Radio Frequency Testing

NSS (Neutral Salt Spray)

• Test duration: 24–480 hours (1–20 days of continuous spraying)
• Sample prep + report: add 3–5 business days
• Total project: typically 1–4 weeks

CASS (Copper-Accelerated Acetic Acid Salt Spray)

• Test duration: 8–96 hours (shorter due to acceleration)
• Total project: typically 1–2 weeks

Cyclic Corrosion Testing (CCT)

• Test duration: 2–8 weeks depending on cycle definition
• Total project: typically 3–10 weeks

Q1: What factors most affect salt spray testing cost?

The primary cost drivers are: (1) Test method — CASS costs slightly more than NSS due to additional chemicals and higher temperature; CCT is the most expensive due to complex cycle programming; (2) Test duration — longer tests occupy the chamber longer, directly increasing cost; (3) Number of samples — more samples may require additional chamber space or runs; (4) Evaluation complexity — basic visual assessment is standard; contact resistance measurement or cross-section analysis adds cost.

Q2: Can multiple products share a single salt spray run?

Yes, if they require the same test method and duration. The key constraint is chamber space — samples must not overlap or block spray patterns. Many labs offer shared-run pricing where your samples occupy a portion of the chamber. This is cost-effective for routine quality checks. However, for certification-submission tests, a dedicated run is recommended to avoid any cross-contamination concerns.

Q3: How much does sample preparation add to the cost?

If you deliver samples already masked and scribed (per the applicable standard), preparation cost is minimal. If the lab handles masking, scribing, and cleaning, expect an additional fee per sample. Scribing in particular requires precision — a poorly executed scribe can invalidate the test. Most labs recommend that critical samples be scribed under lab supervision even if you mask them yourself.

Q4: What happens if my sample fails — do I pay for a retest?

Yes. A failed test still produces a valid report — the test itself was completed correctly, the result was non-conforming. If you modify the product and resubmit, a new test run is required at full cost. To minimize retest risk, consider a pre-screening or pilot test at a shorter duration (e.g., 24 hours) before committing to a full 480-hour run.

Q5: Is salt spray testing required for regulatory compliance?

For most electronic products, salt spray testing is not a standalone regulatory requirement for market access (unlike safety or EMC). However, it is commonly required by: (1) Customer specifications in automotive, military, and marine sectors; (2) Industry standards for specific product types; (3) Quality control programs for coating suppliers. If your customer or specification calls for salt spray data, it becomes a de facto market access requirement.

Q6: How do I minimize the total project timeline?

Three strategies: (1) Prepare samples properly before submission — complete masking, scribing, and documentation upfront; (2) Confirm the test method and duration before booking chamber time — last-minute changes delay scheduling; (3) If the test duration is long (480+ hours), ask the lab about weekend and holiday monitoring to avoid unnecessary pauses.