M SERIES SALT FOG CHAMBERS & HUMIDITY TEST CHAMBERS FOR INDUSTRIAL CORROSION TESTING
Auto Technology M Series Salt Fog (Spray) & Humidity Chambers are built for laboratories that want to run corrosion testing in a traditional steel, water-jacket-heated chamber architecture. Designed for ASTM B117, ISO 9227, MIL-STD-810 Method 509.7, and related procedures, the M Series is especially well suited for laboratories that need repeatable, traceable, and certifiable testing while maintaining continuity with historical corrosion programs developed around legacy steel environmental chambers.
Traditional Steel Chamber Architecture
Designed for laboratories that prefer a legacy-style steel, water-jacket-heated chamber environment for ASTM B117 and related work.
Built for Data Continuity
A strong fit for labs that compare current results to years of historical salt fog data generated in traditional steel chambers.
Built and Supported in the USA
Built in Ohio with U.S.-based service, parts, consumables, and long-term support for serious corrosion testing programs.
Tell us your standard, chamber size, utilities, sample loading, and any required options such as humidity, SO2, cyclic controls, or horizontal dispersion towers.
Why M Series
Auto Technology’s M Series salt fog chambers are designed for laboratories that need repeatable, standards-driven accelerated corrosion test equipment for coatings, plated parts, fasteners, connectors, hardware, and assemblies. These chambers reproduce controlled salt spray, salt fog, and humidity environments through a combination of indirect cabinet heating, conditioned atomizing air, engineered fog generation, and corrosion-resistant specimen support systems. This traditional architecture provides the precise environmental control necessary for strict passivation verification testing on stainless steel, as well as critical chem film validation testing and chromate conversion coating qualification on aerospace-grade aluminum components.
The chamber family is suitable for ASTM B117 salt spray testing, ISO 9227 NSS / AASS, MIL-STD-810 Method 509.7, and a wide range of industry and OEM procedures. Optional packages extend capability into CASS, SO2 / Kesternich, ASTM D2247 humidity, and selected ASTM G85 methods.
Reliable salt fog data depends on more than spraying salt solution. Chamber geometry, anti-drip cover design, spray tower and nozzle performance, bubble tower conditioning, cabinet heating, drainage, exhaust setup, and specimen loading all affect collection rate, exposure consistency, and overall test repeatability.
Why Chamber Construction Matters
ASTM B117 has been used for corrosion testing for more than 75 years. Over that time, much of the published salt spray data, internal qualification work, and long-term corrosion databases used by industry were generated in steel environmental chambers with indirect heating systems.
Because corrosion testing is often comparative, many laboratories depend on historical results when evaluating coatings, materials, hardware, or supplier changes. Maintaining a chamber environment consistent with traditional testing practice can help preserve comparability with earlier data.
Changing chamber construction materials can change the chamber environment. Differences in thermal behavior, condensation patterns, and fog movement may affect result correlation for laboratories that rely on legacy corrosion data.
The Auto Technology M Series maintains the traditional architecture used by many corrosion laboratories for decades, including:
- Indirect water-jacket cabinet heating
- Bubble tower conditioned atomizing air
- Condensate-managing chamber geometry
- Stable fog generation designed around ASTM B117 operating practice
Chamber Design
Primary Design Elements
- Angled clear cover with anti-drip slope to prevent solution from dripping onto specimens
- Water-jacket heating system for indirect, stable cabinet temperature control consistent with ASTM B117
- Multi-function bubble tower for atomizing air conditioning and fog consistency
- Wet bulb and exposed RTD measurement for monitoring chamber conditions and estimating humidity
- High-precision fog towers and nozzles designed to prevent direct spray impingement on specimens while generating uniform fog distribution
- 55-gallon solution tank with air agitation for consistent solution mixing and delivery
Why This Design Matters
The M Series combines indirect cabinet heating, conditioned atomizing air, controlled fog generation, and a 55-gallon agitated solution tank to support stable, repeatable salt fog performance over long-duration tests.
Humidity Operation
For simple humidity operation, the chamber can be run with DI water in the solution tank. For formal humidity methods such as ASTM D2247 or related procedures, the correct humidity and drain configuration should still be specified at time of order.
