What is salt spray testing? And is it worth its salt?

Salt spray testing, also known as salt fog testing or corrosion testing, is a critical process in the world of ironmongery, but what exactly is it, and why does it matter?

What is salt spray testing?

Salt spray testing is a method used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of materials and coatings. It involves exposing sample products to a saline mist or fog in a controlled environment to simulate the corrosive effects of saltwater or coastal conditions. This process helps assess the durability and longevity of ironmongery products, such as door handles, hinges, and locks, in harsh environments prone to corrosion.

Why is it useful?

Ironmongery products are constantly exposed to corrosive elements like salt spray, which can accelerate metal deterioration. Salt spray testing serves as a valuable tool for manufacturers, architects, and builders to ensure that ironmongery products meet quality standards and withstand the rigors of extreme environments.

What is salt spray testing? And is it worth its salt

Grading of corrosion resistance

BS EN 1670, categorises corrosion resistance into five grades ranging from Grade 0 indicating no defined corrosion resistance to Grade 4 signifying very high resistance.

•   Grade 0: no defined corrosion resistance
•   Grade 1: mild resistance – minimum requirement for internal use
•   Grade 2: moderate resistance
•   Grade 3: high resistance – minimum requirement for external use
•   Grade 4: very high resistance – recommended for use in exposed marine atmospheres or very polluted industrial environments

Note: Products intended to develop a natural patina (such as bronze or brass) are not required to comply with any requirements.

Pros of salt spray tested ironmongery

Suitable for harsh environments: Salt tested ironmongery is particularly well-suited for use in coastal areas, marine environments, and other high-corrosion settings, where standard hardware may quickly degrade.

Extended lifespan: Designed to withstand corrosion from salt spray, humidity, and other environmental factors; as a result, customers can expect their ironmongery products to last longer and require less frequent replacement or maintenance.

Value for money: While salt tested ironmongery may come at a slightly higher initial cost compared to standard hardware, the investment pays off in terms of longevity and performance, offering better value over time.

Cons of salt spray tested ironmongery

Higher initial cost: Salt tested ironmongery typically carries a higher price tag than standard hardware due to the additional testing and specialised materials involved.

Limited selection: Depending on the retailer or manufacturer, there may be limited range options available in salt tested hardware compared to standard products; this can limit a customer’s choices in terms of design, style, or finishes.

Maintenance requirements: While salt tested ironmongery offers superior corrosion resistance, it is important that they are properly maintained to ensure optimal performance and longevity e.g. regular cleaning and lubrication.

GB - What is salt spray testing? And is it worth its salt?

When to consider salt tested products?

Coastal areas: If you reside or operate in coastal regions where saltwater spray from the sea is a common occurrence, salt tested ironmongery is essential.

Marine applications: In marine settings, such as marinas, docks, or waterfront properties.

Poolside installations: Swimming pool areas are often exposed to chlorinated water and high humidity levels, which can corrode standard ironmongery over time. Salt tested hardware is resistant to corrosion from chlorine and other pool chemicals.

Industrial facilities: Industrial environments, such as chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, or wastewater treatment plants, may expose ironmongery to corrosive substances or harsh chemicals.

High-traffic areas: In busy public spaces or commercial buildings, ironmongery is subjected to frequent use and exposure to environmental factors. Salt tested hardware can withstand the wear and tear of high-traffic areas.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, salt spray testing is an invaluable method for ensuring the durability and longevity of ironmongery products in corrosive environments. By simulating the harsh conditions of saltwater exposure, this testing process enables manufacturers to produce hardware that meets high standards of corrosion resistance, as classified by BS EN 1670. Whether for coastal homes, marine settings, industrial facilities, or high-traffic areas, salt spray tested ironmongery offers significant advantages, including extended lifespan, suitability for extreme environments, and long-term value for money.