IEC 60068-2-11:2021
(Main)Environmental testing - Part 2-11: Tests - Test Ka: Salt mist
Environmental testing - Part 2-11: Tests - Test Ka: Salt mist
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 specifies a test method for assessing the corrosion resistance of electrotechnical products components, equipment and materials in a salt mist environment. Its objective is to verify that the comparative quality of a metallic material, with or without corrosion protection, is maintained when exposed to salt mist.
This test method is useful for evaluating the quality and the uniformity of coatings applied to protect metals against corrosion. It is particularly useful for detecting discontinuities, such as pores and other defects, in certain metallic, organic, anodic oxide and conversion coatings.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 1981. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) the preparation of the salt solution has been modified;
b) the temperature of the solution for measuring pH has been modified;
c) the atomizing pressure and water temperature of the saturation tower have been added and are given in Table 1;
d) test report details have been modified;
e) examples of typical test apparatus have been added and are given in Annex A;
f) a method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus has been added and is given in Annex B;
g) a bibliography has been added.
Essais d’environnement - Partie 2-11: Essais - Essai Ka: Brouillard salin
L'IEC 60068-2-11:2021 spécifie une méthode d'évaluation de la résistance des composants, équipements et matériaux des produits électrotechniques à la corrosion dans un environnement de brouillard salin. Il s'agit de vérifier que la qualité comparative d'un matériau métallique, avec ou sans protection contre la corrosion, est maintenue dans un brouillard salin.
Cette méthode d'essai est utile pour évaluer la qualité et l'uniformité des revêtements appliqués afin de protéger les métaux contre la corrosion. Elle est particulièrement utile pour détecter les discontinuités (pores et autres défauts, par exemple) dans certains revêtements métalliques, organiques, d'oxyde anodique et de conversion.
Cette quatrième édition annule et remplace la troisième édition parue en 1981. Cette édition constitue une révision technique.
Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à l'édition précédente:
a) la préparation de la solution saline a été modifiée;
b) la température de la solution de mesure du pH a été modifiée;
c) la pression d'injection et la température de l'eau de la colonne de saturation ont été ajoutées et sont données dans le Tableau 1;
d) les détails du rapport d'essai ont été modifiés;
e) les figures représentant l'appareillage d'essai type ont été ajoutées et sont données à l’Annexe A;
f) la méthode d'évaluation de la corrosivité de l'appareillage a été ajoutée et est donnée à l’Annexe B;
g) la bibliographie a été ajoutée.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 02-Mar-2021
- Technical Committee
- TC 104 - Environmental conditions, classification and methods of test
- Drafting Committee
- MT 16 - TC 104/MT 16
- Current Stage
- PPUB - Publication issued
- Start Date
- 26-Mar-2021
- Completion Date
- 03-Mar-2021
Relations
- Effective Date
- 05-Sep-2023
Overview
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies a test method for assessing the corrosion resistance of electrotechnical products, components, equipment, and materials exposed to a salt mist environment. Often referred to as Test Ka: Salt mist, this standard is crucial for verifying that metallic materials retain their quality, whether or not corrosion protection is applied, when subjected to aggressive saline conditions.
This fourth edition, which replaces the 1981 version, introduces significant technical updates to the preparation of the salt solution, measurement conditions, test apparatus specifications, and reporting requirements. It also includes new annexes with examples of apparatus and methods for evaluating test chamber corrosivity.
Key Topics
Corrosion Resistance Testing
The core objective is to evaluate how materials and coatings withstand corrosion caused by salt-laden atmospheres. This testing is essential for metals and protective coatings such as organic layers, anodic oxide, and conversion coatings.Salt Mist Environment Simulation
The test generates a controlled salt mist or salt spray to simulate environmental conditions that accelerate corrosion processes. Conditions such as atomizing pressure, saturation tower temperature, and salt solution pH are strictly regulated.Salt Solution Preparation and Handling
The salt solution formulation and pH adjustment procedures have been updated for accuracy and reproducibility. Filtration and reuse protocols ensure that test conditions remain consistent across repeated tests.Test Apparatus and Operating Conditions
Detailed specifications for the test chamber, atomizer, air supply, and specimen arrangement ensure standardized testing. Annex A provides examples of typical apparatus setups, while Annex B introduces methods to assess the corrosivity of the testing environment itself, ensuring reliability of results.Testing Process and Duration
The standard defines pre-conditioning, test duration, recovery period, and final evaluation protocols. Specimens are typically tested in the non-energized state to focus on corrosion effects.Documentation and Reporting
The updated edition stipulates comprehensive test reporting requirements to ensure transparency and repeatability, including details of specimen conditions, test parameters, and observed results.
