SSPC-Guide 9
July 1, 1994
SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings
Technology Guide NO. 9
Guide for Atmospheric Testing of Coatings in the Field
1. Scope
1.1 This guide covers the procedures for planning, perform-
ing, and documenting field evaluations of atmospheric testing
of coatings applied to steel panels or steel structures.
1.2 It is intended for coating systems applied to new or
previously coated structures.
1.3 It is intended for use by coatings specifiers, end users,
manufacturers, formulators, and test laboratories.
2. Description
2.1 USE OF GUIDE: Coating field evaluation data devel-
oped in accordance with this guide may be used to document
field performance requirements of SSPC specifications, facility
owner specifications, or other purchaser documents. SSPC
specifications with field performance requirements include
Paints 28, 29, 31, 34 and 36, and Painting System 24.
2.2 CONTENT OF GUIDE: The procedures for planning,
performing, and documenting field evaluations are organized
into the following steps, as outlined in Appendix A:
• Establish Scope and Objectives of Field Testing
Program (Section 4)
• Select and Identify Coating Systems (Section 5)
• Select and Characterize Test Structure (Section 6)
• Apply Coatings (Section 7)
• Design Periodic Rating and Inspection Procedure D 1654 Test Method for Evaluation of Painted or
(Section 8)
• Perform Field Inspection and Rating (Section 9)
• Assess and Analyze Data (Section 10)
3. Referenced Standards
3.2 SSPC AND JOINT STANDARDS:
PA 1 Shop, Field and Maintenance Painting
of Steel
PA 2 Measurement of Dry Film Thickness
with Magnetic Gages
PA Guide 3 A Guide to Safety in Paint Application
Paint 28 Water-Borne Epoxy Primer for Steel
Surfaces
Paint 29 Zinc Dust Sacrificial Primer,
Performance-Based
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Editorial Revisions November 1, 2004
PS 24.00 Latex Painting System for Indus-
trial and Marine Atmospheres,
Performance-Based
SP 1 Solvent Cleaning
SP 2 Hand Tool Cleaning
SP 3 Power Tool Cleaning
SP 5/NACE No 1 White Metal Blast Cleaning
SP 6/NACE No. 3 Commercial Blast Cleaning
SP 7/NACE No. 4 Brush Off Blast Cleaning
SP 10/NACE No. 2 Near White Blast Cleaning
SP 11 Power Tool Cleaning to Bare Metal
VIS 1 Guide and Reference Photographs
for Steel Surfaces Prepared by Dry
Abrasive Blast Cleaning
VIS 2 Standard Method of Evaluating
Degree of Rusting on Painted
Steel Surfaces
3.3 AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND
MATERIALS (ASTM) STANDARDS:
A 36 Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
D 523 Test Method for Specular Gloss
D 610 Method of Evaluating Degree of Rusting on
Painted Steel Surfaces
D 660 Test Method for Evaluating Degree of Check-
ing of Exterior Paints
D 714 Test Method of Evaluating Degree of Blister-
ing on Painted Steel Substrates
Coated Specimens Subjected to Corrosive
Environments
D 1729 Practice for Visual Evaluation of Color Dif-
ferences of Opaque Materials
D 3359 Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by
Tape Test
D 4214 Test Methods for Evaluating Degree of
Chalking of Exterior Paints
D 4417 Test Methods for Field Measurement of
Surface Profile of Blast Cleaned Steel
D 4541 Test Method for Pull-Off Strength of Coat-
ings Using Portable AdhesionTesters
D 4940 Test Method for Conductimetric Analysis
of Water Soluble Ionic Contamination of
Blasting Abrasive
D 5065 Guide for Assessing the Condition of Aged
Coatings on Steel Surfaces
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F 1133 Practice for Inspecting the Coating System
of a Ship’s Underwater Hull and Boottop
During Drydocking (withdrawn, replaced
by F 1130)
G 92 Practice for Characterization of Atmospheric
Test Sites
3.4 NACE INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS:
RP0287 Standard Recommended Practice for Field
Measurement of Surface Profile of Abrasive
Blast Cleaned Steel Surfaces Using a Rep-
lica Tape
4. Establish Scope and Objectives of Field
Testing Program
4.1 ESTABLISH OBJECTIVES: The evaluator should
prepare a short written statement on the objectives of the field
evaluation. Examples of objectives are as follows:
• To compare new coatings with standard (reference)
coatings used by a facility.
• To evaluate the merits of a variety of new coatings
for field practicality and performance.
• To evaluate the influence of surface preparation
and coating application variations on coating per-
formance.
Specific items to be addressed in the statement
include:
• The intended exposure environment.
• The approximate or desired service life (e.g., com- condition of the steel to which each coating is to be applied,
parison with standard).
• The type of structure.
• The condition of the steel.
• The primary functions of coatings (e.g., to provide
corrosion protection, good appearance, and iden-
tification or safety related information).
It is recommended that the objective statement be signed
or authorized by appropriate supervisory or management
personnel.
4.2 DETERMINE SCOPE OF TESTING PROGRAM:
The evaluator should identify the general nature of the
test program, including the type of candidate and control
coatings, the intended exposure environment, and the type
of structure.
4.2.1 Coating Systems
4.2.1.1 Candidate Coating: Identify the types of coatings
to be evaluated (e.g., low-VOC alternatives or one-coat epoxy
mastics), including type and thickness of primer, intermediate
coat and topcoat (as appropriate), and total film build. Also
identify the sources of the candidate coatings (e.g., submissions
to a Qualified Product List [QPL]), new proprietary products,
2
or newly developed laboratory formulations). Adequate data to
support special performance requirements, such as chemical
resistance, should be available prior to field testing.
4.2.1.2 Control Coating: Include a control coating in the
test to help account for the affect of the local environment on
the coating performance. The specific control coating materials
should be identified (e.g., standard coating in use at facility
should be identified by brand and generic name or by Federal
or SSPC specification). In addition, include a short explanation
of why this particular control coating has been selected.
4.2.1.3 Surface Preparation: An important part of the
coating system is the type of surface preparation to be evalu-
ated in the program (e.g., blast cleaning or hand- or power-tool
cleaning) and the specific degree of cleaning.
4.2.1.4 Regulations: Ensure that the materials and pro-
cedures selected comply with all local regulations. In addition,
consider the impact of tests upon surrounding facilities and
the local environment.
4.2.1.5 Exposure Environment: Identify the types of
exposures for which the coatings are intended. An SSPC
classification procedure may be used. If the environmental
exposure zone is not one that is listed in Note 12.1, identify
the specific type of chemical or condition (e.g., fumes, de-icing
salts, or waste treatment plant peroxide fumes).
4.2.1.6 Surface Condition of Steel: Identify the surface
e.g., whether it is a new or existing surface and the degree of
pitting and salt contamination. If the surface is coated, measure
the dry film thickness and adhesion of the coating.
4.2.1.7 Structure Type: Identify the structure type (e.g.,
bridge, floor, or tank) or structural details desired (e.g., lattice
work, crevices, or floating tank roof), including the type of
steel, whether it is new or has been previously painted, and
the area to be painted.
5. Select and Identify Coating Systems
5.1 This step is to identify, describe, and determine the
sources of the candidate coating materials and the controls.
In addition, the specific surface preparation and application
details are to be established, along with any other special
requirements.
5.2 COATING SYSTEM: The test will normally include
candidate coating systems and control or reference coating
systems. Together, the surface preparation procedure, coating
materials, and application method make up a coating system.
For each of the candidate and control coating systems, provide
the following information:

