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Salt Spray Problems

I am experiencing trouble passing salt spray with per MIL-A-8625 / MIL-PRF-8625 [on DLA] (type II) as well as MIL-C-5541. My baths and processes are maintained/analyzed on a weekly basis and I believe the process is sufficient to meet the above referenced specs. I was given some information that the quality of my test panels is likely the source of my problem(s). Is this a broadly experienced situation? How should the test panels be prepared (i.e. I buy sheets of Aluminum and have them cut to size) Can high quality, pre-prepared test panels be purchased (if so, where from)?

Jon Scalise
- New Britain, Connecticut, USA
2002

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2002

Yep, this would seem to be a problem for many people, you are not alone! My advise is to spend some time on this site and check out some of the current postings and the archived postings on this subject, the help and advise given will answer many of your questions (both those you have asked and those you have yet to think up !)

Good luck,

Rich Mosley
- UK

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I'm not familiar with military specs for salt spray testing, but I think any corrosion testing needs some amount of daily monitoring. Conditions in the salt fog chamber can go out of control within a day very easily, especially fog rate.

However, your biggest problem is likely to be the quality of your test panels. Find the spec they need to meet and make sure your supplier is following those guidelines.

Tim Neveau
Rochester Hills, Michigan
2002