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MIL-STD 883 Resistance to Solvents

MIL-STD-883 resistance to solvents testing, tests markings on component parts that are illegible when subjected to solvents. These solvents generally won’t cause detrimental, mechanical or electrical damage. Nor will they lead to deterioration of materials or finishes. However, before testing check to ensure that there are no conflicting requirements for the finishes and markings in question.

The formulation of solvents presented  is considered typical for corrosive atmosphere testing. It is representative of the desired stringency as far as the usual coatings and markings are concerned. On the other hand, many available solvents which could be used are not sufficiently active, too stringent, or dangerous to humans.

Keystone Compliance is a corrosion lab with significant experience in MIL-883 resistance to solvents testing experience. Our test engineers have an in-depth knowledge of corrosion testing for commercial, military, and aerospace products. This knowledge is mainly drawn from MIL-STD-883K, but also includes MIL-883G resistance to solvents and MIL-883H resistance to solvents.

The following information is extremely technical in nature. It provides a summary of MIL STD-883, Method 2015.4 resistance to solvents testing. Even though the language is from 883 resistance to solvents, it applies previous versions of the standard. This includes MIL-STD 883G resistance to solvents and MIL-STD 883H resistance to solvents.

What are the Proper Solvent Solutions for Solvents Resistance Testing?

The solvent solutions used in this test must consist of the following:

  • Solvent (a), at 20-30℃ is a mixture consisting of the following:
    • One part by volume of an aliphatic alcohol and/or aliphatic ester, USP grade or better.
    • Three parts of mineral spirits in accordance with MIL-PRF-680. Or three parts of a mixture of 80 percent kerosene and 20 percent ethylbenzene. All parts are measured by volume.
  • Solvent (b), is semi-aqueous or nonaqueous based organic solvent e.g., a terpene or heterocyclic compound.
  • Solvent (c) has been deleted, but will be replaced when a suitable substitute is found.
  • Solvent (d), at 63°C to 70°C, is a mixture consisting of the following:
    • 42 parts by volume of deionized water.
    • 1 part by volume of propylene glycol monomethyl ether.
    • 1 part by volume of monoethanolamide or equivalent inorganic base to achieve the same pH.

What Safety Aspects of Solvent Solutions Must be Considered?

The solvent solutions listed above exhibit some potential health and safety hazards. The following safety precautions should be observed in the resistance to solvents testing lab:

  • Avoid contact with eyes.
  • Avoid prolonged contact with skin.
  • Avoid contact with very hot surfaces.
  • Avoid open flames.
  • Provide adequate ventilation.

What are the Materials Needed for the Best Resistance to Solvents Testing?

The best resistance to solvents labs should have the proper vessels and brushes. The vessel serves as the solvent container, and should be made of inert material. It must be of sufficient size to permit complete immersion of the specimens in the solvent solutions. A toothbrush with a handle made of a nonreactive material is best for applying solvents to test materials.

The brush has at least three long rows of firm bristles, with the free ends mostly in the same plane. The toothbrush is used exclusively with a single solvent.  When there is any evidence of softening, bending, wear, or loss of bristles, it shall be discarded.

What is the Proper Procedure for Contamination Testing?

The specimens subjected to this test shall be divided into groups. Each group shall be individually subjected to one of the following procedures:

  • The first group shall be subjected to the solvent (a)  maintained at a temperature of 25°C 5°C.
  • The second group shall be subjected to the solvent (b) maintained at a suitable temperature.
  • The third solution has been deleted.
  • The fourth group shall be subjected to the solvent (d) maintained at a temperature of 63°C to 70°C.

The specimens and the bristle portion of the brush are immersed for at least 1 minute in the specified solution. Immediately following emersion, the specimen is brushed with normal hand pressure for 10 strokes where marking is. Immediately after brushing, the procedure is repeated two additional times, for a total of three.

The brush stroke is directed in a forward direction, across the surface of the specimen being tested. After completion of the third immersion and brushing, devices shall be rinsed and all surfaces air blown dry. After 5 minutes, the specimens are examined to determine the extent, if any, of deterioration that was incurred.

What is the Failure Criteria for Resistance to Solvents Compliance?

Evidence of damage to the device constitutes failure. The disappearance of any specified markings, in whole or in part constitutes failure. Marking must be readily identifiable from 6 inches away, in  normal room lighting, without magnification greater than 3X.

Who Should You Trust for Your Resistance to Solvents Certification Needs?

Keystone Compliance has been recognized as one of the best resistance to solvents laboratories in the country. We employ the best test engineers, provided with high quality equipment. Contact us to learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their compliance testing needs.

MIL-STD-883 testing contains several test methods. For more information about these test methods, please click on one of the links below.