Standards & Setup
Ready-to-Run Standards
The M Series salt fog chambers are designed for many of the most commonly specified corrosion test methods used by coatings laboratories, automotive suppliers, aerospace programs, electronics manufacturers, plating operations, and general industrial qualification teams. The standards below are separated into procedures that typically run in a standard base chamber configuration and procedures that are supported with specific option packages.
- ASTM B117 — Salt Spray (Salt Fog) Corrosion Test / Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray Apparatus
- ISO 9227 — NSS / AASS salt spray testing
- ASTM G85 A1 — Acetic acid salt fog
- GB/T 10125 — NSS / AASS salt spray methods
- JIS Z 2371 — Neutral salt spray testing
- ISO 7253 — Neutral salt spray testing
- IEC 60068-2-11 — Salt mist environmental testing
- EIA-364-31 — Electrical connector corrosion testing
- ISO 9022-4 — Environmental testing for optical equipment
- MIL-STD-810 Method 509.7 — Salt fog environmental testing
- MIL-STD-202 Method 101
- MIL-STD-883 Method 1009
- MIL-STD-750 Method 1046.3
- MIL-STD-331 C3
- EN 13523-8
- BMW AA-0213
- Jaguar TPJLR.52.252 / TPJLR.52.253
- VW 80000 K-06 / K-07
Supported with Required Option Packages
- ASTM B368 — Copper Accelerated Acetic Acid Salt Spray (CASS)
- ASTM G85 A2 — Supported with required options
- ASTM G85 A3 — Supported with required options
- ASTM G85 A4 — Supported with required options
- ASTM D2247 — Constant high-humidity exposure with required options
- ASTM D1735 — Water fog exposure using salt spray-style apparatus with required options
- ISO 6270-3 — Humidity / condensation exposure with required options
- DIN 50018 — SO2 condensation corrosion testing with required options
- JIS H 8502 — Salt spray and CASS / SO2 variants with required options
- Nissan MES-M0007 5.22
- Toyota TSH1552G
- MIL-DTL-5541 — Common conversion-coating specification referencing ASTM B117 salt spray
Important: Not every listed procedure runs in a standard base chamber configuration. Certain methods require additional chamber packages such as SO2 gas dosing, elevated-temperature construction, humidity piping, wet-bottom drain configuration, or cyclic controls depending on the specific standard.
Standards-Driven Configuration Requirements
| Standard / Method | Required Add-Ons | Recommended Add-Ons |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM B368 / ISO 9227 CASS / JIS H 8502 CASS | High Temperature Package | Wet Bottom Drain Assembly |
| ASTM G85 A2 / ASTM G85 A3 / GB/T 10125 CASS | High Temperature Package | Wet Bottom Drain Assembly |
| ASTM G85 A4 / Related SO2 Methods | SO2 Package | Cyclic Controls |
| DIN 50018 / JIS H 8502 SO2 Variants | SO2 Package | Cyclic Controls |
| ASTM D2247 / ASTM D1735 / ISO 6270-3 | Humidity Pipe Assembly + Wet Bottom Drain Assembly | Operator planning for humidity-specific operation |
Humidity capability note: simple 100% humidity operation can be done by using DI water in the solution tank, but formal humidity procedures and standards-driven setups should be specified in advance so the chamber is built correctly.
Simple Humidity Capability
For basic legacy-style humidity exposure, you can run 100% humidity by adding DI water to the solution tank. More formal humidity procedures such as ASTM D2247 should still be specified up front so the correct configuration can be supplied.
Sizes & Configurations
The chamber size data below is organized by profile style so it is easier to compare. Standard models are shown first, followed by high-profile and low-profile variants. The M Series is available in multiple chamber sizes so you can match the equipment to your parts, throughput, operator reach, and available floor space.
What changes as chamber size increases? Width grows first, then overall loading span, specimen capacity, tank footprint, and installation space. Profile selection changes usable height and operator reach more than it changes the basic testing architecture.
Profile Selection Guidance
Compare footprint dimensions across the M-Series line, ranging from the compact Size 15 (37" x 42") to the high-capacity Size 512.
