The surface electroplating layer on installation embedded parts for urban outdoor seats must withstand harsh environmental conditions, particularly corrosion from moisture, salt, and pollutants. Salt spray testing is a critical method to evaluate this resistance. Key international standards govern these tests, including ASTM B117 and ISO 9227.
ASTM B117, "Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus," is a widely recognized test that exposes samples to a continuous, controlled corrosive fog to simulate long-term exposure. The duration can vary from 24 to thousands of hours, with inspections for white rust (zinc plating) or red rust (steel base) at regular intervals.
ISO 9227, "Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests," is another major standard with similar methodologies. It includes neutral salt spray (NSS), acetic acid salt spray (AASS), and copper-accelerated acetic acid salt spray (CASS) tests, each designed for different plating types and severity levels.
For zinc or zinc-alloy electroplating on steel embedded parts, a common requirement is withstanding 96 to 240 hours of neutral salt spray testing without the formation of red rust. The specific standard and test duration are typically defined by the product specification or the purchasing agreement between the manufacturer and client. These tests are essential for ensuring the long-term durability and safety of public infrastructure, guaranteeing that the fasteners and anchors securing urban seating remain structurally sound despite constant exposure to the elements.