Corrosion Test With Flow of Mixed Gas As Per IEC 60068-2-60

Understanding Corrosion Testing with Flow of Mixed Gas as per IEC 60068-2-60

Introduction

Corrosion is a silent enemy that weakens materials over time, leading to structural failures, safety risks, and costly maintenance. Whether it’s electronic components, automotive parts, or industrial equipment, exposure to corrosive gases in the environment can significantly impact their performance and lifespan. To combat this, industries rely on corrosion testing to evaluate material durability under simulated real-world conditions. One of the most recognized methods is the Corrosion Test with Flow of Mixed Gas as per IEC 60068-2-60. This standardized test helps manufacturers assess how materials react when exposed to atmospheric pollutants, ensuring better product reliability.

What is IEC 60068-2-60?

IEC 60068-2-60 is an internationally recognized standard for testing corrosion resistance by exposing materials to a controlled environment with mixed gases. These gases mimic industrial and urban atmospheres, where materials degrade due to pollution and humidity.

The test involves exposure to:
✅ Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) – Found in industrial emissions and acid rain.
✅ Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) – Common in oil & gas industries, known for its corrosive nature.
✅ Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) – A major pollutant from vehicle emissions.
✅ Chlorine (Cl₂) – Present in coastal and industrial environments, affecting metals and electronics.

Why is This Test Important?

1. Simulates Real-World Conditions

Instead of waiting years to see how materials corrode naturally, this test accelerates the process in a controlled environment. This allows manufacturers to predict potential issues before deployment.

2. Helps Prevent Product Failures

Corrosion can lead to mechanical failure, short circuits in electronics, and compromised structural integrity. By conducting this test, companies can proactively address material weaknesses.

3. Ensures Compliance with Industry Standards

Many industries require materials to pass specific corrosion resistance tests to meet regulatory and safety requirements. This test ensures compliance with global standards.

4. Improves Product Longevity

Manufacturers can use test results to develop better coatings, select corrosion-resistant materials, and enhance product durability.

How is the Test Conducted?

🔹 Step 1: Preparation – Test samples are cleaned and conditioned before exposure.

🔹 Step 2: Controlled Exposure – The sample is placed inside a chamber where the gas mixture, humidity, and temperature are precisely regulated.

🔹 Step 3: Evaluation – After a specified duration, the sample is analyzed for corrosion effects such as discoloration, pitting, and material degradation.

Industries That Benefit from This Test

💡 Electronics & PCB Manufacturing – Ensures connectors and circuit boards can withstand corrosive gases.
🚗 Automotive Industry – Tests vehicle components for resistance to road pollution.
✈️ Aerospace & Defense – Validates the durability of aircraft and military-grade materials.
⚡ Telecommunication & Power Industry – Evaluates outdoor infrastructure components.

Conclusion

Corrosion testing is a crucial step in product development to ensure quality, safety, and long-term durability. With IEC 60068-2-60, industries can prevent failures, meet compliance standards, and improve product performance in corrosive environments.

FAQ

1. What is the IEC 60068-2-60 corrosion test?

IEC 60068-2-60 is an international standard that evaluates material resistance to corrosion by exposing samples to a controlled environment of mixed gases such as SO₂, H₂S, NO₂, and Cl₂ under specified temperature and humidity conditions.

2. Why is this test important?

This test helps predict material durability, identify potential failures, ensure compliance with industry standards, and enhance product longevity in corrosive environments.

3. What industries benefit from this test?

Industries such as electronics, automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, power & energy, and industrial manufacturing use this test to assess material performance in polluted environments.

4. What types of materials can be tested?

Commonly tested materials include metals, coatings, plastics, electronic components, circuit boards, connectors, and industrial equipment.