Use low profile for small parts and coupons, standard depth for traditional loading, and high / deep profile for extra-large parts.
Standard Profile Models
Standard Profile Model Chart
| Model | Part Number | Internal Volume | Exposure Zone (in) | Exposure Zone (cm) | Chamber Only (in) | Chamber + Tank (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
15-LView Photo ↗ |
C100015-L | 12 ft³ / 339 L | 22 × 30 × 29 | 57 × 76 × 75 | 37 × 42 × 52 | 73 × 42 × 52 |
| 22 | C100022 | 30 ft³ / 849 L | 45 × 30 × 38 | 116 × 76 × 98 | 64 × 42 × 63 | 100 × 42 × 63 |
| 23 | C100023 | 68 ft³ / 1925 L | 72 × 42 × 38 | 183 × 107 × 98 | 95 × 54 × 67 | 131 × 54 × 67 |
| 24 | C100024 | 100 ft³ / 2831 L | 93 × 48 × 38 | 237 × 122 × 98 | 118 × 60 × 67 | 154 × 60 × 67 |
| 410 | C100041 | 130 ft³ / 3681 L | 120 × 48 × 38 | 305 × 122 × 98 | 150 × 60 × 67 | 186 × 60 × 67 |
| 512 | C100052 | 194 ft³ / 5493 L | 144 × 60 × 38 | 366 × 153 × 98 | 182 × 67 × 70 | 218 × 67 × 70 |
View Low Profile Model Chart
| Model | Part Number | Internal Volume | Exposure Zone (in) | Exposure Zone (cm) | Chamber Only (in) | Chamber + Tank (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
15-L View Photo ↗ |
C100015-L | 12 ft³ / 339 L | 22.65 × 30.27 × 29.64 | 57.5 × 76.9 × 75.3 | 37 × 42 × 52 | 73 × 42 × 52 |
| 22-L | C100022-L | 24 ft³ / 679 L | 45.65 × 30.27 × 29.64 | 116 × 76.9 × 75.3 | 64 × 42 × 54 | 100 × 42 × 54 |
| 23-L | C100023-L | 52 ft³ / 1472 L | 72.27 × 42.25 × 29.64 | 183.6 × 107.3 × 75.3 | 95 × 54 × 58 | 131 × 54 × 58 |
| 24-L | C100024-L | 78 ft³ / 2208 L | 93.65 × 48.27 × 29.64 | 237.9 × 122.6 × 75.3 | 118 × 60 × 58 | 154 × 60 × 58 |
| 410-L | C100041-L | 100 ft³ / 2831 L | 120.27 × 48.27 × 29.64 | 305.5 × 122.6 × 75.3 | 150 × 60 × 58 | 186 × 60 × 58 |
View High / Deep Profile Model Chart
| Model | Part Number | Internal Volume | Exposure Zone (in) | Exposure Zone (cm) | Chamber Only (in) | Chamber + Tank (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22-H | C100022-H | 38 ft³ / 1076 L | 45 × 30 × 48 | 116 × 76 × 121 | 64 × 42 × 73 | 100 × 42 × 73 |
| 23-H | C100023-H | 85 ft³ / 2406 L | 72 × 42 × 48 | 183 × 107 × 121 | 95 × 54 × 77 | 131 × 54 × 77 |
| 24-H | C100024-H | 126 ft³ / 3567 L | 93 × 48 × 48 | 237 × 122 × 121 | 118 × 60 × 77 | 154 × 60 × 77 |
| 410-H | C100041-H | 161 ft³ / 4558 L | 120 × 48 × 48 | 305 × 122 × 121.9 | 150 × 60 × 77 | 186 × 60 × 77 |
Footprint Changes Based on Configuration
M Series chamber with external solution tank and side venting, showing required spacing between the tank and chamber for access, along with rear clearance for opening the chamber lid.
Important: chamber-only dimensions do not represent the full installed footprint. Solution tank position, DI feed, scrubber selection, exhaust routing, and power-vent requirements can all affect floor space, aisle clearance, and final chamber placement.
If you are replacing an existing steel chamber, confirm the internal size, tank location, utility connections, drain access, and vent path before purchase.
