ASTM D4340 Standard Test Method for Corrosion of Cast Aluminum Alloys in Engine Coolants Under Heat-Rejecting Conditions
9. Test Conditions
9.1 The aluminum heat-transfer specimen temperature is maintained at 135 +/- 1°C (275 +/- 2°F) throughout the test by means of a thermocouple connected to the temperature controller. The thermocouple is inserted into one of the thermocouple holes in the test specimen. The other thermocouple hole is used for occasional precise temperature measurements.
9.2 The test is run continuously for 1 week (168 h).
9.3 Duplicate tests are required.
10. Preparation of Test Specimen
10.1 The following steps are necessary in the preparation of the aluminum test specimen for maximum repeatability and reproducibility:
10.2 Polish the test specimen progressively with coarse-, medium-, and fine-grit emery cloth or paper, and finally with 600-grit paper.
10.3 Wash the test specimen with warm tap water, then rinse with distilled or deionized water, and finally with acetone. Make sure thermocouple holes are free of metal chips and polishing debris. Flush the holes with acetone and remove excess liquid with a glass capillary pipet or other suitable means.
10.4 Dry the test specimen in a vacuum oven for a minimum of 4 h at 65 to 90°C (149 to 194°F) to remove residual liquid that may be retained in a porous casting. From this point, use thin cotton gloves, or equivalent, to handle the specimen to avoid weighing errors.
10.5 Remove the specimen from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature in a desiccator.
10.6 Weigh the specimen to 0.1 mg using an analytical balance. The test sample may be reused if desired, but shall be prepared in accordance with 10.1 - 10.6.
