The salt spray test has been an industry wide standard corrosion test since its conception in 1914. A literary review of its history shows that it has· always been thought of as inconsistent and unreliable but, for a variety of reasons, has continued to be used.
A study of more than 55 salt spray cabinets was performed using a controlled lot of parts and questionnaires on cabinet operation. Although the tested parts varied from mildly corroded to extremely rusted no factor could be found to account for the differences.
Although the test has its uses it should be studied by an industry formed committee which should make recommendations as to further standardization and corrections to the test.
A lengthy chronological bibliography aids the reader in further study and reference.