Unlike traditional cells, the crevice free cell avoids localized corrosion at the seal between the sample and its holder.  Following a design popularized by Avesta Steel, the cell uses a flooded gasket seal.  This simple yet elegant design results in an easy to use, reliable, crevice free system.

As in conventional cells, the active area of the test specimen is in contact with the electrolyte.  Unlike other cells, the active area of the test cell is not bounded by a plastic barrier or O-ring.  Deionized water is slowely forced through a fiber washer placed on the test solution side of the metal sample being tested.  After passing through the washer, the water diffuses the electrolyte.  The fluid in the fiber washer is nearly pure deionized water, which is not conductive enough to support corrosion processes.  Thus instead of a plastic barrier with its rsultant crevice, a conductivity gradient between the electrolyte and the deionized water defines the test specimen's active area.

Click [ here ] to return to the Flexcell page.