5.1 Coil-coated metals are subjected to a wide range of environmental stresses. Corrosion at cut edges, damage points, and fabricated areas can occur and lead to premature failure. Proper preparation and rating of test panels produces meaningful test results that allows comparisons between metal substrates and their pretreatments as well as between coating systems.

5.2 Laboratory-prepared test panels give a relative comparison of the substrates and coating systems under test, but may not duplicate all of the stresses imposed on manufactured components. Validation of results on a manufactured product is recommended.

5.3 Laboratory accelerated corrosion testing is useful in evaluating relative performance of new and existing metal coatings, pretreatments, and paints. It is up to the participating parties to agree on the significance of these tests to actual use.

1.1 This guide has been written specifically for coil-coated metal building products.

1.2 This guide applies to preparation, testing, and rating of line-coated and laboratory-coated test panels for the purpose of comparing and ranking the panels for corrosion resistance and other related properties.

1.3 Testing may include accelerated laboratory corrosion tests and outdoor exposure tests.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.