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The Volvo VCS 1027, 149 test (also known as ACT-1) is a procedure developed to evaluate the corrosion resistance of metals, especially in sodium chloride rich environments from a marine influence or from winter de-icing solutions.
The test is intended to replicate the corrosion resistance to atmospheric conditions, in an accelerated but controlled way.
For a reference guide on how to test to this standartd using an Ascott chamber click the button below;
The test method is composed of approximately 1% (+/- 0.1%) NaCL salt mist applications combined with a drying and controlled temperature and humidity phases, the length of the test process should be determined as part of the test procedure, however a 6 week test process should be sufficient to analyse bare metal or samples only protected by a thin coating, higher quality coatings may require as much as 12 weeks.
The recommended specification for the equipment required to undertake this test includes the use of oscillating spray nozzles located high up in the test chamber. These spray salt water solution down on to test samples located beneath, in a precise spray pattern, to ensure a uniform distribution of salt mist falling on the test objects with a flow corresponding to a downfall of 15 mm/h ±5 mm/h.
Forced drying is additionally recommended as part of the process, this is preferably achieved by creating a forced flow of pre-heated ambient air to ventilate the chamber. For a climate chamber of the volume between 1 and 2 m3, an airflow rate of 50 - 100 l/s is recommended.
Specimens being tested are exposed to a series of stages, exposing the samples to a variety of environmental conditions. The one-week main test cycle comprises of two twelve-hour sub-cycles, one with controlled cycling humidity, the other including the application of salt spray, these cycles detailed below;
First Sub Cycle
Second Sub Cycle
Developed by Volvo, VCS 1027, 149 is a sophisticated corrosion test process that is widely utilised within the supply chain for supply of components to the Volvo Group. Note; this test has for some applications been superseded by VCS 1027, 1449 (also known as ACT-2).
If you would like further information please call our experienced team on 01827 318040 or email sales@ascott-analytical.com