5.2.1 Surface Preparation. The surface preparation for
the test should be that expected to be done for a full-scale
job application. Applicable SSPC standards include SSPC-
SP 1 (Solvent Cleaning), SSPC-SP 2 (Hand Tool Cleaning),
SSPC-SP 3 (Power Tool Cleaning), SSPC-SP 6/NACE No. 3
(Commercial Blast Cleaning), SSPC-SP 7/NACE No. 4 (Brush-
Off Blast Cleaning), SSPC-SP 10/NACE No. 2 (Near-White
Blast Cleaning), and SSPC-SP 5/NACE No. 1 (White Metal
Blast Cleaning).
Certain preparation methods may require additional infor-
mation such as the surface profile and method of measuring
profile, the type and qualification of abrasive, and specific
equipment or components such as nozzles, compressors,
filters, and pressure for water jetting.
5.2.2 Coating Materials. The minimum information re-
quired for all coatings is the generic (chemical) type, number
of components, volatile organic compound (VOC) content,
recommended dry film thickness (DFT), number of coats, and
the specific source of the product (e.g., brand name, or govern-
ment or SSPC paint specification). Other physical properties
that may be useful are the volume percent solids, theoretical
spreading rate, active pigments (e.g., corrosion-inhibiting or
sacrificial), dry time, and flexibility. Prior to the application of
the coating, the evaluator must obtain product data sheets
for application instructions and an MSDS for handling and
safety instructions.
5.2.3 Application. The application procedure that would be
used for full-scale application of the coating should be selected.
If another procedure is used, consideration must be given to
its effect on coating performance. Any application procedure
must be approved by the coating manufacturer. Determine what
information is to be monitored and recorded. The minimum
information required is the application procedure, ambient
weather conditions when the coating was applied, including air
and surface temperatures, humidity and dew point, and time
intervals after surface preparation and before painting, as well
as between coats. Other information, such as the manufacturer
of the spray equipment, may be desirable.
6. Select and Characterize Test Structure
6.1 SELECT STRUCTURE AND APPROPRIATE ENVI-
RONMENT: Based on the requirements set out in the planning
stage, select a structure or structures in the appropriate expo-
sure environment. Because of the limited availability of sites
and access to structures, it is not always possible to match
the exposure conditions proposed in the planning stage. Docu-
ment the structure, test locations, and other local conditions
that may affect the test with photographs and written records.
A model report form is found in Appendix B.
When selecting a structure, the following points should
considered:
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• Authorization to use for testing
• Clearances and access for application
• Access for inspection
• Security
• Condition of steel and configuration
• Environmental impact
• Expected duration of test site
• Direction of exposure for gloss retention studies
6.2 SELECT STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS FOR TESTING
6.2.1 Select a portion of the structure for the coating
testing program. The portion should be readily dividable into
a minimum of two locations. The different locations should
be relatively similar in surface condition, exposure, corrosiv-
ity (e.g., exposure to chemicals, water runoff, and saltwater
runoff), and structural configuration. The test location for
each coating system should be picked at random. Test each
coating system, including candidates and controls, in more
than one location since the reliability of the results increases
as the number of replicates increases. This will also permit
comparisons of candidate coatings with control coatings and
with one another. Document the selection with photographs.
6.2.2 Three levels of field site evaluations have been
established:
Level A - Production Scale Structure Evaluation: Each
test area should be a minimum of 40 square feet (4 m2). The
area should include a variety of configurations representative
of the actual structural surface, such as planar areas, edges,
and welded or bolted connections.
Level B - Patch Scale Structure Evaluation: Each test
area should be a minimum of 6 square feet (0.6 m2). If possible,
at least two linear feet (0.6 m) of edge should be included in
the test. Where early results are sought, scribes may be placed
in three to five locations on the flat areas. With small areas, it
is important that each candidate and each control system be
applied on the most uniform area that can be found.
Level C - Test Panel Evaluation: Where suitable struc-
tural surfaces are not available, or where there are a relatively
large number of systems to be evaluated, test panels may be
used. Test panels should be a minimum of 4 by 6 inches (100
by 150 mm) in area, at least 1/8 inch (6.4 mm) thick. They
should be made of hot-rolled steel meeting the requirements
of ASTM A 36 unless otherwise agreed upon. Alternatively, use
hot-rolled steel similar to the steel in structures to be coated.
A minimum of four replicate test panels for each coating sys-
tem or control system is recommended. The panels may be
placed on test racks on the ground, on test racks suspended
from the structure, or individually suspended from structures.
The location of each panel on the rack or elsewhere should
be chosen at random. Electrical insulation of the panels from
a structure or other support must be assured.
