# ASTM B117 salt spray corrosion test chambers Test Machine – Complete Guide & Equipment
> **Derui Chamber** is a leading manufacturer of salt spray test chambers compliant with **ASTM B117**, **ISO 9227**, and **CCT standards**. Since 2005, we have supplied corrosion testing equipment to automotive, coating, aerospace, and electronics manufacturers in over 50 countries.
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## What Is ASTM B117 Salt Spray Testing?
**ASTM B117** (Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus) is the globally recognized standard for **Neutral Salt Spray (NSS) corrosion resistance testing**. It defines how to conduct accelerated corrosion tests using a controlled salt fog environment at **35°C ± 2°C** with **5% sodium chloride (NaCl)** solution.
### Why ASTM B117 Matters for Your Business
- **Quality Assurance**: Prove your coatings meet industry corrosion resistance requirements
- **Regulatory Compliance**: Meet automotive OEM specs (GMW, Ford, VW), aerospace standards (ASTM), and international certifications
- **Competitive Edge**: Independent test data builds customer trust and differentiates your products from competitors
- **Cost Savings**: Catch coating defects early before field failures cause recalls or warranty claims
### Key ASTM B117 Test Parameters at a Glance
| Parameter | Requirement |
|-----------|-------------|
| Salt Solution | 5 ± 1% NaCl by mass |
| Solution pH | 6.5 – 7.2 (neutral) |
| Chamber Temperature | 35°C ± 2°C |
| Fog Collection Rate | 1.0 – 2.0 mL/h per 80 cm² |
| Air Pressure at Nozzle | 69 – 172 kPa (10 – 25 psi) |
| Specimen Angle | 15° – 30° from vertical |
| Test Duration | Per product spec (typically 24–1000+ hours) |
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## Derui Salt Spray Test Machine – Product Overview
Derui manufactures a complete range of **salt spray test chambers** designed for **100% ASTM B117 compliance**. Our chambers are used by testing laboratories, automotive suppliers, coating manufacturers, and electronics companies worldwide.
### Product Series
| Model | Chamber Volume | Test Space (W×D×H) | Typical Application |
|-------|---------------|-------------------|---------------------|
| **DR-SSP-90** | 90 L | 450 × 300 × 300 mm | Benchtop R&D, small parts, universities |
| **DR-SSP-270** | 270 L | 900 × 600 × 500 mm | Coating qualification, fasteners, hardware |
| **DR-SSP-450** | 450 L | 1100 × 750 × 550 mm | Automotive Tier-1, mid-size components |
| **DR-SSP-1000** | 1000 L | 1400 × 1000 × 800 mm | Large assemblies, industrial coatings |
| **DR-SSP-WalkIn** | Custom (up to 3000 L) | Custom dimensions | Walk-in / drive-in, OEM labs, heavy industry |
### Standard Features (All Models)
✅ **Precise Temperature Control**: PID-controlled heating system maintains **35°C ± 0.5°C** uniformity across entire workspace
✅ **Patented Atomizing Nozzle**: Glass or PTFE nozzle ensures consistent fog distribution without clogging
✅ **Automated Saturation Tower**: Maintains correct air humidity test chambers and temperature before atomization
✅ **Programmable Touchscreen Controller**: 7-inch HMI with preset test profiles, real-time data logging, and alarm management
✅ **Corrosion-Resistant Construction**: PVC chamber liner, FRP exterior, stainless steel racks
✅ **Safety Systems**: Over-temperature protection, low water level alarm, leakage sensor
✅ **Data Logging**: USB export of temperature, time, and alarm records for audit trails
### Optional Upgrades
| Option | Description | Benefit |
|--------|-------------|---------|
| **CCT Module** | Cyclic Corrosion Testing (dry/humid/condensation cycles) | Simulates real-world conditions beyond NSS |
| **pH Auto-Monitoring** | Automatic pH measurement and adjustment system | Ensures continuous compliance without manual checks |
| **Air Dryer System** | Compressed air dehumidification unit | Stable fog quality regardless of ambient humidity |
| **Glass Roof** | Transparent acrylic/PVC roof cover | Visual monitoring during test without opening door |
| **Multi-Rack System** | Additional specimen racks for higher throughput | Test more samples per run |
