MIL-DTL-13531J
APPENDIX A
COPPER SULFATE TESTING
A.1 SCOPE
A.1.1 Scope. This appendix provides instructions on performing the copper sulfate test. This
appendix is a mandatory part of the specification. The information contained herein is intended for
compliance.
A.1.2 Applicability. This method is recommended to detect the presence of free iron on the surface
of austenitic chromium-nickel steels of the AISI type 200 and 300 series alloys, precipitation hardened
types, and ferritic AISI 400 series alloy having a minimum of 16 % chromium. It is not recommended for
use on martensitic AISI 00 series alloys or ferritic AISI 400 series alloys with less than 16% chromium
since the test will show a positive reaction on these materials. This test is sensitive and should be used
and interpreted only by personnel familiar with its limitations.
WARNING
DO NOT USE THIS TEST ON PARTS TO BE USED IN FOOD PROCESSING.
A.2 APPARATUSES
10 ml Graduate
500 ml graduate
1000 ml Beaker
Swab
Balance
A.3 MATERIALS
Copper sulfate (CuSo4 : 5H2O)
Distilled water
Sulfuric Acid (sp gr 1.84)
A.4 PROCEDURE
A.4.1 Prepare the test solution as follows: Dissolve 8g of copper sulfate in 500 ml of distilled water
to which 2 to 3 ml of sulfuric acid has been added.
NOTE: Aqueous copper sulfate solutions more than two weeks old shall not be used for the
purpose of this test.
A.4.2 Swab the surface to be inspected with test solution, applying additional solution, if needed, to
keep the surface wet for a period of 6 minutes.
A.4.3 At the end of this 6 minute period, carefully rinse and dry the surface such that no copper
deposits are removed.
A.4.4 A copper deposit indicates the presence of metallic iron.
25
For Parts Inquires call Parts Hangar, Inc (727) 493-0744
© Copyright 2015 Integrated Publishing, Inc.
A Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business