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6.3 CHARACTERIZE EXPOSURE ENVIRONMENT:
Exposure environments can be characterized by the environ-
mental parameters or by the performance of standard materials
in that environment. The SSPC zones provide a broad clas-
sification of exposure environments (see Note 12.1).
6.3.1 Environmental Parameters. These include relative
humidity, rainfall, temperature averages and ranges, acidity of
rainfall, and the presence of contaminants such as chemicals
or salts. The time of wetness, which is an important factor
in determining corrosion rates, can be measured. The total
ultraviolet radiation can be measured or the number of hours
of sunlight can be estimated based on the direction of the
exposure and weather data. Additional information on the
weather and local environment can be obtained from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Oceanic
Atmosphere Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Meteorological
Society, or by specialized monitoring equipment.
6.3.2 Performance of Standard Materials. The most
common indicator of corrosion rates is the corrosion of bare
steel coupons. A minimum corrosion rate of 1.0 mil (25 mi-
crometers) per year is recommended for classification as
a moderate exposure environment. ASTM G 92 provides a
method for site calibration. Other parameters used are the
corrosion rate of bare zinc and the lifetimes of certain standard
reference paints. Another potentially useful parameter is the
scribe undercutting rate of vinyl paints or systems with well-
defined characteristics.
6.4 CHARACTERIZE CONDITION OF STRUCTURE
COATING:
6.4.1 Rust, Pitting, and Contaminants. The test surface
should be examined to determine the extent of corrosion and
rust scale (SSPC-VIS 2/ASTM D 610), and pitting of the steel.
The presence of any visible salts, other contaminants and
defects on the surface should be noted. (See Section 6.4.4
for identifying soluble salts.)
6.4.2 General Condition of Existing Coating. Types of
existing coatings (i.e., primer, intermediate, topcoat) should
be recorded. A visual rating of the coating condition should be
obtained. The physical condition of the existing coating (e.g.,
adhesion, brittleness) should be examined.
6.4.3 Detailed Condition of Existing Coating. A pre-
characterization inspection is more critical for coatings that are
to be applied over intact rust, pitted steel; or existing coatings,
than over clean bare steel. Detailed descriptions for assessing
the condition of painted steel can be found in ASTM D 5065
or ASTM F 1133 (see 8.2.1 and 8.2.6). An abbreviated form
for reporting the condition of the existing surface is found in
Appendix B. Photographs should be used to help document
these conditions. When adhesion is measured, both the test
method used and the results obtained should be recorded.
4
6.4.4 Soluble Salts. For surfaces thought to be contami-
nated with salts, the concentration of salts can be measured
using commercially available field testing kits. The type of kit
used and the concentration measured should be recorded. For
coatings to be applied over blast cleaned steel, recommended
procedures are available for inspection after blasting. (See
Appendix F from Report FHWA RD-91-011 [SSPC 91-01].)
7. Apply Coatings
A summary of documentation requirements is provided
in Section 7.6. Each of the requirements is described in the
appropriate section. A model application form is illustrated in
Appendix C.
7.1 PREPARE JOB SPECIFICATION: As with any other
field application, it is essential to prepare written requirements
or specifications for the application. These include general
instructions for contractors or other applicators, identification
and location of the structure and test area, surface preparation
and coating application requirements, limitations due to weather
conditions, and inspection requirements and responsibilities.
7.2 OBTAIN AND TEST COATING MATERIALS: The
evaluator must stipulate who will supply the coatings, and who
will verify that the coatings meet the requirements established
earlier. The supplier should be required to provide results of
quality control tests on viscosity, density, gloss, and dry time.
in addition, an infrared spectroscopic fingerprint of the coating
applied could be required to verify that the correct resin system
was used. These requirements are necessary to help ensure
that a coating applied at a later time is the same formulation as
the one used in the field test. The evaluator should also ensure
that the application data sheet and the MSDS, along with the
required thinners and the clean-up solvents, are available.
7.3 PERFORM PRELIMINARY INSPECTION: Assess
the condition of the structure and areas to be used for testing.
In some cases, the final selection of the areas to be coated
will be made at the time of application. If coating and rust are
not to be completely removed, document the condition with
photographs. Identify and mark the areas for each system to
be tested.
Record the environmental conditions, including air tempera-
ture, steel temperature, relative humidity, dew point, wind, etc.
7.4 PREPARE SURFACE: The surface shall be prepared
in accordance with the job specification and inspected for con-
formance. Record the type of abrasive used, contamination
level of abrasive (ASTM D 4940 can be used to assess ionic
content), and the surface profile of the steel (ASTM D 4417
or NACE RP0287). Document the appearance of the surface
using SSPC-VIS 1-89.

