---
kind: "section"
citation: "46 C.F.R. § 160.072-5"
title: "46"
number: "160.072-5"
heading: "Accelerated weathering test."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/46/160.072-5"
---

# §160.072-5. Accelerated weathering test.

- (a) Condition the flag, folded to 1/16th its size or as packaged, whichever is smaller, by submersion in 5% by weight sodium chloride solution for 2 hours followed immediately by storage at 95% (±5) related humidity and 40 °C (±3°) (100 °F ±5°) for at least 15 days.
- (b) **Unfold and suspend flag by the lines provided, secured through each grommet.**
- (c) Subject the flag to alternate 3 minute cycles of 5% by weight sodium chloride solution at 55 degrees (±5°) C and air blasts of 40 knots at 55 degrees (±5°) C, perpendicular to and over the entire surface of one side of the flag, without interruption for a period of not less than 24 hours.
- (d) The flag fails the accelerated weathering test if
  - (1) After conditioning, the flag cannot be unfolded without damage,
  - (2) There is any tearing,
  - (3) The flag does not retain its bright red/orange color,
  - (4) The disc and square images no longer meet the requirements of [§ 160.072-3(a)(3)](/cfr/46/160.072-3.md?p=a-3) or,
  - (5) **There is any visible rot over more than 3% of the flag's surface.**

## Notes

### Source

Source: CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73054, Dec. 17, 1979, unless otherwise noted.

### Authority

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703, 4302; E.O. 12234; 45 FR 58801; 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; and DHS Delegation 00170.1, Revision No. 01.4.