Applications
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 is widely used by manufacturers, testing laboratories, and quality assurance teams in industries where electrotechnical components and equipment are exposed to salty environments. Typical applications include:
Electrotechnical Manufacturing
Assessing the durability of metallic parts and protective coatings in electrical devices, connectors, switches, and housings.Coating Quality Evaluation
Detecting pores, discontinuities, and defects in anticorrosive coatings applied to metals to ensure protection integrity before product deployment.Material Comparison
Comparing corrosion resistance between different metallic materials or protective finishes to guide materials selection and design.Product Qualification and Certification
Verifying compliance with environmental and corrosion resistance requirements specified in product standards or customer specifications.Research and Development
Accelerated aging tests to evaluate new materials, coatings, or protective techniques under simulated harsh marine or industrial environments.
Related Standards
- IEC 60068-1 – Environmental testing – General guidance on environmental testing methods applicable across electrotechnical products.
- IEC 60068-2-52 – Environmental testing – Test Kb: Salt mist, which offers more realistic test conditions and assessment options for individual equipment or components.
- ISO 9227 – Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres – Salt spray tests, complementary to IEC 60068-2-11 procedures and useful for cross-referencing in corrosion testing.
Practical Value
By following IEC 60068-2-11:2021 standards, organizations can confidently assess the corrosion resistance of electrical and electronic equipment exposed to salt spray atmospheres. This helps in:
- Preventing premature failures and costly recalls.
- Enhancing product durability and customer satisfaction.
- Ensuring compliance with international regulatory and quality requirements.
- Standardizing testing methods globally for consistent and comparable results.
Adopting this standard supports innovation and reliability in designing corrosion-resistant electrotechnical products that operate effectively in challenging environments such as coastal, marine, and industrial locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 is a standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its full title is "Environmental testing - Part 2-11: Tests - Test Ka: Salt mist". This standard covers: IEC 60068-2-11:2021 specifies a test method for assessing the corrosion resistance of electrotechnical products components, equipment and materials in a salt mist environment. Its objective is to verify that the comparative quality of a metallic material, with or without corrosion protection, is maintained when exposed to salt mist. This test method is useful for evaluating the quality and the uniformity of coatings applied to protect metals against corrosion. It is particularly useful for detecting discontinuities, such as pores and other defects, in certain metallic, organic, anodic oxide and conversion coatings. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 1981. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) the preparation of the salt solution has been modified; b) the temperature of the solution for measuring pH has been modified; c) the atomizing pressure and water temperature of the saturation tower have been added and are given in Table 1; d) test report details have been modified; e) examples of typical test apparatus have been added and are given in Annex A; f) a method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus has been added and is given in Annex B; g) a bibliography has been added.
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 specifies a test method for assessing the corrosion resistance of electrotechnical products components, equipment and materials in a salt mist environment. Its objective is to verify that the comparative quality of a metallic material, with or without corrosion protection, is maintained when exposed to salt mist. This test method is useful for evaluating the quality and the uniformity of coatings applied to protect metals against corrosion. It is particularly useful for detecting discontinuities, such as pores and other defects, in certain metallic, organic, anodic oxide and conversion coatings. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 1981. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) the preparation of the salt solution has been modified; b) the temperature of the solution for measuring pH has been modified; c) the atomizing pressure and water temperature of the saturation tower have been added and are given in Table 1; d) test report details have been modified; e) examples of typical test apparatus have been added and are given in Annex A; f) a method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus has been added and is given in Annex B; g) a bibliography has been added.