7.5 APPLY COATING:
7.5.1 The coating should be applied in accordance with
SSPC-PA 1, the manufacturer's instructions, and the job
specifications.
Observe and record the following aspects of the coating:
• the condition of the coating in the container
• the mixing method
• the induction time
• the pot life, if two or more components are being ASTM D 4541. (See Note 12.2.)
mixed
• the amount and type of thinning
• the dry time
• the recommended time between coats
• general application techniques
Following the application of each coat, inspect the film for
dry spray, sagging, running, or other application film defects. It
is essential that the film thickness of the coatings conform to
the specification and that the coatings are applied uniformly.
Measure and record the dry film thickness of each coat in
accordance with SSPC-PA 2. Document ambient conditions
and parameters of the application equipment, if appropriate.
7.5.2 Scribing a coating to expose the substrate is fre-
quently done on test panels, but it is not commonly done on
existing structures. Although there is reluctance to create an
area on the structure that will require subsequent repair, signifi-
cant benefits are obtained by scribing. Performing scribing on
the structure will provide information on the coating's ability to
resist further breakdown at a damaged area and will produce
coating system degradation faster than in an undamaged area.
Scribing may be done in accordance with ASTM D 1654.
7.5.3 The manufacturer should be invited to observe the
field application and coating inspection.
7.6 DOCUMENTATION SUMMARY: An evaluator should
ensure that the following records have been obtained:
a. Description of the surface coated, including the type
and condition of the steel, the extent of corrosion
and pitting, the presence of salts or other surface
contaminants, the size of the test patch or the size
and number of test panels, and the type and condition
of the existing coating, if any.
b. Description of the surface preparation procedure,
including abrasive type, profile, and other parameters,
as required.
c. Weather conditions during surface preparation, coat-
ing application, film drying, and curing.
d. Product IDs, batch numbers, manufacturers' names
on all paints and other materials used.
e. Records of coating condition in container, thinning,
application procedures, parameters, and equipment,
and any film application defects, such as sagging or
dry spray.
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f. Records of DFTs (single coat and system).
g. Samples of paint, abrasives, and replica tapes, as
required.
h. Photographs of initial conditions, operations, and
completed test areas.
i. Names, affiliations, and phone numbers of observers,
representatives, and inspector.
j. After an appropriate cure time, adhesion should be
assessed, using methods such as ASTM D 3359 or
8. Design Periodic Rating and Inspection
Procedure
8.1 SCHEDULING: Prepare a schedule for rating and
inspection. Suggested intervals are 6 months, 12 months,
18 months, 24 months, and yearly thereafter. For especially
severe environments or where early degradation analysis is
required, the first inspection may be scheduled after 2 to 3
months. The program should be scheduled to run for a fixed
period of time, or until the coating reaches a defined level of
performance.
8.2 EVALUATION PARAMETERS: The evaluator should
establish test parameters to rate the coating. These are often
tied into the test objectives. Coating performance is usually
evaluated in terms of corrosion protection and appearance.
8.2.1 Rusting on Flat Surfaces: It is important to provide
a quantitative assessment for comparison with subsequent
ratings or alternate systems. The most common method is
SSPC-VIS 2 (ASTM D 610), which provides a numerical scale
based on the percent of the surface rusted. This test is most
useful for small areas (up to 1 square foot [0.09 m2]). Larger
areas should be divided into small uniformly sized areas to
determine the rating of each small square. ASTM F 1133 de-
scribes an evaluation procedure, using a series of illustrations
as reference, to determine the extent and level of deterioration.
Another simple approach is to estimate the total percentage
of the area that has deteriorated to a condition worse than a
defined ASTM level (e.g., rust grade 8).
8.2.2 Edge Rusting. Edge rusting is usually reported as
a percentage of the linear feet rusted.
8.2.3 Undercutting at Breaks or Scribes. The average