Custom and walk-in configurations are also available for higher throughput, oversized assemblies, or room-scale corrosion test programs.
Options & Racking
Recommended Add-Ons Based on Lab Setup
Do you have a supply of pressurized DI water?
Bubble Tower DI Holding Tank / Hybrid Feed System (C910107)
Required for laboratories that do not have a pressurized DI water supply available.
This option provides a reliable way to keep the humidifying tower supplied when a plant DI line is not available.
Common for labs replacing or matching older chamber installations or operating in facilities without DI plumbing.
Do you need fog to shut down automatically or when unattended?
Shut Down Timer (C702200)
Allows automatic shutoff of air to the humidifying tower. Adjustable from 1 minute to 199 hours and 59 minutes.
Do you have proper ventilation?
Recirculating Scrubber / Jet Exhaust System (C260315)
Helps avoid the need for new ventilation while reducing water and sewer consumption compared with a constant-flow scrubber system.
Potential savings of up to $4,910 per year in water and sewer costs compared with a standard scrubber.
*Savings based on 35 operating hours/week comparing a standard 3 GPM constant-flow scrubber to a recirculating model with a 7-gallon fill. Assumes an average combined water/sewer rate of $15 per 1,000 gallons.
Scrubber / Jet Exhaust Assembly (C700200)
Recommended for laboratories without direct ventilation. Requires city water supply.
Direct venting to the outside is still the best option. If your run to the outside exceeds 15 feet, add a Power Vent.
Power Vent (C261820)
Recommended when exhaust runs exceed 15 feet to actively pull exhaust from the chamber and maintain proper test conditions.
Do you need higher humidity inside your chamber?
Wet Bottom Drain Assembly (C260455)
Recommended for creating higher humidity in the exposure zone by allowing test solution to accumulate on the floor of the cabinet.
This configuration is strongly recommended for larger chambers including sizes 23, 24, 410, and 512.
Scrubber / Jet Exhaust & Regulator + Wet Bottom Drain (C260300)
Recommended for laboratories without ventilation that also require the Wet Bottom Drain Assembly.
For simple legacy-style humidity operation, many laboratories also run 100% humidity by using DI water in the solution tank. Formal humidity procedures such as ASTM D2247 should still be specified up front.
Do your parts interfere with the standard center tower layout?
Horizontal vs. Vertical Fog Tower Configuration
The standard vertical center tower configuration works well for many traditional panel and coupon programs, especially when using shelves or support racks. The optional horizontal dispersion tower configuration moves the fog distribution system toward the back of the chamber to open more usable space in the center of the exposure zone.
Standard Vertical Tower
Center-mounted fog tower with shelves shown for comparison of standard loading layout.
Optional Horizontal Tower
Moves the fog dispersion system toward the back wall to open the center of the chamber.
The horizontal dispersion tower option is especially helpful for laboratories testing larger assemblies, irregular production parts, or custom fixtures that would otherwise compete with the standard center-mounted tower position.
Racking and Sample Handling
Standard with a new chamber: front and back ladder racks plus one Plastisol-coated support bar per ladder rack for basic sample support and suspension.
Standard support ladders and bars.
Slotted support bars.
Slotted support racks.
Heavy duty shelves.
Options and Standards-Driven Customization
| Option | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Standard DI Feed Configuration | For laboratories with pressurized DI water available at the installation point |
| Bubble Tower DI Holding Tank / Hybrid Feed | Required when pressurized DI water is not available |
| Horizontal Dispersion Tower System | Moves the fog dispersion tower from the center of the chamber toward the back wall to open usable space for larger parts and assemblies |
| High Temperature Package | Upgrades cabinet materials and insulation for operation up to 50 °C, commonly specified for CASS testing |
| Humidity Pipe Assembly | Supports humidity-oriented procedures when specified with the appropriate drain and operating configuration |
| Wet Bottom Drain Assembly | Allows condensate or solution to remain on the chamber floor to increase humidity inside the exposure zone |
| SO2 Package | Injects metered customer-supplied SO2 into the chamber for standards such as ASTM G85 Annex 4 and related methods |
| Microprocessor / Cyclic Controls | Supports automatic timing and sequence control for more advanced procedures |
| Independent Data Logger | Provides additional recording capability for chamber-related temperatures and operating data |
| Automatic Shut-Down Timer | Supports unattended operation and timed shutoff of humidifying air |
| Combination Jet Exhaust / Wet Bottom Drain Assembly | Facility option for ventilation and drainage where outside venting is limited |
| Recirculating Scrubber / Jet Exhaust System | Water-saving alternative that recirculates scrubber water instead of using continuous fresh-water flow |
| Power Vent | Recommended when exhaust runs exceed 15 feet |
| External Condensate Collection Package | Allows collection-rate checks without opening the chamber cover |
Need replacement parts, salts, solutions, or common accessories? Buy direct from the Auto Technology Equipment Parts Store.
