Effect and Failure Mechanism of Salt Spray Test Chambers on Automotive Components

The Impact of Salt Spray Test Chambers on Automotive Parts Performance

Corrosion Performance Evaluation

By simulating the exposure conditions of automobiles in harsh environments (especially marine climates or saline solutions used for de-icing winter roads) through salt spray test chambers, the corrosion resistance of automotive parts can be evaluated. This is of great importance for the selection of materials and the formulation of anti-corrosion measures for automotive parts.

Through the use of salt spray test chambers, potential corrosion issues can be identified and addressed in advance, thereby extending the lifespan and reliability of parts, and improving the quality and performance of the entire vehicle.

Material Selection Guidance

Salt spray test chambers can be used to evaluate the corrosion performance of parts made from different materials, helping manufacturers to select appropriate materials. In areas with marine climates or where saline solutions are used for de-icing winter roads, automotive parts need to possess high corrosion resistance to withstand salt spray corrosion.

Formulating Anti-Corrosion Measures

Salt spray test chambers can also evaluate the effectiveness of various anti-corrosion measures, providing a basis for manufacturers to develop suitable anti-corrosion strategies. For example, experiments can determine the applicability of anti-corrosion coatings and treatments, thereby enhancing the anti-corrosion capability of parts.

Failure Mechanisms of Salt Spray Test Chambers

Electrochemical Corrosion

In a salt spray environment, saline solution acts as an electrolyte, increasing the chances of micro-cell formation within the metal, thereby accelerating the electrochemical corrosion process. This can result in metal or coating corrosion, rust, and blistering.

Chloride ions play a major role in the salt spray corrosion process; they easily penetrate the metal oxide layer and enter the metal interior, damaging the metal's passive state. Additionally, chloride ions tend to adsorb on the metal surface, making the metal more prone to damage.

Combined Chemical Reactions between Salt and Materials

For non-metallic materials, the failure mechanism of salt spray test chambers mainly involves combined chemical reactions between salt and materials. This reaction can lead to the degradation of non-metallic material properties.

Mechanical Component Failure

Salt spray corrosion can also cause blockages or adhesion at the moving parts of mechanical components, leading to jamming or malfunction. For example, fine wires and printed circuit boards may experience open circuits or short circuits due to corrosion, and component legs may fracture.

Insulation Performance Degradation

The conductivity of saline solutions significantly lowers the surface and volume resistances of insulators. The resistance between salt spray corrosion products and the dried salt solution can be higher than the original metal, increasing the resistance and voltage drop at that location, affecting electrical contact actions, and thereby seriously impacting the electrical performance of products.

In summary, salt spray test chambers have a significant impact on the performance of automotive parts. By simulating salt corrosion environments to evaluate the corrosion resistance of parts, they assist manufacturers in selecting suitable materials and formulating effective anti-corrosion measures. Additionally, understanding the failure mechanisms of salt spray test chambers helps to better comprehend and address corrosion issues.