or maximum distance of undercutting at breaks or scribes is
usually reported in millimeters or fractions of an inch (e.g.,
1/32 inch).
8.2.4 Blistering. This occurs most frequently in SSPC
Atmospheric Zones 2A (frequently wet with fresh water) and
2B (frequently wet with salt water). The standard method for
evaluating blisters is ASTM D 714, which rates both the size
and the frequency of the blisters. It may be necessary to
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subdivide large areas into smaller, more uniform areas, or to
devise a scheme similar to those described in Section 8.2.1
for surface rusting. (See Note 12.3 for special requirements
regarding thick film coatings.)
8.2.5 Appearance
8.2.5.1 The most important appearance parameters are
color and gloss retention. These are best measured using
specific field-compatible instruments. Information on these
parameters can also be obtained by retaining unexposed
samples in the lab and visually comparing the appearance of
the two surfaces using ASTM D 523 and D 1729.
8.2.5.2 Other appearance defects to be evaluated are
chalking (ASTM D 4214) and bleeding.
8.2.6 Film Deterioration. Film deterioration modes include
checking, cracking, erosion, flaking, peeling, and loss of adhe-
sion. Standard procedures using photographic standards and
field measurements are described in ASTM D 5065. However,
the adhesion measurement procedures described (ASTM D
3359 and D 4541) are destructive tests and may necessitate
repair of the coating system.
8.3 ESTABLISH PERFORMANCE AND FAILURE CRITE-
RIA: In many cases it is important to determine a time-to-failure.
This would require a definition of coating system failure, which
may depend on the service exposure. Examples of failure
criteria are listed below.
• Average rust rating of 7, based on SSPC-VIS 2 inspection.
(ASTM D 610).
• 20% of the surface showing signs of degradation 10.2 Identify the types of degradation or failures that oc-
of topcoat or needing surface preparation.
• Average scribe undercutting of 4/32 inches (3.2
mm) or 8/32 inches (6.4 mm).
• Average adhesion rating less than 3B (ASTM D
3359).
• Average gloss retention of 50% or less of the in the following ways:
original gloss reading.
• Average blister rating less than 8M (ASTM D 714).
• Poorer performance than the control at some pre- ceeds, or falls short of the minimum performance
determined service time. (Performance param- criteria established.
eters should be stated explicitly.)
8.4 DESIGN RATING FORMS FOR FIELD: The evaluator
should prepare a set of instructions for the field evaluation,
including the parameters to be measured, the methods to be
used, photographs to be taken, and the standards to be used.
In addition, the evaluator should prepare pre-printed rating
forms for field inspection. A model inspection and rating form
is shown in Appendix C.
6
9. Perform Field Inspection and Rating
9.1 Identify the structure, its location, and date of inspec-
tion. This should be done far enough in advance of the field
inspection to ensure that all interested parties can attend.
9.2 Assemble an inspection team, including an owner's
representative and a manufacturer's representative.
9.3 Arrange for the necessary access, clearance permits
safety equipment, and inspection equipment.
9.4 Prepare and distribute ratings forms for field evaluation.
9.5 Conduct inspection in accordance with plans.
9.6 Record data on appropriate forms. Obtain signatures of
participants and observers. Take photographs, as required.
9.7 Record environmental conditions and other damaging
factors that might affect the performance of the coatings (e.g.,
salt dripping, abrasion, wind, and vandalism).
10. Assess and Analyze Data
10.1 Tabulate and evaluate the data from each inspection.
Data should be organized to show:
• Ratings of each coating system's performance at
each inspection.
• Other performance evaluation information at each
curred for the systems tested.
10.3 Plot the various performance levels over time.
10.4 Compare candidates to defined performance levels
• Compare with control coating performance.
• Assess whether the candidate coating meets, ex-
• Determine whether insufficient time has elapsed
to evaluate the acceptability of candidate coat-
ings.
• Provide explanations for certain field data not
considered valid.
10.5 Based on the data above, determine if additional
inspection and rating is required. If so, estimate the time for
the next planned rating.

