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ASTM B117 test time reduction

We would like to know if there is a way to accelerate the ASTM ASTM B117 procedure by increasing temperature or fog created. If so, what would be the corresponding equation to adjust exposure time?

Carlos Agudelo
- Detroit, Michigan
2003

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Hi, Carlos. There are more aggressive accelerated exposure tests like Cass and Korodcote and you'll be much better off choosing another standard test than bastardizing the standard salt spray test.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2003

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This is a commonly-asked question. A couple things to remember, however, if you change the operating conditions of B117, you are not running according to the standard. If your customer or internal specifications state "per B117", you are out of conformance. If B117 is an internal requirement and you have the flexibility to change it, consider using another test method, as mentioned in the previous reply. Without knowing what you are testing, it is impossible to recommend another test. Are you looking for a faster test or a more aggressive test?

There is one test method that is used for flat silver mirrors that indicates you can run 480 hours of 5% salt solution or 300 hrs of 20% salt solution. That applies to that material only and is the result of years of research.

Cynthia L. Meade
- Sylvania, Ohio, USA
2003

astmb633.htmlg85.html" --> is an acidified (acetic) salt spray test that may represent an accelerated form of B117. No, it's not the same but it will reduce your waiting by 50% or maybe more.

Mark Thompson
- Charleston, South Carolina
2003