Downloaded from https://www.everyspec.com MIL-STD-81OD 19 July 1983 0 d. Test variaU9.oiz. Before conducting this test, determine any required variations of the test procedure. The choices for varying the test procedure are primarily limited to the test duration, cycling of exposure and drying periods, salt concentration, and test item configuration, as outlined in I-3.2. . I-3.1 fluaiseof teSt cn’ocedure. Procedure I should be used only as a screening test. Its primary value lies in testing ‘coatingsand finishes on materiel.
In a relatively short period of time, the procedure can be used to locate potential problem areas, quality control deficiencies, design flaws, etc., that result from exposure to a salt atmosphere. . I-3.2 ~ a. &ilt conc~. Concentrations exceeding 20% are not uncommon, but a 5 ~ 1% solution is recommended, since this has proven to have the most significant effect on material. b. ~. The configuration of the test item during the exposure period of the salt fog test is an important factor in determining the effect of the environment on the test item. Unless otherwise directed, the teat item shall be configured as it would be during its storage, shipment, or use.
The following represent the most likely configurations that military equipment would assume when exposed to salt fog: (1) In a shipping/storagecontainer or transit case. (2) Outside of its shipping/storage container but provided with an effective environmental control system that partly excludee the salt fog environment. (3) Outside of its shipping/storagecontainer and set up in its , normal operating mode. (4) Modified with kits for special application or to compensate for ating components that are normally present but are not used for this specific test. .- c. ~. A minimum exposure period of Q8 hours is recommended, followed by a 48-hour drying period.
The exposure period may be lengthened to provide a higher degree of confidence in the ability of the materials involved to withstand a corrosive environment. d. QK.UM. An alternative to the Continwus salt fOg expOsure periOd iS : to subject the test item to alternating 24-hour periods of salt fog exposure and standard ambient (drying) conditions for a minimum of four 24-hour periods. This alternative provides more damage potential than does the continuous exposure. 509.2-3 METHOD 509,2 : 19 July 1983