11. Disclaimer
11.1 This guide is designed to describe, review, or analyze
new or improved technology and does not meet the definition
of a standard as defined by SSPC. A guide differs from a stan-
dard in that it is not suitable for referencing in a specification
or procurement document.
11.2 While every precaution is taken to ensure that all
information furnished in SSPC guides is as accurate, complete,
and useful as possible, SSPC cannot assume responsibility
nor incur any obligation resulting from the use of any materials,
coatings, or methods described herein, or of the guide itself.
11.3 This guide does not attempt to address problems
concerning safety associated with its use. The user of this
specification, as well as the user of all products or practices
described herein, is responsible for instituting appropriate
health and safety practices and for ensuring compliance with
all governmental regulations.
12. Notes
12.1 The SSPC Environmental Exposure Zones include:
1A (interior, normally dry), 1B (exterior, normally dry), 2A (wet
by fresh water), 2B (wet by salt water), 3A (chemical exposure
-- acid), 3B (chemical exposure -- neutral), 3C (chemical expo-
sure -- basic), 3D (chemical -- mild solvent), and 3E (chemical
-- strong solvent).
12.2 Results from different adhesion tests may not be
comparable, because different properties are being measured.
Refer to ASTM D 3359 and ASTM D 4541 regarding interpreta-
tion of results and precision.
12.3 For thick film coatings (>10 mils [250 micrometers]),
inspection procedures using ASTM D 610 and ASTM D 714
may be inadequate. Blisters, film delamination, and underfilm
rusting may not be detected. Hence, probing with a knife or
removal of coatings may be required upon the completion
of the test to inspect for delamination and underfilm rusting.
Adhesion testing may also be applicable upon completion of
the test.
APPENDIX A. CHECKLIST FOR PLANNING
AND CONDUCTING FIELD EVALUATION OF A
COATING SYSTEM
1. Establish program objectives.
2. Establish program scope, including:
• number and generic types of coating systems
• surface condition of steel
• type and location of structure
• exposure environment sought
• evaluation frequency
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3. Select structure, considering:
• type
• location
• type and surface condition of steel
• new or repaint (if repaint, describe existing coating)
• accessibility
• Iocation and size of test area
4. Select surface preparation, including:
• type (abrasive blasting, water jetting, etc.)
• description (in accordance with SSPC surface
preparation standards)
• abrasive and profile
• other requirements (type of equipment, pressures,
etc.)
5. Identify test and control coatings (primer, intermediate,
topcoat), including:
• generic type
• description (brand name and specification num-
ber)
• recommended DFT
• application method
• VOC content
• weather requirements for application
• recoat/service time
• review MSDS and product data sheets
• other
6. Prepare written specifications and obtain contractor.
7. Obtain and conduct quality control tests of coating materials.
8. Conduct preliminary inspection of structure.
9. Arrange for appropriate people to be present for applica-
tion and inspection.
10. Observe and record surface preparation and application
parameters and weather conditions. Document with
photographs.
11. Inspect and rate condition of coating systems: Assemble
inspection team. Obtain necessary access, permits,
inspection equipment. Prepare inspection forms. Record
data. Take and identify photographs. Obtain signatures
of participants and observers.
12. Evaluate data:
• Tabulate and organize inspection data.
• Compare level of performance to criteria.
• Determine if additional testing is needed.
SSPC-Guide 9
July 1, 1994
Editorial Revisions November 1, 2004

