At J.S. Hamilton Poland Testing Laboratory, we provide comprehensive corrosion testing services, including:
- Testing in salt spray chambers – using neutral and acid solutions,
- Testing in condensation chambers,
- Testing in climate chambers.
To receive a detailed quotation or if you have any technical or commercial inquiries regarding our testing services, please contact us:
- Call us:
+48 58 766 99 00
+48 32 730 82 00
+48 32 730 83 16 - Send an e-mail:
infotest@jsh.com.pl
Our technical sales representatives are available to assist you at every stage of the project — both during the quotation process and throughout service execution. Support is available in Polish, English, and German:
- Polish and English: Patryk Powaga – 785 230 530; ppowaga@jsh.com.pl
- Polish and English: Tomasz Kress – 667 970 009; tkress@jsh.com.pl
- Polish, English and German: Wojciech Pacześniak – 785 230 460; wpaczesniak@jsh.com.pl
- Polish: Michał Majcher – 607 747 726; mmajcher@jsh.com.pl
Why Perform Corrosion Testing?
Corrosion is a gradual degradation process affecting materials, particularly metals and their alloys. Exposure to atmospheric conditions such as salt mist and humidity results in rust formation, which deteriorates mechanical properties and reduces product lifespan. Therefore, implementing and validating effective anti-corrosion protection is crucial.
Accelerated corrosion testing allows verification of protective coating systems. At J.S. Hamilton, we conduct corrosion tests in accordance with the following standards:
- PN-EN ISO 9227 – Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres: Salt spray tests,
- PN-EN ISO 6270-1 – Paints and varnishes: Determination of resistance to humidity – Part 1: Condensation,
- PN-EN ISO 6270-2 – Paints and varnishes: Determination of resistance to humidity – Part 2: Water condensation exposure in heated water tank chambers,
- PN-EN ISO 12944 series – Paints and varnishes: Corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems,
- PN-EN ISO 11997-1 – Paints and varnishes: Determination of resistance to cyclic corrosion conditions – Part 1: Wet (salt fog) / dry / humid cycles.
- PN-EN IEC 60068-2-11 – Environmental testing — Part 2-11: Tests — Test Ka: Salt mist
- PN-EN IEC 60068-2-52 – Environmental testing — Part 2: Tests — Test Kb: Cyclic salt mist (sodium chloride solution)
PN-EN ISO 9227
This standard allows assessment of corrosion resistance for metallic materials with protective coatings, as well as detection of discontinuities, pores, and damage in organic and inorganic coatings. It enables quality control and comparison of coating processes across production batches.
Depending on the protective system applied, the following tests are conducted:
- NSS (Neutral Salt Spray) – suitable for metals, metallic coatings (anodic and cathodic), conversion coatings, anodic oxide coatings, and organic coatings,
- AASS (Acetic Acid Salt Spray) – suitable for decorative coatings such as copper + nickel + chromium or nickel + chromium, and anodic or organic coatings on aluminum,
- CASS (Copper-Accelerated Acetic Acid Salt Spray) – also used for decorative coatings on aluminum with copper acceleration.
Our salt spray chambers are regularly calibrated in accordance with PN-EN ISO 9227 to ensure repeatability and reproducibility of test results.
Test duration is determined based on material specifications and agreed with the client. Key test parameters verified every 24 hours (excluding weekends) include:
- Temperature: NSS and AASS at 35°C; CASS at 50°C,
- Sodium chloride concentration: 50 g/l ± 5 g/l,
- Collection rate: 1.5 ml/h ± 0.5 ml/h for an 80 cm² horizontal surface,
- pH of solution: NSS – 6.5 to 7.2; AASS and CASS – 3.1 to 3.3,
- Visual inspection – first signs of corrosion.
This is intended to regulate parameters such as the solution’s pH and to ensure full control over the proper course of the examination. After testing, samples are cleaned and evaluated based on client-specific criteria.
To receive a detailed quotation or if you have any technical or commercial inquiries regarding our testing services, please contact us:
- Call us:
+48 58 766 99 00
+48 32 730 82 00
+48 32 730 83 16 - Send an e-mail:
infotest@jsh.com.pl
PN-EN ISO 6270-1
This method assesses the resistance of paint coatings and similar materials to continuous condensation. It applies to:
- Porous substrates: wood, gypsum, plasterboard,
- Non-porous substrates: metal.