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## How to Perform an ASTM B117 Salt Spray Test – Step-by-Step
### Step 1: Prepare the Salt Solution
1. Use **high-purity sodium chloride (NaCl)** — analytical grade, no anti-caking agents
2. Mix **5% by mass** with **distilled or deionized water** (total dissolved solids < 200 ppm)
3. Adjust pH to **6.5 – 7.2** using dilute NaOH or HCl if needed
4. Measure and record salinity and pH before each test
### Step 2: Condition the Chamber
1. Fill reservoir with prepared solution
2. Set temperature to **35°C**
3. Run chamber empty for **30–60 minutes** (warm-up cycle)
4. Verify temperature stability and fog rate using collection funnels
### Step 3: Prepare Specimens
1. Clean specimens to remove oil, dust test chambers, and fingerprints (solvent clean or alkaline wash)
2. Mask edges/areas not under evaluation using approved tape or lacquer
3. Label each specimen with corrosion-resistant ID tags
4. Record initial condition (photos, weight, thickness as required)
### Step 4: Load and Position Samples
1. Mount panels at **15°–30° angle** from vertical, facing fog source
2. Ensure no shadowing between specimens
3. Use only **non-corroding supports** (plastic, glass, or PVC racks)
4. Do not overload — maintain space for uniform fog circulation
### Step 5: Run the Test
1. Start the programmed test cycle
2. Monitor temperature, fog rate, and alarms throughout
3. Log any interruptions (door openings, solution refills)
4. At completion, remove, rinse, dry, and evaluate specimens per relevant standard
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## ASTM B117 vs ISO 9227 – Which Standard Should You Use?
Both standards define Neutral Salt Spray (NSS) testing with nearly identical parameters. The key differences are regional and procedural:
| Aspect | ASTM B117 | ISO 9227 |
|--------|-----------|----------|
| Primary Region | North America, Asia (US customers) | Europe, Global OEMs, Automotive |
| Salt Purity | Flexible (low impurities specified) | Stricter impurity limits |
| Documentation | ASTM-style report | ISO-style report (more formal) |
| Calibration | Periodic checks | More prescriptive calibration protocol |
| Common Users | General industrial, fasteners, hardware | European automotive, construction, wind energy |
**Recommendation**: If you supply to both US and European markets, choose a salt spray chamber that meets **both** ASTM B117 and ISO 9227 requirements. All Derui chambers are calibrated for dual-standard compliance.
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## Common Mistakes That Invalidate ASTM B117 Test Results
Avoid these errors that can compromise your test data:
❌ **Using tap water instead of distilled/deionized water** → mineral deposits skew results
❌ **Incorrect funnel placement** → fog collection measurement becomes meaningless
❌ **Overloading the chamber** → poor fog distribution causes inconsistent exposure
❌ **Using metal specimen supports** → galvanic contamination ruins test validity
❌ **Ignoring pH drift** → acidic or alkaline solution attacks coating incorrectly
❌ **Opening door frequently during long tests** → temperature/fog instability
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## Applications of Salt Spray Test Chambers
Derui salt spray machines serve diverse industries worldwide:
| Industry | Typical Test Standards | What They Test |
|----------|----------------------|----------------|
| **Automotive** | GMW 14872, VW PV 1210, Ford CETP 00.00-L-467 | Paint systems, fasteners, chassis components |
| **Coating & Plating** | ASTM B117, ISO 9227, JIS Z 2371 | Powder coat, e-coat, zinc plating, anodizing |
| **Aerospace** | ASTM B117, ASTM G85, NACE TM0304 | Aluminum alloys, cadmium plating, fasteners |
| **Electronics** | IEC 60068-2-11, MIL-STD-810 | PCB conformal coating, enclosures, connectors |
| **Construction** | ISO 9227, AAMA 2023 | Window frames, structural steel, fasteners |
| **Marine Hardware** | ASTM B117, ASTM G85-A5 | Ship fittings, offshore platform hardware |
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## Why Choose Derui for Your Salt Spray Test Equipment?
