| Corrosivity Category | Description |
|---|---|
| C1 | Very low corrosively (dry interiors) |
| C2 | Low corrosiveness (damp interiors) |
| C3 | Moderate corrosivity (urban and industrial environments) |
| C4 | High corrosively (industrial environments with high humidity and aggressive conditions) |
| C5 | Very high corrosiveness (aggressive atmospheres, such as coastal regions) |
| CX | Exceptional corrosion load; environments with aggressive influences, such as offshore |
Significance of DIN EN ISO 12944
DIN EN ISO 12944 is an internationally recognised set of standards that defines the principles and guidelines for the corrosion protection of steel structures by means of coating systems. Corrosion protection of steel structures is crucial because corrosion threatens the stability and service life of steel. Moisture, corrosive substances and temperature changes are some of the challenges faced by steel structures. DIN EN ISO 12944 provides clear guidelines to meet these challenges and ensure long-term corrosion protection. The standard reflects decades of experience of the expert groups involved and involved specialist companies and it therefore receives great recognition in corrosion protection.
The sections of DIN EN ISO 12944
The DIN EN ISO 12944 standard is divided into different sections:
1. General Introduction and Overview
2. Classification of environments
3. Design considerations
4. Types of surface and surface preparation
5. Protective Paint Systems
6. Laboratory performance test methods
7. Execution and supervision of paint work
8. Development of specifications for new work and maintenance
9. Protective paint systems and laboratory performance test methods for offshore and related structures
These sections cover the entire spectrum of the corrosion protection process, from surface preparation to the selection of suitable coating systems, as well as verification by laboratory test to inspection and maintenance. Part 9 covers the special application in the offshore sector and was only subsequently added to the DIN EN ISO 12944 series of standards.
Advantages of DIN EN ISO 12944
The correct implementation of the standard ensures a high quality of the protective coatings. This results in long-term corrosion resistance and reduces the likelihood of damage and expensive repairs. The standard provides companies with the opportunity to reduce costs by increasing the life time of steel structures and minimizing maintenance.
Areas of application of DIN EN ISO 12944: Protection against corrosion in various branches of industry
DIN EN ISO 12944 is applied in various areas where the corrosion protection of steel structures is of crucial importance. Some specific examples of applications of this standard are:
1. Industrial equipment: In the petrochemical industry, power generation, food processing, and other industries where steel structures are exposed to high corrosive conditions, the standard is used to ensure the long-term protection and integrity of equipment.
2. Construction: In bridges, high-rise buildings, tunnels, railway stations and other infrastructure projects that include steel structures, DIN EN ISO 12944 plays an important role in ensuring the safety and durability of these structures under various environmental conditions.
3. Offshore and coastal installations: In the offshore industry, including oil and gas platforms, wind farms and other maritime structures, the standard is applied to ensure corrosion protection of steel structures in the demanding and aggressive environments of the seas.
4. Transportation: In ships, ferry terminals, port cranes and other maritime means of transport and infrastructure, DIN EN ISO 12944 is used to ensure the protection of steel components from the effects of salt water, moisture and other corrosive factors.
Application of ISO DIN EN 12944 at the IFO Institute: Test Procedures and Inspections
Implementation by our independent and accredited laboratory according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025
Our independent and accredited laboratory at the IFO Institute for Surface Technology GmbH offers you a professional implementation in accordance with Part 6 and Part 9 of DIN EN ISO 12944. With many years of experience and an independent and accredited laboratory, we guarantee a quality-assured execution of the inspection of the corrosion protection system.
Our laboratory has a variety of laboratory procedures that are used to ensure effective and high-quality coating.
The test methods described in the standard:
Test program 1:
Test program 2:
Cyclic ageing test (DIN EN ISO 12944-6, Annex B) consisting of:
After the test has been carried out, further test methods are used:
Evaluation method:
- Degree of blistering ISO 4628-2
- Degree of rust ISO 4628-3
- Degree of cracking ISO 4629-4
- Degree of flacking ISO 4628-5
- Degree of corrosion and delamination ISO 4628-8
Our customers receive a detailed report with the results and a statement as to whether the requirements of DIN EN ISO 12944 are met for the desired area of application.
Implementation by our independent inspectors and certification bodies
The IFO Institut für Oberflächentechnik GmbH offers certifications according to DIN EN ISO 12944. Our experienced inspectors have extensive knowledge and expertise in the assessment of coating qualities. They carry out on-site inspections to ensure that the corrosion protection systems have been applied in accordance with the standard specifications and that the requirements for the different corrosivity classes (C1-CX) are met in the laboratory. The IFO certification body ensures the independent assessment of the certification by accreditation according to ISO 17065 and certifies this with a certificate from the highest accreditation authority, the DakkS in Berlin.
The certification program for coatings manufacturers of the IFO certification body offers customers the benefit of obtaining high-quality coatings in accordance with DIN EN ISO 12944. The certification ensures the quality assurance of the paints, so customers can be confident in the reliability and compliance of the paints to ensure effective corrosion protection performance of their steel structures.
Ensure a long service life and high quality of your products and optimise your corrosion protection measures - we are your reliable partner for testing and certification in accordance with DIN EN 12944. Get free advice now by calling 07171 / 10407-0
Determination of effective corrosion protection and overview of the protection period in accordance with DIN EN ISO 12944
Corrosivity category: The right assessment for effective corrosion protection
DIN EN ISO 12944 defines corrosivity categories that reflect the environmental conditions to which steel structures are exposed. This classification enables a targeted selection of coating systems for the appropriate corrosion protection. The classes include C1 to C5 and cover different environments, from low to high corrosiveness.
DIN EN ISO 12944 uses corrosivity categories to accurately describe environments for steel structures. The definition of the corrosivity categories comes from ISO 9223, in which the corrosivity categories are calculated according to removal rates due to corrosion on the uncoated test specimen or corrosion. The composition of the atmosphere (e.g. chloride content, or SO2 content). They make it easier to assess the corrosion load and to choose suitable protection systems. This supports the precise selection of corrosion protection measures according to the specific environmental conditions. Not every application requires the best corrosion protection system.
Protection period of corrosion protection: Effective protection for long-term durability in accordance with DIN EN ISO 12944
DIN EN ISO 12944 provides important guidelines for the corrosion protection of steel structures and also defines the duration of protection. This information is of great importance to ensure the effectiveness, durability and ultimately the service life of the corrosion protection systems, that they meet the requirements in different environments. The standard distinguishes between 4 different time intervals:
We support you with all questions relating to corrosion testing - we are your reliable partner for tests in accordance with DIN EN ISO 12944. Get a non-binding consultation now 07171 / 10407-0
Area of competence
Testing standards
- DIN EN ISO 12944
Your contacts
Ute Brunner-Bäurle
Dipl. Chem.
Head of certification body
Dipl. Chem.
Head of certification body