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 19.040 - Environmental testing. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
IEC 60068-2-11:2021 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to IEC 60068-2-11:1981/COR1:1999. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
You can purchase IEC 60068-2-11:2021 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of IEC standards.
Standards Content (Sample)
IEC 60068-2-11 ®
Edition 4.0 2021-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Environmental testing –
Part 2-11: Tests – Test Ka: Salt mist
Essais d’environnement –
Partie 2-11: Essais – Essai Ka: Brouillard salin
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IEC 60068-2-11 ®
Edition 4.0 2021-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Environmental testing –
Part 2-11: Tests – Test Ka: Salt mist
Essais d’environnement –
Partie 2-11: Essais – Essai Ka: Brouillard salin
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 19.040 ISBN 978-2-8322-9476-5
– 2 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
INTRODUCTION . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 General . 6
5 Salt solution . 7
5.1 Preparation of salt solution . 7
5.2 pH adjustment . 7
5.3 Filtration . 7
5.4 Re-use . 7
6 Test apparatus . 7
6.1 Test chamber . 7
6.2 Atomizer(s) . 8
6.3 Air supply . 8
6.4 Collecting devices . 9
6.5 Method for evaluating chamber corrosivity . 9
7 Test specimens . 9
8 Initial measurements . 9
9 Pre-conditioning . 9
10 Arrangement of the test specimens . 9
11 Operating conditions . 10
12 Duration of test . 11
13 Recovery (at the end of testing) . 11
14 Final measurements . 11
15 Information to be given in the relevant specification . 11
16 Test report . 12
Annex A (informative) Examples of test apparatus for salt mist test . 13
Annex B (informative) Method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus . 15
B.1 General . 15
B.2 Reference specimens . 15
B.3 Arrangement of the reference specimens . 15
B.4 Duration of test . 16
B.5 Determination of mass loss (mass per area) . 16
B.6 Satisfactory performance of apparatus . 16
Bibliography . 17
Figure A.1 – Example of test apparatus for salt mist test . 13
Figure A.2 – Example of test apparatus for salt mist test . 14
Table 1 – Suggested values for the temperature of the hot water in the saturation tower . 8
Table 2 – Operating conditions . 10
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING –
Part 2-11: Tests – Test Ka: Salt mist
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
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patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
IEC 60068-2-11 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 104: Environmental conditions,
classification and methods of test. It is an International Standard.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 1981. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) the preparation of the salt solution has been modified;
b) the temperature of the solution for measuring pH has been modified;
c) the atomizing pressure and water temperature of the saturation tower have been added
and are given in Table 1;
d) test report details have been modified;
e) examples of typical test apparatus have been added and are given in Annex A;
– 4 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
f) a method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus has been added and is given in
Annex B;
g) a bibliography has been added.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
104/888/FDIS 104/892/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement,
available at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by
IEC are described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/standardsdev/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 60068 series, published under the general title Environmental
testing, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
INTRODUCTION
The object of the test specified in this document is to compare the resistance of
electrotechnical equipment to deterioration from salt mist.
It is useful for evaluating the quality and uniformity of protective coatings.
The relationship between the deterioration provided by this test and long-term exposure of
electrotechnical equipment to salt laden atmospheres cannot be readily determined.
Consequently, the test cannot be reliably used to quantify the long-term aging of
electrotechnical equipment. However, as the test commonly accelerates deterioration from
salt mist, it does provide a useful means of comparing resistance of electrotechnical
equipment to deterioration from salt laden atmospheres.
– 6 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING –
Part 2-11: Tests – Test Ka: Salt mist
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60068 specifies a test method for assessing the corrosion resistance of
electrotechnical products components, equipment and materials in a salt mist environment. Its
objective is to verify that the comparative quality of a metallic material, with or without
corrosion protection, is maintained when exposed to salt mist.