Specs & Installation
Utilities, Electrical, and Operating Data
| Model | 110/1/60 | 208/1/60 | 208/3/60 | 240/1/60 | 240/3/60 | 460/3/60 | 575/3/60 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | 34 Amps | 21 Amps | — | 20 Amps | 18 Amps | 7 Amps | 10 Amps |
| 22 | 34 Amps | 21 Amps | — | 20 Amps | 18 Amps | 7 Amps | 10 Amps |
| 23 | — | — | 34 Amps | — | 30 Amps | 15 Amps | 13 Amps |
| 24 | — | — | 34 Amps | — | 30 Amps | 15 Amps | 13 Amps |
| 410 | — | — | 34 Amps | — | 30 Amps | 15 Amps | 13 Amps |
| 512 | — | — | — | — | 30 Amps | 15 Amps | 13 Amps |
Included Labware, Weight, and Daily Consumption
| Model | Cover Lifter Type | Crated Weight | Funnels | Cylinders | Estimated Daily Solution Use | Estimated Daily DI Water Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Gas | 1000 lbs | 2 | 2 | 10 gal | 10 gal |
| 22 | Gas | 1350 lbs | 2 | 2 | 10 gal | 10 gal |
| 23 | Air | 2000 lbs | 4 | 4 | 20 gal | 20 gal |
| 24 | Air | 3000 lbs | 4 | 4 | 20 gal | 20 gal |
| 410 | Air | -- | 6 | 6 | 30 gal | 30 gal |
| 512 | Air | -- | 18 | 18 | 35 gal | 35 gal |
Facilities, Utilities, and Installation
Water and Drain Connections
- Water jacket drain: 1.25 in copper or galvanized steel
- Chamber drain: 1.25 in O.D. PVC
- DI water supply: 3/8 in O.D. poly tubing from a pressurized DI water source, typically 25–100 psi
Compressed Air
- Compressed air supply: 3/8 in O.D. poly tubing from a clean, dry air source
- Typical pressure range: 30–50 psi
Ventilation Requirements
- Salt fog cabinet exhaust should vent directly to the exterior of the building whenever possible
- Do not connect the chamber exhaust to a shared plenum or duct serving other instruments
- Use 1.25 in PVC piping for the chamber vent connection
- Power vent recommended when exhaust runs exceed 15 ft
Facility Environment
- Flat, level floor capable of supporting the installed chamber weight
- Nearby floor drain recommended for condensate and cleaning operations
- Room temperature: 20–25 °C (68–77 °F)
- Room humidity: 45 ±10% RH, non-condensing
Important installation warning: improper installation can affect chamber operation and compromise test integrity.
We strongly discourage installation in a warehouse, boiler room, garage, factory floor, paint room, powder mixing room, or other areas with frequent dust, frequent door opening, or widely varying temperature, humidity, or air-pressure conditions.
For a complete overview of laboratory layout considerations including utilities, ventilation, and spacing requirements, see our corrosion chamber room requirements guide.
Ordering Information
- Please specify voltage and phase when ordering
- Prices quoted are valid for 30 days
- Terms: 50% down payment, 50% Net 30 days (pending credit approval)
- Shipping: F.O.B. Strongsville, Ohio
- Delivery: based on production levels at time order is received and after receipt of down payment
Photos & Video
Chamber Design
M Series salt fog chamber installed in a laboratory environment for standards-driven salt spray and humidity testing.
