Cyclic Corrosion Test (CCT)
Cyclic Corrosion Test (CCT) is an advanced laboratory method used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of coated metals, such as galvanized steel or painted products. It is considered far more representative of real-world environments than traditional, constant-condition salt spray tests.
Purpose and Mechanism
The CCT achieves greater realism by simulating the constantly changing conditions found outdoors. It involves cycling the test specimen through various distinct environments, including:
- Wet Periods: Exposure to salt fog or high humidity.
- Dry Periods: Exposure to forced air or low humidity to allow surfaces to dry.
- Temperature Variations: Periods of heat, cold, or ambient temperature changes.
This cycling promotes the natural formation of corrosion mechanisms, such as rusting, blistering, and paint adhesion failure, which do not typically occur under steady salt fog conditions. The CCT provides engineers with a highly reliable measure of a material's expected service life and durability in its intended application.