Samples are conditioned in accordance with the standard, then evaluated based on the client-specific criteria. The main assessments include:
- PN-EN ISO 4628-1 Paints and varnishes – Evaluation of degradation of coatings – Designation of quantity and size of defects, and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance – Part 1: General introduction and designation system.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-2 Paints and varnishes – Evaluation of degradation of coatings – Designation of quantity and size of defects, and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance – Part 2: Assessment of degree of blistering.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-3 Paints and varnishes – Evaluation of degradation of coatings – Designation of quantity and size of defects, and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance – Part 3: Assessment of degree of rusting.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-4 Paints and varnishes – Evaluation of degradation of coatings – Designation of quantity and size of defects, and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance – Part 4: Assessment of degree of cracking.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-5 Paints and varnishes – Evaluation of degradation of coatings – Designation of quantity and size of defects, and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance – Part 5: Assessment of degree of flaking.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-8 Paints and varnishes – Evaluation of degradation of coatings – Designation of quantity and size of defects, and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance – Part 8: Assessment of degree of delamination and corrosion around a scribe or other artificial defect.
To receive a detailed quotation or if you have any technical or commercial inquiries regarding our testing services, please contact us:
- Call us:
+48 58 766 99 00
+48 32 730 82 00
+48 32 730 83 16 - Send an e-mail:
infotest@jsh.com.pl
PN-EN ISO 6270-2
The ISO 6270-2 standard is used for testing coated samples in an atmosphere with constant or cyclic condensation in order to ensure the verification of repeatable test results performed in different laboratories.
This testing method aims to evaluate the behaviour of test samples in a humid atmosphere and to detect any deficiencies in the corrosion protection of the test specimens. However, testing of coatings in such atmospheres does not necessarily provide data for predicting a service life.
After conditioning, the test samples are evaluated against standards, such as the relevant parts of the ISO 4628, or according to the agreed procedures.
PN-EN ISO 12944
Uncoated steel corrodes in water, soil, and atmospheric conditions. Therefore, to prevent its degradation, steel structures are coated with appropriate protective layers designed to protect them during a specified exposure period.
The methods described in those standards concern the protection of steel structures using paint systems. There are nine parts of the ISO 12944:
- General introduction
- Environmental classification
- Design considerations
- Surface preparation
- Protective paint systems
- Laboratory test methods
- Execution and supervision of painting work
- Specifications for new projects and maintenance
- Systems and lab methods for offshore and related structures
PN-EN ISO 12944-1 specifies the durability of the protective layer in four periods:
| Classification | ||||
| PL | DE | EN | ||
| L | krótki | kurz | low | up to 7 years |
| M | średni | mittel | medium | 7-15 years |
| H | długi | lang | high | 15-25 years |
| VH | bardzo długi | sehr lang | very high | over 25 years |
It should be noted that the durability period is not the same as the warranty period. Durability can help the manufacturer to establish a maintenance or renovation plan. The warranty period is usually shorter than the durability period.
PN-EN ISO 12944-2 classifies environments into categories of atmospheric corrosivity (C1 – very low, C2 – low, C3 – medium, C4 – high, C5-I – very high industrial, C5-M – very high marine), as well as soil and water (Im1 – fresh water, Im2 – sea or brackish water, Im3 – soil).
| Corrosivity categories of the atmosphere and examples of typical environments according to EN ISO 12944-2:2017 | ||
| Corrosivity categories | Typical environments | Corrosivity categories impact |
| C1 | Heated buildings with a clean atmosphere, e.g. offices, shops, schools, hotels | very low impact |
| C2 | Slightly polluted atmospheres: mainly rural areas. Unheated buildings where condensation can occur, e.g. warehouses, sports halls. | low impact |
| C3 | Urban and industrial atmospheres, medium sulfur dioxide pollution: coastal areas with low salinity. Production rooms with high humidity and some air pollution, such as food plants, laundries, breweries, dairies. | medium impact |
| C4 | Industrial areas and coastal areas with moderate salinity. Chemical plants, swimming pools, ship and boat repair yards. | high impact |
| C5 | Industrial areas with high humidity and aggressive atmosphere and coastal areas with high salinity. Buildings or areas with almost continuous condensation and high pollution. | very high |
| CX | Offshore areas with high salinity and industrial areas with extreme humidity and aggressive atmospheres, as well as subtropical and tropical atmospheres. | extreme |
PN-EN ISO 12944-6 defines testing methods based on durability periods and corrosivity categories for paint systems. Detailed information regarding the duration of the tests and the test regime can be found in section 5.6 Test procedures and duration of testing of this part of the standard.
