Standard Corrosion Test methodology for Sheet Metal Processing Fluids

A movement to adopt standard corrosion testing methods for sheet metal processing fluids is underway.¹ The group formed to accomplish this mission consists of consumer and supplier representatives of both sheet steel and related processing fluids. Specifically addressed are the corrosion tests employed for qualification of coil steel ship-out protectants, pre-lubricants, and fabrication plant lubricants and rust preventatives. Although the actual requirements of sheet steel and automotive panel corrosion protection is relatively similar throughout each respective industry, a wide variety of in-house developed corrosion tests exist. These individualized tests often dictate diverse requirements for similar applications.

Standardizing corrosion test methods can be seen as a first step in implementing the processing fluids compatibility concept. Ranking the importance of the requirements that are the backbone of the process fluid compatibility issue, corrosion and stain protection are the primary control point. As part of the larger picture, standardizing corrosion test methods will aid in the quality and productivity improvements required to meet the global automotive challenge.