Since 2005, Derui has been a trusted manufacturer of environmental test chambers. Here's what sets us apart:
🏭 **20+ Years Experience** — Deep expertise in corrosion testing equipment design and manufacturing
🌍 **Global Service Network** — After-sales support in 50+ countries with local technicians available
📋 **Full Compliance Documentation** — Calibration certificates, IQ/OQ protocols, and validation reports included
⚙️ **Custom Solutions** — Custom sizes, special configurations, and OEM branding options available
💰 **Factory-Direct Pricing** — No middlemen means better value for your budget
🔧 **Lifetime Technical Support** — Free consultation on test methods, chamber operation, and troubleshooting
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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### Q: How long does an ASTM B117 salt spray test typically take?
**A:** It depends on your product specification. Common durations:
- Decorative coatings: **24–96 hours**
- Zinc plating / basic protection: **96–240 hours**
- High-performance coatings: **480–1000+ hours**
The standard itself does not specify duration — this comes from your coating specification or customer requirement.
### Q: Can one salt spray chamber run both ASTM B117 and ISO 9227?
**A:** Yes. All Derui salt spray chambers are designed to meet both standards' requirements since the core parameters (5% NaCl, 35°C, fog rate) are essentially identical. We provide separate calibration certificates and test templates for each standard.
### Q: What's the difference between NSS, AASS, and CASS tests?
**A:**
- **NSS (Neutral Salt Spray)**: 5% NaCl, pH 6.5–7.2 — the most common baseline test (ASTM B117)
- **AASS (Acetic Acid Salt Spray)**: Adds acetic acid to lower pH to 3.1–3.3 — more aggressive (ASTM G85 A1)
- **CASS (Copper-Acetic Acid Salt Spray)**: Adds CuCl₂ + acetic acid, pH 3.0–3.1 — highly aggressive for premium coatings (ASTM B368)
Derui chambers support all three test types with optional upgrades.
### Q: How do I choose the right chamber size?
**A:** Consider:
1. **Maximum specimen dimensions** — ensure your largest part fits with proper spacing
2. **Throughput needs** — how many samples per batch?
3. **Lab space constraints** — floor area and ceiling height
4. **Future growth plan** — allow 20-30% capacity buffer
Contact our engineers for free sizing consultation.
### Q: What maintenance does a salt spray chamber require?
**A:** Routine maintenance includes:
- Daily: Check solution level and nozzle spray pattern
- Weekly: Clean collection funnels, verify pH
- Monthly: Inspect seals/gaskets, calibrate sensors
- Annually: Full professional service (we offer annual contracts)
### Q: Do you offer installation and training?
**A:** Yes. Every Derui salt spray chamber includes:
- On-site installation by certified technician
- Operator training (test setup, execution, basic troubleshooting)
- Calibration certificate delivery
- 12-month warranty with extended warranty options
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## Get Your Salt Spray Test Machine Quote Today
Ready to upgrade your corrosion testing capability? Contact our team for a customized proposal:
📧 **Email**: info@deruitestchamber.com
📞 **Phone/WhatsApp**: [Your contact number]
🌐 **Website**: www.deruitestchamber.com
📍 **Factory Visit**: Welcome to our manufacturing facility in China — we offer virtual factory tours too!
**[Request a Quote]** — Tell us your test requirements, and we'll recommend the best model within 24 hours.
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*Last updated: May 2026 | Derui Environmental Test Chamber Manufacturer | ISO 9001 Certified*