For example, if the tested elements fall under corrosivity category C2 and the desired durability is very high, then according to test regime 1, the samples must undergo a water condensation test according to PN-EN ISO 6270-1 (240 hours), and a neutral salt spray test according to PN-EN ISO 9227 (480 hours). These tests must be conducted using separate sets of test panels.
The samples are then evaluated according to the following standards:
- PN-EN ISO 2409: Cross-cut test – for protective layers up to 250 µm thick;
- PN-EN ISO 4628-2: Assessment of degree of blistering;
- PN-EN ISO 4628-3: Assessment of degree of rusting;
- PN-EN ISO 4628-4: Assessment of degree of cracking;
- PN-EN ISO 4628-5: Assessment of degree of flaking;
- A.2: Corrosion in the scribe after neutral salt spray testing;
- A.2: Corrosion in the scribe after cyclic aging testing;
- and verification for compliance with the requirements set out in section 6: Assessment of the paint system.
To receive a detailed quotation or if you have any technical or commercial inquiries regarding our testing services, please contact us:
- Call us:
+48 58 766 99 00
+48 32 730 82 00
+48 32 730 83 16 - Send an e-mail:
infotest@jsh.com.pl
PN-EN ISO 11997-1
This standard compares the corrosion resistance of protective coatings under cyclic salt spray conditions. Four main cycles are used:
- Cycle A – based on JASO M 609-91 / M610-92 (Japan),
- Cycle B – based on VDA 621-415 (commonly used in Europe, especially in automotive applications),
- Cycle C – developed in the UK for latex and water-based paints,
- Cycle D – defined in JIS K 5621-2003 (Japan).
Parameters are specified in Annexes A–D of the standard and closely monitored throughout testing process.
Test specimens (minimum size: 100 mm × 70 mm × 0.3 mm) are prepared by the client. Coating thickness is measured and incisions are made according to the standard before the test begins.
After the test is completed, the samples are rinsed with clean water to remove any salt solution residues and then evaluated for the presence of defects in accordance with:
- PN-EN ISO 4628-1: Paints and varnishes — Evaluation of degradation of coatings — Designation of quantity and size of defects and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance — Part 1: General introduction and designation system.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-2: Paints and varnishes — Evaluation of degradation of coatings — Designation of quantity and size of defects and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance — Part 2: Assessment of degree of blistering.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-3: Paints and varnishes — Evaluation of degradation of coatings — Designation of quantity and size of defects and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance — Part 3: Assessment of degree of rusting.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-4: Paints and varnishes — Evaluation of degradation of coatings — Designation of quantity and size of defects and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance — Part 4: Assessment of degree of cracking.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-5: Paints and varnishes — Evaluation of degradation of coatings — Designation of quantity and size of defects and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance — Part 5: Assessment of degree of flaking.
- PN-EN ISO 4628-8: Paints and varnishes — Evaluation of degradation of coatings — Designation of quantity and size of defects and of intensity of uniform changes in appearance — Part 8: Assessment of degree of delamination and corrosion around a scribe or other artificial defect.
To receive a detailed quotation or if you have any technical or commercial inquiries regarding our testing services, please contact us:
- Call us:
+48 58 766 99 00
+48 32 730 82 00
+48 32 730 83 16 - Send an e-mail:
infotest@jsh.com.pl
EN IEC 60068-2-11 Standard
EN 60068-2-11 standard covers environmental testing. It focuses on assessing the corrosion resistance of components, equipment, and materials in salt spray environments.
Main Objectives and Characteristics:
- Salt spray test. This is a standardized test method designed to accelerate the corrosion process in laboratory conditions. This allows for the assessment of product durability in salt spray environments, such as coastal areas.
- Evaluation of protective coatings: This standard is particularly useful for assessing the quality and uniformity of coatings applied to metals to protect them from corrosion. The test allows for the detection of coating defects, such as pinholes and other imperfections, that can become a source of corrosion.
- Simple and well-standardized method: The salt spray test is widely used due to its simplicity, speed, and precise standards that ensure repeatable results.
EN IEC 60068-2-52 Standard
EN 60068-2-52 is a European standard that specifies procedures for conducting a cyclic salt spray test. It applies to components and devices designed to operate in salt-containing atmospheres, such as marine environments. Salt can degrade the performance of parts made of metallic and non-metallic materials.