This test method is useful for evaluating the quality and the uniformity of coatings applied to
protect metals against corrosion. It is particularly useful for detecting discontinuities, such as
pores and other defects, in certain metallic, organic, anodic oxide and conversion coatings.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their
content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.
IEC 60068-1, Environmental testing – Part 1: General and guidance
3 Terms and definitions
No terms and definitions are listed in this document.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
4 General
WARNING – This document can involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment. This
document does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its
use. It is the responsibility of the user of this document to establish appropriate safety and
health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
For equipment and components, Test Kb (IEC 60068-2-52) is considered to provide more
realistic conditions and to provide means of assessment of individual items. If, however, for
particular circumstances, the relevant specification requires this test (Ka) to be applied to
individual specimens for qualification purposes, then the specimens should be tested as part
of the overall assembly or equipment in which they are to be used and be completed with any
protection devices (cases, covers, shields, etc.), as in practice.
NOTE 1 "Salt mist" is also called "salt spray".
NOTE 2 The test specimen(s) is typically not energized during the test.
5 Salt solution
5.1 Preparation of salt solution
Dissolve a sufficient mass of sodium chloride in distilled or deionized water with a conductivity
not higher than 20 µS/cm at 25 °C ± 2 K to produce a concentration of 50 g/l ± 5 g/l. The
sodium chloride concentration of the sprayed solution collected shall be 50 g/l ± 5 g/l. The
specific gravity range for a 50 g/l ± 5 g/l solution is 1,029 to 1,036 at 25 °C.
The sodium chloride shall not contain a mass fraction of the heavy metals copper (Cu), nickel
(Ni) and lead (Pb) in total more than 0,005 %. It shall not contain a mass fraction of sodium
iodide more than 0,1 % and a mass fraction of total impurities more than 0,5 %, calculated for
dry salt.
NOTE Sodium chloride with anti-caking agents can act as corrosion inhibitors or accelerators. A useful sodium
chloride salt grade is a grade named Ph. Eur/USP or JIS, ACS.
5.2 pH adjustment
If necessary, adjust the pH of the salt solution so that the pH of the sprayed solution collected
within the test chamber is 6,5 to 7,2 at 25 °C ± 2 K. Check the pH using electrometric
measurement. Measurements of pH shall be done using electrodes suitable for measuring in
weakly buffered sodium chloride solution in deionized water.
Make any necessary corrections by adding hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide or sodium
bicarbonate solution of analytical grade.
WARNING – Hydrochloric acid (CAS no. 7647-01-0) solution is toxic, corrosive, irritating and
very toxic to aquatic life. Handling of hydrochloric acid solution shall be restricted to skilled
personnel or conducted under their control. Care shall be taken in the disposal of this solution.
WARNING – Sodium hydroxide (CAS no. 1310-73-2) solution is toxic, corrosive and irritating.
Handling of sodium hydroxide solution shall be restricted to skilled personnel or conducted
under their control. Care shall be taken in the disposal of this solution.
NOTE Possible changes in pH can result from loss of carbon dioxide in the solution when it is sprayed. Such
changes can be avoided by reducing the carbon dioxide content of the solution by, for example, heating it to a
temperature above 35 °C before it is placed in the apparatus, or by making the solution using freshly boiled water.
The pH shall be measured when preparing each new batch of solution.
5.3 Filtration
If necessary, filter the solution before placing it in the reservoir of the apparatus, to remove
any solid matter which might block the apertures of the spraying device.
5.4 Re-use
The sprayed solution shall not be re-used.
6 Test apparatus
6.1 Test chamber
The chamber for this test shall be constructed of such materials that will not influence the
corrosive effects of the salt mist.
– 8 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
The detailed construction of the chamber, including the method of producing the mist, is
provided as follows:
a) The operating conditions in the chamber shall be within the limits specified (see
Clause 11).
b) The chamber shall have sufficient volume and performance that the introduction of test
specimens will not detrimentally affect the control of the conditions.
c) The solution shall not be sprayed directly onto test specimens but rather spread
throughout the test chamber so that it falls naturally down to them.
d) The upper parts of the chamber shall be designed so that drops of sprayed solution
formed on its surface do not fall on the test specimens being tested.
e) The chamber shall be properly vented to prevent pressure build-up and allow uniform
distribution of salt mist. The discharge end of the vent shall be protected from strong air
currents which can have a negative effect to the air flow.
f) The test temperature shall be measured at least 100 mm from walls and radiant heat
sources.
