Chemical analysis and corrosion Salt spray chamber

The salt spray chamber is a tool used to test the corrosion resistance of components. In particular, this test produces a corrosive attack on coated components.

These tests enable us to learn the corrosion resistance of materials or coatings, to check whether the sample needs a surface coating or to determine whether the coating process is compliant.

The instrumentation is provided by a closed test chamber, inside which the salt solution (5% sodium chloride solution) is atomized by means of a nozzle. This creates a corrosive environment of dense salt spray inside the chamber, thus subjecting the present samples to highly corrosive conditions.

The test shall:

• analyse and compare the materials and coatings produced with different technologies, thicknesses and porosity
• Check whether the sample conforms to and follows certain quality specifications
• Gain information on its resistance to corrosion in this type of environment
• Place the components in a chamber where the test salt solution (5% NaCl) is sprayed at a temperature of 35°C.

The result is a mist which can recreate a highly corrosive environment.

Once the test is completed, the degree of corrosion of the component is evaluated and documented. Intermediate checks may be carried out to check the progress of corrosion during the test.

Salt spray chamber: test duration

The duration of the salt spray test depends on how long it takes for the corrosion to occur, so the result may vary depending on the type of material or coating and may last a few hours or even longer. These tests make it possible to know the level of corrosion resistance of materials or coatings and thus check whether the material needs a surface coating or whether the process used for applying the coating is compliant or not.

Corrosion tests are carried out according to the international standards UNI EN ISO 9227 and ASTM B117.