APPENDIX B

DESCRIPTION OF TEST STRUCTURE

(One form needed for each test patch)

Inspector: Date:

Type of structure: Identification:

Facility/Route No.:

Location (city/state):

Exposure (SSPC Zone): Bare Steel Corrosion Rate:

Other (industrial, marine, urban, specific chemicals):

Location of test patch on structure:

Description of test patch surface:

Size of test patch:

Extent of corrosion and pitting:

(VIS 1 rating):

General condition:*

Presence of salts: (Type of test: ) (Unit: )

Existing coating type:

Condition: (Rust, VIS 2: ) (Peeling: ) (Other: )

Thickness (mils): Average: Range:

Adhesion: Type of test/unit: Average: Range:

Remarks:

* See SSPC 91-01, Appendix F for information on characterizing surfaces contaminated with soluble salts.

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 SSPC-Guide 9
July 1, 1994
Editorial Revisions November 1, 2004

APPENDIX C

APPLICATION

Applicator Name:

Company: Phone:

Inspector Name:

Company: Phone:

Owner Representative Name:

Company: Phone:

Position of
Responsibility:

Coating Supplier Name:

Company: Phone:

Surface
Preparation:

Date: Method/Degree of Cleaning:

Abrasive Used: Profile: Measured by:

Comments:

Ambient conditions (describe):

Surface Temperature: Air Temperature:

Relative Humidity: Other:

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SSPC-Guide 9
July 1, 1994
Editorial Revisions November 1, 2004

Coating Application

Primer Intermediate Topcoat

Product Name and Number

Generic Type

Batch Number/Date

Environmental Conditions

air temperature

surface temperature

relative humidity

dew point

wind conditions
Condition in Container

Number of Components

Method of Mixing

Induction Time

Pot Time

Thinning, Type and Amount

Equipment Used

air pressure (psi)

fluid pressure (psi)

atomization pressure

nozzle/tip size

brush or roller type

Date Applied

Time Applied

Time Between Coats

Cumulative Dry Film

Thickness (DFT), mils or
micrometers
Appearance Defects

Samples Taken Abrasive Replica Tape Coatings

Method of Scribe

Photographs (record details Original Condition Operations Completed Test Areas

of time, place and situation
for each photo taken)

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