NOTE Examples of test apparatus are shown in Annex A (see Figure A.1 and Figure A.2).
6.2 Atomizer(s)
The atomizer(s) used shall be of such a design and construction as to produce a finely divided,
wet, dense mist. The atomizer(s) shall be made of material that is non-reactive to the salt
solution.
6.3 Air supply
The compressed air entering the atomizer(s) shall be essentially free from all impurities, such
as oil and dust.
Means shall be provided to humidify and warm the compressed air as required to meet the
operating conditions. The atomizing pressure shall be at an overpressure of 70 kPa to
170 kPa. The pressure is typically 98 kPa ± 10 kPa but can vary depending on the type of test
chamber and atomizer used. The appropriate temperature depends on the pressure used and
on the type of atomizer. Temperature, pressure or humidification, or a combination thereof,
shall be adjusted so that the rate of collection of the spray in the chamber and the
concentration of the collected spray are kept within the specified limits (see Clause 11). A
commonly used humidifier is the saturation tower, where temperature and pressure are
controllable. Table 1 gives suggested values on temperature and pressure combinations for
the saturation tower. Distilled or deionized water with a conductivity not higher than 20 μS/cm
at 25 °C ± 2 K shall be used for humidification of spray air.
Table 1 – Suggested values for the temperature of the hot water in the saturation tower
Atomizing overpressure Suggested values for the temperature of the hot water in
the saturation tower when performing the salt mist test
kPa °C
70 45
84 46
98 48
112 49
126 50
140 52
160 53
170 54
6.4 Collecting devices
At least two collecting devices shall be used to check the homogeneity of the spraying of the
chamber. A collecting device shall consist of a collecting funnel which has a diameter of
100 mm ± 2 mm, corresponding to a collecting area of approximately 80 cm . The funnel
should be made of chemically inert material and its stem inserted into a suitable measuring
container.
6.5 Method for evaluating chamber corrosivity
To check the reproducibility of the test results, the corrosivity of the apparatus shall be
verified at regular intervals. A suitable method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus by
use of reference specimens is described in Annex B.
7 Test specimens
The number and type of test specimens, their shape and their dimensions shall be selected in
accordance with the relevant specification. When not specified, these parameters shall be
mutually agreed between the interested parties.
8 Initial measurements
The test specimens shall be visually examined and, if necessary, electrically and
mechanically checked as required by the relevant specification.
NOTE Pre-test photographs of condition are useful when deciding if there has been degradation. Alternatively,
retaining a second untested sample is useful for comparison purposes.
9 Pre-conditioning
The relevant specification shall specify the cleaning method to be applied immediately before
the test. It shall also state whether or not to remove any temporary protective coating.
The cleaning method used shall not interfere with the effect of the salt mist on the test
specimen, nor introduce any secondary corrosion. Touching of the test surfaces by hand
should be avoided as far as possible before the test.
10 Arrangement of the test specimens
10.1 The test specimens shall be tested in their normal operating positions in accordance
with the relevant specification.
10.2 The angle at which the surface of the test specimen is exposed in the chamber is very
important. The angle shall be mutually agreed between the interested parties.
Unless otherwise specified, specimens shall be mounted at an angle of 20° ± 5° to the vertical,
with the area of primary interest facing up. This is common practice for testing metallic
specimens and are common measures to protect them from corrosion. When testing
assemblies or enclosures, it can be preferable to mount the specimen at the same angle as in
normal use.
– 10 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
10.3 The test specimens shall be arranged so that they do not come into contact with the
chamber and so that surfaces to be tested are exposed to free circulation of spray. The test
specimens may be placed at different levels within the chamber as long as the solution does
not drip from the test specimens or their supports at one level onto other test specimens
placed below. When practical, specimen repositioning at regular intervals during the test is
recommended.
