This standard describes the factors that influence laboratory corrosion tests. These factors include test specimen preparation, apparatus, test conditions (solution composition, temperature, velocity, aeration, volume, method of supporting test specimens, duration of test), methods of cleaning test specimens, evaluation of results, and calculation of corrosion rates. This standard also emphasizes the importance of recording all pertinent data and provides a check list for reporting test data.

Note that the evaluation of localized attack is not within the scope of this standard. The ultimate purpose is better correlation of results in the future and the reduction of conflicting reports through a more detailed recording of meaningful factors and conditions.

Experience shows that all metals and alloys do not respond alike to the many factors that control corrosion and that ¿accelerated¿ corrosion tests may not yield meaningful results. Consequently, it is impractical to propose an inflexible standard laboratory corrosion testing procedure for general use except for material qualification tests, where standardization is obviously required.

In designing any corrosion test, consideration must be given to the various factors discussed in this test method because they have been found to greatly affect the results obtained. It is prudent to discuss various aspects of the design of any corrosion test, including, but not limited to, test duration, test specimen surface area-to-volume ratio, accelerating factors, and test apparatus, with a corrosion scientist or engineer for consideration of these factors.