ASTM B117 Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
The ASTM B117 salt spray (fog) testing protocol is a widely recognized method used to evaluate the resistance of materials and coatings against corrosive environments. This standard test simulates the effects of atmospheric corrosion by exposing specimens to continuous exposure to a neutral salt mist. The test is particularly useful for assessing the durability, longevity, and performance of various materials used in building and infrastructure projects.
During ASTM B117 testing, specimens are placed inside an enclosed chamber where they are continuously exposed to a fine mist composed of 5% sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. This mist simulates the corrosive environment found in coastal areas or industrial settings. The salt spray test is critical for materials and coatings used in sectors such as construction, marine engineering, automotive manufacturing, and aerospace.
The primary focus of ASTM B117 testing is to determine the time it takes for a coating or material to corrode to a specified level under controlled conditions. This provides valuable insights into how well a product will perform in real-world environments where salt exposure is a significant factor. The test can be used for coatings, paints, metals, and even composite materials.
Specimen preparation is an essential part of ASTM B117 testing. Specimens must be cleaned thoroughly to ensure that any impurities are removed before placing them in the chamber. Proper specimen handling ensures accurate results. After cleaning, specimens are dried completely and then placed in the salt spray chamber. The duration of exposure can vary depending on the specific requirements of the project or client.
The ASTM B117 test is conducted under controlled conditions to ensure consistency and accuracy. These include maintaining a temperature between 35°C and 40°C, relative humidity above 95%, and a continuous salt fog spray for at least 24 hours. The standard duration of the test can range from 24 to 168 hours or more, depending on the expected performance of the material under test.
Once testing is complete, specimens are removed from the chamber and inspected for signs of corrosion. Corrosion is typically measured by weight loss, changes in appearance, or other visible signs such as pitting or discoloration. The results of the ASTM B117 test provide valuable information on how well a material or coating can withstand salt spray exposure.
The ASTM B117 standard also includes specific acceptance criteria that must be met for the specimen to pass the test. These criteria vary based on the type of material being tested and the expected level of performance. For instance, coatings used in marine environments may have different standards than those used in industrial settings.
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ASTM B117-23 | This standard specifies the requirements for neutral salt fog testing of nonmetallic and metallic materials. |
| ISO 9227:2006(E) | An international equivalent that provides guidelines for salt spray testing similar to ASTM B117. |
The ASTM B117 test is widely accepted in various industries, including construction, automotive, and aerospace. It helps ensure that materials used in these sectors meet the necessary durability requirements under harsh environmental conditions. By using this standardized testing method, quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams can gain confidence in the performance of their products.
Applied Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ASTM B117-23 | This standard specifies the requirements for neutral salt fog testing of nonmetallic and metallic materials. |
| ISO 9227:2006(E) | An international equivalent that provides guidelines for salt spray testing similar to ASTM B117. |
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The quality of ASTM B117 salt spray (fog) testing is ensured through rigorous adherence to the standard protocol. Our laboratory employs highly skilled technicians and state-of-the-art equipment to conduct these tests accurately and consistently. Regular calibration of instruments, strict control over environmental conditions, and meticulous specimen handling are just a few examples of how we maintain high-quality standards.
Our team of experts ensures that each test is conducted under controlled conditions, adhering strictly to the ASTM B117 specifications. This includes maintaining precise temperature and humidity levels as well as ensuring consistent salt fog spray composition. By doing so, we provide reliable and accurate results that can be trusted by quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams.
We also offer additional services such as accelerated aging tests to simulate long-term exposure under harsh conditions. These complementary tests allow us to provide a comprehensive assessment of material performance in real-world scenarios. Our commitment to quality and reliability is reflected not only in our testing procedures but also in the detailed reports we generate for each test conducted.
International Acceptance and Recognition
- The ASTM B117 standard has been adopted by many countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, and several European nations.
- It is recognized as an international benchmark for evaluating the corrosion resistance of materials used in various industries.
- Many regulatory bodies accept results from ASTM B117 tests when certifying products for use in specific environments or applications.
- The standard is widely used by manufacturers and suppliers who must comply with international standards for product quality and safety.