10.4 The supports for the test specimens shall be made of inert non-metallic material. If it is
necessary to suspend test specimens, the material used shall not be metallic but shall be
synthetic fibre, cotton thread or other inert insulating material.
11 Operating conditions
11.1 The operating conditions shall be as specified in Table 2.
Table 2 – Operating conditions
Condition Specified value
Temperature 35 °C ± 2 K
Average collection rate for a horizontal
1,5 ml/h ± 0,5 ml/h
collecting area of 80 cm
Concentration of sodium chloride
50 g/l ± 5 g/l
(collected solution)
pH (collected solution) 6,5 to 7,2
The ± tolerances given are the allowable operational fluctuations, which are defined
as the positive and negative deviations from the setting of the sensor at the
operational control set point during equilibrium conditions. This does not mean that
the set value may vary by plus/minus the amount indicated from the given value.
11.2 Check the collection rate and other test conditions in the test chamber, filled to a
similar extent as during the test. A completely filled chamber often exhibits different
performance than the same chamber operated empty. The trial run for confirming the test
conditions should be performed for a minimum of 24 h before starting a test. A trial run is not
necessary when the time between tests is five day or less, if mutually agreed between the
interested parties.
The measurements of test conditions shall be made immediately following the trial run and
before exposing the test specimens to be tested. Care should be taken to only measure the
solution that has not been subjected to significant evaporation. After it has been confirmed
that the test conditions are within a specified range, stop spraying the salt solution, fill the test
chamber with test specimens and start the test.
Evaporation of the collected solution inside the chamber and during measurement can have
an effect on the concentration and pH.
11.3 Place at least two clean and dry collecting devices in the zone of the chamber where
the test specimens are placed, one close to an inlet of spray and one remote from an inlet.
Additional collecting devices may be used for more precise mapping of the spray homogeneity.
The collecting devices shall be placed such that they are not shielded by the test specimens,
and so that only mist, and not liquid falling from specimens or from parts of the chambers, is
collected. Each collecting device shall collect sprayed solution in the amount of
1,5 ml/h ± 0,5 ml/h averaged over a minimum period of 24 h. In addition to performing a trial
run prior to tests (11.2), daily monitoring of the collection rate is recommended during tests,
when practical.
NOTE Additional collecting devices are placed in quantities proportional to the chamber exposure area. For
optional daily monitoring, using a smaller quantity of collecting devices is common.
11.4 The solution as collected in each of the collecting devices (6.4) shall have a
concentration and pH within the ranges given in Table 2.
11.5 During operation, the solution tank shall be covered by a lid to prevent dust or other
contaminants from influencing the solution and to prevent the concentration of sodium
chloride and the pH from fluctuating.
12 Duration of test
12.1 The duration of the test shall be as specified in the relevant specification. The duration
should be selected from one of the following preferred durations: 16 h, 24 h, 48 h (2 days),
96 h (4 days), 168 h (1 week), 336 h (2 weeks) and 672 h (4 weeks).
12.2 Interruptions of the test shall be minimized. The chamber shall be opened only for brief
visual inspections of the test specimens in position and for replenishing the salt solution in the
reservoir, if such replenishment cannot be carried out from outside the chamber.
The total opening time per day shall not exceed 1 h.
12.3 If the end-point of the test depends on the appearance of the first sign of corrosion, the
test specimens shall be inspected frequently with the requirements of 12.2.
12.4 A periodic visual inspection of specimens under test for a predetermined period may be
carried out, but the surfaces under test shall not be disturbed, and the period for which the
chamber is open shall be the minimum necessary to observe and record any visible changes.
13 Recovery (at the end of testing)
At the completion of the test, test specimens, unless otherwise specified by the relevant
specification, shall be washed in running tap water for 5 min, rinsed in distilled or deionized
water. The temperature of the water used for washing shall not exceed 35 °C.
Washing should be sufficient to remove salt deposits while not removing corrosion products,
both of which could have an effect on specimen evaluations.
