An Industrial Atmosphere Corrosion Test for Electrical Contacts and Connections

Abstract

A test is described which can be used to accelerate the deterioration of contact surfaces in a way that follows that experienced in natural environments in an industrial area. Porosity testing of precious metal platings is not sufficient to evaluate contact structures where the criterion is satisfactory performance and not visual appearance. The historical background of the industrial atmosphere test is given and some examples to illustrate the correlation of test results with service experience.