Purpose and Characteristics of the Standard. The primary purpose of the test is to assess resistance to salt-induced corrosion.
Unlike the simple salt spray test (EN 60068-2-11), this standard introduces cyclic conditions that more closely mimic the natural environment. The cyclic test consists of repeated phases, including salt spray, wet and dry storage, and standard atmosphere.
Test Procedures
The EN 60068-2-52 standard defines six different severity levels (test methods), each with unique requirements for the duration of each phase.
- Levels 1 and 2 are intended for products used in or near marine environments.
- Levels 3 to 6 are used for products that frequently transition between salty and dry atmospheres, such as cars and their components.
For example, a severity level 1 test requires four two-hour spray periods and a seven-day wet storage period. Severity level 6, on the other hand, involves eight test cycles, each consisting of four two-hour spray periods and a 20 to 22-hour wet storage period.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of corrosion on metallic materials in chloride-containing atmospheres is electrochemical, while the degradation of non-metallic materials is caused by complex chemical reactions between salt and the material. The standard allows for the assessment of both of these processes.
Climatic Chamber Testing
JSH Poland laboratory in Siemianowice Śląskie is equipped with a range of climatic chambers, from volumes of 0.125 m³ to larger ones of 1–1.5 m³, as well as large testing chambers enabling the examination of sizeable products and samples.
Tests are carried out using both accredited and non-accredited methods, in accordance with the requirements of the client and their customer.
We conduct tests according to the EN 60068-2 collection of methods, as well as corporate and product-specific standards tailored to the intended application of the product:
- Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-1: Test A: Cold
The cold test is used for both heat-generating and non-heat-generating products. It is performed, among others, to test devices expected to operate throughout the entire duration of the exposure. The cold test is designed to determine the suitability of components, devices, or other products for use, transport, or storage under low temperature conditions. - Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-2: Test B: Dry Heat
The constant dry heat test is applied to both heat-generating and non-heat-generating products. It assesses the ability of components, devices, and other products to function, be transported, and stored at high temperatures. There are several subtypes: dry heat for non-heat-generating items (with gradual temperature change – Test Bb), dry heat for heat-generating items (Test Bd), and dry heat for powered heat-generating items (Test Be). - Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-78: Test Cab: Constant Damp Heat
This test determines the adaptability of products, components, or electrical devices to transport, storage, and use in high humidity conditions. The goal is to assess the effects of prolonged humidity at a constant temperature without condensation. It is suitable for both small and large devices, whether or not they generate heat. - Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-14: Test N: Change of Temperature
This test measures the impact of temperature variations—either a single change or a series—on products and samples. It evaluates the effect of low and high temperatures as well as humidity changes over time and frequency. Factors such as the time between temperature transitions and the number of temperature cycles can significantly affect the performance of products. It is especially used for automotive components, highly reliable electronic devices, and material samples to demonstrate resistance to thermal and humidity changes. - Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-30: Test Db: Cyclic Damp Heat (12 h + 12 h cycle)
This test assesses the ability of components, devices, or other products to function, be stored, or transported in high humidity conditions combined with cyclic temperature changes, which lead to condensation on the surface. Commonly used in automotive, railway, energy, and electronics industries, as well as for aging tests on materials like plastics, rubber, and others. - Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-38: Test Z/AD: Composite Temperature/Humidity Cyclic Test
This is a complex test procedure mainly intended for components, aiming to determine accelerated resistance to harmful effects of high temperature, humidity, and cold. The standard is not applicable to samples that are powered throughout the entire test. Samples may be powered during the constant phases of the test unless specified otherwise. - Environmental Testing – EN 60068-2-67: Test Cy: Constant Damp Heat, Accelerated Test Mainly for Components
This accelerated test is used to evaluate the resistance of small electrotechnical products—particularly non-hermetically sealed components—to the damaging effects of damp heat. The test is not intended to assess external effects such as corrosion or deformation.
Contact Us
To receive a customized quotation for testing and certification services or for any questions regarding corrosion testing, please do not hesitate to get in touch:
Call us:
+48 58 766 99 00
+48 32 730 82 00
+48 32 730 83 16
Send an e-mail: infotest@jsh.com.pl
Ensure the reliability of your products — trust J.S. Hamilton Poland for precise corrosion testing. Contact our team today and discover how we can support your quality assurance goals.