Corrosive Atmosphere

Corrosive Atmosphere tests are performed to determine the effects of an acidic atmosphere on equipment or materials. These conditions may be either naturally occurring conditions or a result of man made pollutants. Typical atmospheres are comprised of salt (NaCl) spray with additional contaminants, such as sulfur dioxide. The effects can be divided into four broad categories:

Effects
Corrosion of finishes
Corrosion of components such as precision springs
Impairment of electrical operations
Impairment of mechanical operations
Procedure
This test is typically performed in a test chamber at an elevated temperature of approximately 90° F. The test unit is suspended in a corrosive atmosphere, sometimes in combination with an atomized salt solution, for a typical duration of from seven to thirty days. The most common corrosive component is sulfur dioxide, which combines with moisture to form acid rain, a mild solution of sulfuric acid.
Applications
Exposed equipment on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier
Equipment in an industrial environment
Equipment mounted in or around a smokestack
Telecommunications central office equipment
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