After washing, the test specimens shall be shaken by hand or subjected to air blast to remove
droplets of water, then dried under controlled recovery conditions (IEC 60068-1) for not less
than 1 h and not more than 2 h.
14 Final measurements
The test specimens shall be visually inspected and, if necessary, electrically and
mechanically checked as required by the relevant specification.
The results shall be recorded in the test report.
15 Information to be given in the relevant specification
The following details shall be given, in so far as they are applicable in the relevant
specification, as this information is always required:
a) Test specimens (see Clause 7);
b) Initial measurements (see Clause 8);
c) Pre-conditioning (see Clause 9);
– 12 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
d) Arrangement of the test specimens (see Clause 10);
e) Duration of test (see Clause 12);
f) Recovery (see Clause 13);
g) Final measurements (see Clause 14).
16 Test report
The following details shall be given in the test report, where applicable:
a) reference to this document, i.e. IEC 60068-2-11:20XX;
b) type and purity of salt and water used;
c) test apparatus (manufacturer, model number, etc.);
d) corrosivity of test apparatus evaluated to suitable method (see Annex B);
e) description of test specimen;
f) methods and results of initial measurements (see Clause 8);
g) pre-conditioning of test specimen, including any cleaning method applied before the test
and whether or not to remove the temporary protective coating;
h) the angle at which the test specimen is exposed;
i) operating conditions (see Table 2);
j) duration of test;
k) recovery conditions and duration;
l) periodic inspection and any visible changes, if performed;
m) method and results of final measurements (see Clause 14);
n) any deviations from the procedure;
o) any unusual features observed;
p) the date of the test.
Annex A
(informative)
Examples of test apparatus for salt mist test
Key
1 dispersion tower 8 saturation tower
2 atomizer 9 compressed air
3 cover 10 solenoid valve
4 test chamber 11 pressure gauge
5 test specimen 12 solution tank
6 collecting device 13 temperature controls
7 salt mist 14 naturally falling down salt mist
Figure A.1 – Example of test apparatus for salt mist test
Figure A.1 is an illustration of one possible implementation of a salt spray chamber. Any other
implementation which fulfils the requirements may be used.
– 14 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
Key
1 air duct 8 compressed air
2 atomizer 9 solenoid valve
3 test chamber 10 pressure gauge
4 salt mist 11 solution tank
5 test specimen 12 temperature control
6 collecting device 13 naturally falling down salt mist
7 air humidifier
Figure A.2 – Example of test apparatus for salt mist test
Figure A.2 is an illustration of one possible implementation of a salt spray chamber. Any other
implementation which fulfils the requirements may be used.
Annex B
(informative)
Method for evaluating corrosivity of the apparatus
B.1 General
To check the reproducibility and repeatability of the test results for one piece of apparatus, or
for similar items of apparatus in different laboratories, it is necessary to verify the apparatus
at regular intervals as described in Clause B.2 to Clause B.5.
NOTE During permanent operation, a reasonable time period between two checks of the corrosivity of the
apparatus is generally considered to be three months.
To determine the corrosivity of the test, reference specimens made of steel shall be used.
B.2 Reference specimens
To verify the apparatus, use at least four reference specimens of 1,0 mm ± 0,2 mm thickness
and 150 mm × 70 mm, of CR4 grade steel in accordance with ISO 3574 with an essentially
faultless surface and a matt finish (arithmetical mean deviation of the profile
Ra = 0,8 µm ± 0,3 µm). Cut these reference specimens from cold-rolled plates or strips.
The reference specimens shall be thoroughly cleaned before testing, if not otherwise specified.
The cleaning method employed shall depend on the nature of the material, its surface and the
contaminants and shall not include the use of any abrasives or solvents which can attack the
surface of the specimens.
Ensure reference specimens are not recontaminated after cleaning as a result of handling
errors.
