ASTM B117 outlines the apparatus, method, and conditions for the preparation and maintenance of a salt spray (fog) environment for corrosion testing. In industry, this is used to assess the corrosion resistance of metals, metal coatings, and surface-treated products. The test subjects are exposed to a continuous sodium chloride solution and fog within a controlled corrosion chamber. ASTM B117 helps compare materials, measure coating performance, and support quality control programs for manufacturers.
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ASTM B117 Introduction
ASTM B117 (Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus) is a corrosive salt-fog environment used to assess the corrosion resistance of protective coatings and metal materials. The standard measures and conditions for creating a corrosive salt-fog environment where the corrosive medium contains dissolved salts. It evaluates protective coatings, paints, and surface treatments by exposing them to elevated corrosive conditions. ASTM B117 provides a way for researchers and good laboratories to test the robustness of materials and discover potential corrosion-related failures before access to providers.
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Testing Procedures and Requirements
Technicians prepare and clean test specimens. Then set the specimens at the desired angle in a salt spray cabinet. The chamber is continuously atomized to form a dense salt fog environment from a sodium chloride solution. Technicians examine the specimens after the determined exposure time for signs of corrosion, blistering, rusting, and/or coating degradation.
Other ASTM standards mentioned in this practice include ASTM G85, E691, D1193, D1654, B368, D609, and E70.
Salt Solution Preparation
Technicians prepare a salt solution by dissolving 5 ± 1% sodium chloride in deionized/distilled water. Before atomization, they set the pH of the salt layer to 6.5-7.2.
Chamber Setup Verification
Operators confirm that the temperature of the salt spray chamber is within limits (35 ± 2 °C/95 ± 3 °F) and ensure that all nozzles, aerators, and chain equipment are operating.
Specimen Placement
Technicians position specimens between 15 and 30° off vertical. Keep specimens from touching and prevent condensation.
Salt Fog Exposure
The operators continuously stir the salt solution to create a dense salt fog in the entire chamber. Provide continuous exposure for the time specified in a product specification or testing program.
ASTM B117 Salt Spray Chamber
Scope of ASTM B117 Test Standard
Sets up a salt spray corrosion test environment.
Uses appropriate methods to test metals and coated metals.
Compares and contrasts the corrosion resistance properties of testing materials.
Assists in coating development and quality control.
Delivers a controlled, accelerated corrosion environment.
Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen Details
Technicians test metals, metal coatings, painted surfaces, conversion coatings, electroplated materials, anodized products, and other corrosion-resistant surface treatments. The specimens are the final product or coating system and are handled to eliminate any defects, contamination, and handling damage that are part of the coating system evaluation.
Specimen Preparation
The operator cleans the specimens (as per applicable product specifications) without changing the surface finish/coating properties. They locate and record each specimen, mask when needed, and create any intentional scribe marks or defects defined in the governing test standard before exposure.
Specimen Dimensions
Laboratory test specimens of a wide variety of sizes and shapes are provided; they fit within the chamber and can be fogged properly. The operator places the specimens at specific angles (between 15° and 30° off vertical) and maintains sufficient separation between specimens to avoid any “drip” or “shield” effect during the test.
Use of ASTM B117
Determines the ability of coatings to withstand corrosion.
Compares protective finishes and treatments.
Provides support in coating development and enhancement.
Assist in quality control and acceptance testing.
Why is Salt Spray Testing Important?
Salt spray testing offers a quick and standardized approach for comparing the corrosion resistance of materials and coatings. It enables manufacturers to pinpoint the problems before products are brought into service.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting
Technicians experience problems such as faulty chamber calibration, fluctuating fog collection rates, contaminated salt solution, and specimen placement issues. These affect the repeatability of the tests. To ensure good results, the following is routine for the chamber: maintenance, solution testing, and compliance with ASTM standards.
Testing Technique, Process, and Data Collection
Technicians first prepare representative specimens and put them in the chamber. Samples were left in the sun for specified periods, depending on use. The technician visually inspects samples and records corrosion loss, lack of coating, blistering, rust formation, and other defects after promotion.
Analysis Results and Interpretation
ASTM B117 presents test results as hours of exposure (h), as a percentage of corroded surface area, or as a coating performance rating based on applicable specifications. Longer corrosion-free exposure times generally indicate better corrosion resistance. Engineers rely on these results to compare coatings, assess protective treatments for products, and aid product qualification.
Factors to Consider for ASTM B117 Testing
Speed: Accelerated corrosion testing is faster than natural weathering exposure.
Expertise: Professional technicians ensure the chamber operates properly and accurately evaluate the results.
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FAQ's
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The turnaround time for astm b117 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
Where can I get the astm b117 tested?
You can share your astm b117 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm b117 test to various testing techniques.
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