Chamber interior showing exposure zone layout, specimen support hardware, and fog-generation components.
Bubble tower conditioning hardware and chamber controls used to support stable salt fog generation.
Solution tank and mixing system used to maintain consistent salt solution delivery during testing.
Wet and dry RTDs installed inside the M Series chamber for monitoring cabinet conditions during salt fog and humidity testing.
Close-up of the M Series black polyurea liner showing the durable, corrosion-resistant interior chamber surface.
Auto Technology ASTM B117 and ISO 9227 Corrosion Chamber Introduction
Support Products, Training, and Service
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| ASTM B117 Salt | Salt conforming to ASTM B117 for solution preparation |
| Calibration Certificate | Documentation for chamber-related calibration records where required |
| pH Meter Kit | For checking mixed solution and collected condensate pH |
| Mass Loss Test Panels | Panels for ASTM B117-related mass-loss or chamber-verification work |
| DI Water Drum | Bulk DI water supply for chamber use where needed |
| CASS Solution Drum | Prepared solution support for CASS-related work |
| Premixed 5% Salt Solution | Ready-to-use ASTM B117-style salt solution for simpler lab operation |
| Salt Fog Training Class | Operator and quality training for correct chamber use and maintenance |
| Start-Up Service | Commissioning support after installation |
| Start-Up Kit | Basic ASTM B117-related test accessories |
| Preventive Maintenance Kits | Annual maintenance replacement items |
| Accredited Calibration Support | Qualified service support for calibration and quality-system needs |
Buy direct from the Auto Technology Store: equipment parts, test accessories, salts, solutions, and support items.
FAQ
Why choose a steel M Series chamber instead of a non-steel cabinet?
Many laboratories prefer traditional steel chamber architecture because historical ASTM B117 and related corrosion data were often generated in steel, water-jacket-heated chambers. That can matter when trying to preserve continuity with legacy corrosion databases or long-standing qualification programs.
Can the M Series run 100% humidity?
For basic legacy-style humidity operation, you can run 100% humidity by using DI water in the solution tank. If you need a formal humidity procedure such as ASTM D2247 or another humidity-specific method, the chamber should be configured appropriately at the time of order.
What types of humidity testing can the M Series perform?
The M Series can perform water fog humidity testing by filling the solution tank with DI water. Humidified compressed air from the bubble tower passes through the atomizer, creating a fine aerosol of water droplets throughout the exposure zone.
Condensing humidity testing is available when the chamber is equipped with an optional wet bottom and bubbler system. Water vapor generated inside the chamber condenses on cooler specimen surfaces, creating a continuous moisture film.
How many test panels can fit inside an M Series chamber?
When using the Auto Technology 23" × 8.5" Slotted Test Panel Tray , the following capacities can typically be achieved with small, flat test panels:
- M Series Size 15: Approximately 80 panels (2 racks)
- M Series Size 22: Approximately 200 panels (5 racks)
- M Series Size 23: Approximately 320 panels (8 racks)
- M Series Size 24: Approximately 400 panels (10 racks)
These capacities represent maximum capacity for small, flat coupons. Larger flat panels or panels placed too closely together may create shadowing effects that interfere with proper fog exposure and reduce the practical number of specimens that can be tested at one time.
What if my lab does not have pressurized DI water?
If your lab does not have pressurized DI water, the Bubble Tower DI Holding Tank / Hybrid Feed System is the common alternative.
What if my parts are too large for the standard center tower layout?
Horizontal dispersion towers are available for larger parts and assemblies. This moves the fog dispersion arrangement away from the center and opens more usable space inside the exposure zone.
What comes standard with a new M Series chamber?
A new chamber includes front and back ladder racks plus one Plastisol-coated support bar per ladder rack for basic sample support and suspension. Additional slotted bars, trays, and heavy-duty shelves are available depending on your parts and loading needs.
What else do I need besides the chamber to run ASTM B117?
Most labs also need a pH meter, hydrometer or salimeter, collection funnels and graduated cylinders, a way to record operating data, proper water and salt, and—depending on the quality system—training, accredited calibration, and proficiency testing support.