Thoroughly clean the reference specimens with an appropriate organic solvent (such as a
hydrocarbon with a boiling point between 60 °C and 120 °C) using a clean soft brush or soft
cloth, non-woven lint free cloth, that does not leave any residue or an ultrasonic cleaning
device. Carry out the cleaning in a vessel full of solvent. After cleaning, rinse the reference
specimens with fresh solvent and then dry them.
WARNING – Most organic solvents are flammable liquids, toxic and irritating. Handling of
organic solvent shall be restricted to skilled personnel or conducted under their control. Care
shall be taken in the disposal of these solvents.
Determine the mass of the reference specimens to ±1 mg. Protect one face of the reference
specimens with a removable coating, for example an adhesive plastic film. The edges of the
reference specimens may be protected by the adhesive tape as well.
B.3 Arrangement of the reference specimens
Position at least four steel reference specimens in four quadrants (if six specimens are
available, place them in six different positions including four quadrants) in the zone of the
chamber where the test specimens are placed, with the unprotected face upwards, and at an
angle of 20° ± 5° from the vertical. The support for the reference specimens shall be made of,
or coated with, inert materials such as plastics. The lower edge of the reference specimens
shall be in level with the top of the salt spray collector.
___________
"Essentially faultless" means free from pores, marks, scratches and any light colouration.
– 16 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
The chamber should be verified during the testing of test specimens. In this case, the
reference specimens and the test specimens shall not affect each other. Otherwise, the
chamber shall be filled with substitute specimens to maintain the homogeneity of the chamber.
The verification procedure shall be performed using the same settings as for the test runs.
B.4 Duration of test
The test duration shall be 48 h.
B.5 Determination of mass loss (mass per area)
At the end of the test, immediately take the reference specimens out of the chamber and
remove the protective coating. Remove the corrosion products by mechanical and chemical
cleaning, as described in ISO 8407. As the option of chemical cleaning, use a solution for
10 min at 23 °C with dissolving diammonium hydrogen citrate [(NH ) HC H O ] (recognized
4 2 6 5 7
analytical grade) in water to produce a concentration of 200 g/l.
After each stripping, thoroughly clean the reference specimens at ambient temperature with
water, then with ethanol, followed by drying.
Weigh the reference specimens to the nearest 1 mg. Divide the determined mass loss by the
area of the exposed surface area of the reference specimen in order to assess the metal
mass loss per square metre of the reference specimen.
It is recommended that a freshly prepared solution be used during each procedure for the
removal of corrosion products.
B.6 Satisfactory performance of apparatus
The apparatus has performed satisfactorily if the mass loss of each reference specimen is
2 2
within the range of 70 g/m ± 20 g/m after 48 h of testing.
Bibliography
[1] IEC 60068-2-52, Environmental testing – Part 2-52: Tests – Test Kb: Salt mist, cyclic
(sodium chloride solution)
[2] ISO 3574, Cold-reduced carbon steel sheet of commercial and drawing qualities
[3] ISO 8407, Corrosion of metals and alloys – Removal of corrosion products from
corrosion test specimens
[4] ISO 9227, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres – Salt spray tests
[5] Shigeru Suga & Shigeo Suga, Report on the results from the ISO/TC 156/WG 7
International Round Robin Test Programme on ISO 9227 Salt spray tests. J. Surface
Finish. Soc. Japan. 2005, 56, p. 28
___________
– 18 – IEC 60068-2-11:2021 © IEC 2021
SOMMAIRE
AVANT-PROPOS . 19
INTRODUCTION . 21
1 Domaine d’application . 22
2 Références normatives . 22
3 Termes et définitions . 22
4 Généralités . 22
5 Solution saline . 23
5.1 Préparation de la solution saline . 23
5.2 Ajustement du pH . 23
5.3 Filtration . 23
5.4 Réutilisation . 23
6 Appareillage d’essai . 24
6.1 Chambre d’essai . 24
6.2 Pulvérisateur(s) . 24
6.3 Source d'air . 24
6.4 Dispositifs de collecte . 25
6.5 Méthode d'évaluation de la corrosivité de la chambre . 25
7 Spécimens d'essai . 25
8 Mesurages initiaux. 25
9 Préconditionnement .
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