
Frequently asked questions about corrosion testing systems
Selecting a suitable corrosion testing system requires a fundamental understanding of the terminology, test types, and application areas used. Different materials, test requirements, and standards each place specific demands on the equipment employed.
This FAQ is aimed at users and decision-makers who want to gain an overview and better understand the interrelationships. The terms and principles explained here are intended to help clearly define requirements, classify differences between testing systems, and select the appropriate product for the respective application.
Decision aid: Selecting the right corrosion testing equipment
1. Standards & Testing Requirements
Which standard(s) do I have to meet?
e.g. B. DIN EN ISO 9227 (NSS/AASS/CASS), VDA, ASTM, OEM specificationsWhat types of tests do I need?
Salt spray, condensation, fluctuating climate, cyclical testing, special testsHow reproducible and compliant with standards must the results be (auditability)?
2. Test Item & Capacity
Which components are being tested?
Size, weight, geometry, materialHow many samples can be processed simultaneously (number of samples / throughput)?
How often is testing performed (occasionally, regularly, as part of a series)?
3. Plant size & modularity
What chamber size makes sense – today and in the future?
Can the system be expanded or converted (e.g., from NSS to cyclic)?
Does the system fit in the available space (door width, ceiling height, installation location)?
4. Operation & Automation
How easy is it to use in everyday life?
Are there automated programs, recipe management, and user rights?
Documentation & data export (e.g. for quality assurance, audits, customer reports)?
5. Quality, reliability & maintenance
What materials are used (corrosion resistance of the system itself)?
How maintenance-intensive is the system?
Calibration, spare parts, long-term availability?
6. Service & Support
Is there fast service and competent contact persons?
Response times, maintenance contracts, training?
Manufacturer experience specifically in the field of corrosion testing?
7. Costs & Efficiency
Investment costs vs. scope of services
Operating costs (media consumption, energy, maintenance)
Lifespan and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
In short:
Standard → Test item → Capacity → Future-proofing → Operation → Service → Costs