The MIL-STD acidic atmosphere test evaluates the effects of corrosive atmospheres on testing material. As a certified MIL-STD-810 test lab, we realize the importance of test method 518, corrosion testing. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process. Meeting the MIL-810 acidic atmosphere test requirements can be difficult.
Keystone takes a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. We create an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. When products do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve MIL-STD-810 product compliance. Lastly, our accurate test reports are delivered quickly while offering competitive pricing and volume discounts.
Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest growing compliance test labs in the country. Contact us to receive more information on MIL-810 corrosion testing.
The Importance of Acidic Atmosphere Compliance Testing
The MIL-STD-810 Corrosion Test, also known as the Acidic Atmospheric Method, is used to determine the resistance of materials and protective coatings to corrosive atmospheres. When necessary, it also determines its effect on operational capabilities.
Use the corrosion lab testing method when the material is likely to be stored or operated in areas where acidic atmospheres exist. Examples include industrial areas or near exhausts of any fuel-burning device.
How Method 518 of MIL-STD Acidic Atmosphere Testing Affects Products
When selecting this military testing method, the atmospheres are of increasing concern. Especially for material in the vicinity of industrial areas or near the exhausts of fuel-burning devices. Examples of problems that could occur as a result of acidic atmosphere exposure are included below.
This list is not intended to be inclusive, and some examples may overlap the categories.
- Chemical attack of surface finishes and nonmetallic materials.
- Corrosion of metals.
- Pitting of cement and optics.
Information of the MIL-STD-810 Standard Testing
Use the anticipated life cycle sequence of events as a guide when the Acidic Atmosphere Method 518 test is deemed necessary. Because the tailoring options are limited, the MIL-810 standard test procedure included in this method is considered suitable for most applications.
There are at least two main philosophies regarding the military testing lab sequence. One approach is to conserve the test item life by applying what is perceived to be the least damaging environment first.
The second philosophy is to apply environments to maximize the likelihood of disclosing common effects. It is advised that separate test items be used for each MIL-STD-810 compliance and corrosion method 518 test.
First, select this method and relevant procedures. Then, the acid rain and shock testing process is completed by identifying appropriate parameter levels, applicable test conditions and techniques for these procedures. The selection of the parameters below are based on the required documents and information provided with this procedure.
Temperature Severities – The MIL-STD 810 Corrosion Test and the exposure temperature used in this method are similar to that used in the salt fog test, method 509.
Test Duration – Two severity levels are defined as: (a) infrequent periods of exposure, or for exposure in areas of much lower acidity, and (b) approximately ten years of natural exposure in a moist, highly industrial area.
Test Item Configuration – The configuration of the material is an important factor. During the MIL-STD 810 test, the foreseen configurations during storage, protected and deployed are used.
Chemical composition – Unless otherwise specified, use a test solution containing 11.9mg sulfuric acid /4 liters of solution, and 8.8mg nitric acid /4 liters solution in distilled or deionized water.
Operational Consideration – The test item will not normally be required to function during the MIL-810 test, but may be required to do so upon completion of the test.
Limitations of the MIL-STD-810 Acidic Atmosphere Test
Note that limitations will arise and that this 810-test method is not a replacement for the salt and fog method. Nor is it suitable for evaluating the effects of hydrogen sulfide that readily oxidizes in the test environment to form sulfur dioxide.
Although salt fog chambers are usually used for this test, introducing an acidic or sulfur dioxide atmosphere in a salt fog chamber may contaminate the chamber for future salt fog tests.
Keystone Compliance Provides Acidic Atmosphere Testing Services
Keystone Compliance is one of the best acidic atmosphere testing labs in the country. We employ expert military standard test engineers and properly equip our MIL-STD 810 lab in order to provide corrosion resistant test standards, acid atmosphere and corrosion compliance certifications.
In addition to test method 518, acidic atmosphere testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including fungus, pyroshock, and freeze-thaw. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.
Have a question about our corrosion testing services? Contact us or call (724) 657-9940 and we will determine the best course of action.