Salt Spray Corrosion Comparison: PVD vs Multi-Layer Nickel Chrome (ASTM B117)
Engineering Overview: Technical comparison of ASTM B117 salt fog endurance: evaluating 240h electroplated Chrome against 1000h+ vacuum PVD titanium coatings.
Technical & Engineering Specifications
| PVD Ceramic | > 1000 Hours (EN 1670 Grade 5) |
|---|---|
| Test Environment | 5% NaCl Salt Fog at 35°C Continuous Exposure |
| Testing Standard | ASTM B117 / EN 1670 Corrosion Standards |
| Electroplated Chrome | 240 - 480 Hours (EN 1670 Grade 4) |
Accelerated Salt Fog Performance
In architectural door hardware, corrosion performance is quantified via continuous ASTM B117 Neutral Salt Spray (NSS) chamber exposure:
- Galvanic Nickel-Chrome: Micro-porosities allow chloride penetration, showing pitting and blistering after 240 to 480 hours.
- Vacuum PVD Ceramic (TiN/ZrN): Chemically inert ceramic thin film bonded directly to solid brass, surviving $>1000 ext{ hours}$ (EN 1670 Grade 5) with zero pitting or discoloration.
Frequently Asked Engineering & Selection Questions
Q1: How does PVD compare to chrome plating in salt spray testing?
PVD withstands over 1,000 hours of salt spray without corrosion, more than double the lifespan of traditional electroplated chrome.