Corrosion is a natural process wherein metallic objects may suffer corrosion based on their core properties when exposed to environmental factors. It can cause significant damage to the material and its surroundings. Therefore corrosion testing is essential to determine the resistance properties of the sample to modify or change the material accordingly. The process helps to enhance the product's durability, brand image, and recurring profits. A quality product helps strengthen brand loyalty and improves sales significantly.

Salt spray testing is one of the most preferred methods in the industry to test material against corrosion. Most metal objects are often used in fixtures, so they must last longer without causing any damage to the surroundings. Salt spray testing exposes the material to a highly corrosive environment for a brief period, helps define the quality, and defines preventive measures like coating, paint, etc., to enhance the product's durability.

What is Salt Spray Testing?

Salt spray testing is an effective testing method that exposes the sample to a standardized sodium chloride solution ranging from 5-15 percent concentration based on the manufacturer's requirements. Sodium chloride is a robust corrosion-causing agent. Various advanced salt spray testing instruments allow users to modify humidity and temperature to create a customized testing environment.

Samples are often checked regularly to observe coating degradation and signs of corrosion set in time. Testers usually record any milestone, such as the material's white or red rust visibility. The highly saline environment is an effective way to test corrosion resistance over an extended period. The test applies sea mist to painted automotive, military, or marine equipment. With global forms of accredits, the test results are widely accepted in the industry.

How To Conduct Salt Spray Test?

Most salt spray testing instruments are user-friendly and easy to get started with. Following are the steps involved when a User or Tester intends to determine the corrosive properties of a specimen.

Step 1: Place the sample inside the salt spray chamber and seal the ends.
Step 2: Start the test by applying salt water solution over the sample via nozzles. The saltwater fog is used to imitate a corrosive environment.
Step 3: The sample is observed for a predefined period. The testing period can range from anywhere between 24 hours to 1,000 hours. The timeline depends on the material and the manufacturer's requirements.
Step 4: The tester continuously monitors the sample to record changes. The more resistant a sample is, the longer it takes for signs of oxide to be visible.
Step 5: The salt spray test results can help manufacturers determine the resilience and durability of the sample.

How To Choose The Right Instrument?

Invest in a salt spray chamber designed explicitly in compliance with globally acclaimed corrosion resistance standards such as ASTM B117. Ensure the inner chamber is made of high-quality fiber-reinforced material and glass wool insulation. The corrosion testing instrument by Pacorr is empowered with multiple advanced features such as an air saturater, water level indicator, PID temperature controller, fog collection funnel, etc. Moreover, it has a microprocessor-based digital control system that conveniently monitors test factors. Pacorr has excellent after-sales services that provide proper assistance to the users to utilize the instrument and optime the process with ease.