Corrosion

Definition of Corrosion

Corrosion is defined as a refined metal that is naturally converted to a more stable form such as its hydroxide or sulphide state. Metal corrodes when it reacts with another substance such as oxygen, hydrogen or bacteria. Corrosion can also happen when metals are placed under too much stress causing the material to crack. Corrosion leads to deterioration of the material.

Stainless steel is highly corrosion resistant, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or harsh conditions such as salt water is expected.

In this section you can find newsitems related to all types of corrosion such as stress corrosion cracking, intergranular corrosion, pitting, and corrosion fatigue. If you wish to include your news release on our website and email newsletter, please feel free to contact the editor.

AMETEK SMP gears up for India’s automotive industry

Most of the world’s major car manufacturers now have operations in India. The automotive sector overall is a significant contributor to the country’s economy.

Industrial applications for Titanium tubing

At the Titanium Europe Conference 2018 held recently in Seville, Spain, Brian Mercer, Director, Tube Products and International Sales & Marketing, for AMETEK Specialty Metal Products, presented a paper entitled “Industrial Applications for Titanium Tubing.

Ugitech’s introduces UGIMA® 4116N stainless steel

Ugitech introduces a stainless steel, UGIMA® 4116N which is extremely hard, thanks to the addition of nitrogen, and much more resistant to corrosion than standard-grade steel as EN 1.

New special steel corrodur 4118 Mod for well fluids

In oil and gas exploration and extraction, the materials handling and production systems are constantly subject to corrosion due to contact with acid gases and chlorides at high temperatures.

Surface hardening technology challenges for MAN Diesel

The transition to cheaper and more environmentally friendly fuels is crucial to the future of the shipping industry, and MAN Diesel & Turbo is a major player in that market.

Cti, UK gets NADCAP accreditation

Castings Technology International (Cti) has successfully completed the latest stringent approvals process required to supply titanium castings for use by the civil and defence aerospace industries by securing an accreditation from the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP).

Sandvik reports ‘positive mood’ at Tube 2018

Sandvik is reporting a positive outcome following its recent presence at Tube 2018 in Düsseldorf. With the focus of this year’s show being ‘resist corrosion, embrace possibilities’ the company was keen to showcase a combination of knowledge, expertise and product excellence to its customers.

New Chemetall laboratory in Querétaro

The Surface Treatment global business unit of BASF’s Coatings division, operating under the Chemetall brand, has opened a new laboratory at its 38,700-square foot manufacturing and office facility in Queretaro; Querétaro, Mexico.

Tantaline CVD, ME-Metals sign agreement

CVD Equipment Corporation (CVV) has announced that its subsidiary CVD Materials Corporation through its Tantaline CVD group has entered into an agreement with ME-Metals & Technologies (ME-Metals).

Graham Corporation USD 5.5M orders

Graham Corporation (GHM) has received three orders totaling approximately USD 5.5M, all for the refining industry. Two of the orders are for replacement components within the Company's installed base.


Corrosion can be a big problem because it can cause significant damage and deterioration to various materials, particularly metals. We have listed below several reasons why corrosion is a significant concern:

Structural Integrity: Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of materials. When metals corrode, they lose their strength and load-bearing capacity, which can lead to failures and collapses in infrastructure, buildings, bridges, pipelines, and other critical structures.

Economic Impact: Corrosion imposes substantial economic costs. The direct expenses associated with corrosion include repairs, replacements, and maintenance of corroded structures and equipment. Additionally, there are indirect costs such as production losses, decreased efficiency, and increased energy consumption due to the effects of corrosion on industrial processes and machinery.

Environmental Consequences: Corrosion can have adverse environmental effects. For example, in the case of pipelines, corrosion can lead to leaks and spills of hazardous substances, causing soil and water pollution and damaging ecosystems.

Health and Safety Risks: Corrosion can create health and safety risks in various ways. For instance, when corrosion affects pipelines or storage tanks carrying toxic substances, it can lead to leaks or releases that endanger the health of workers, communities, and the environment.

Maintenance and Downtime: Corrosion necessitates regular maintenance and inspection programs to detect and mitigate its effects. This requires significant time, effort, and financial resources. Additionally, when corrosion-related issues arise, it often requires shutting down operations, causing downtime and productivity losses.

Given these reasons, it is crucial to understand and address corrosion through preventive measures, protective coatings, corrosion-resistant materials, regular inspections and testing (ASTM B117), and appropriate maintenance practices to mitigate its impact and ensure the longevity and safety of structures and equipment.