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.

4Subsea gets a research project from Shell Brazil

4Subsea has been awarded a Shell-funded contract to support COPPE, the centre for engineering research and education at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ).

Sandvik sponsors and brings ‘next generation’ mater

Sandvik is among the sponsors of the upcoming Stainless Steel World (SSW) Conference & Exhibition 2017 in Maastricht, The Netherlands (November 28-30), one of the world’s most important events relating to the manufacture and use of corrosion resistant stainless steels and other corrosion resistant alloys.

UGIMA 4509 for the automotive industry

Ugitech has expanded their portfolio in the range of UGIMA® steel grades with improved machinability. The new ferritic stainless steel UGIMA® 4509 is the answer to increasing demands of the automotive industry for more efficient machinability and better corrosion and oxidation resistance.

ExOne makes available 17-4PH SS

The ExOne Company has announced the availability of 17-4PH stainless steel (also known as SAE Type 630 or UNS S17400) as a printable material at its North Huntingdon production service center (PSC).

Sandvik is a sponsor of SSW 2017

Sandvik is among the sponsors of the upcoming Stainless Steel World (SSW) Conference & Exhibition 2017 in Maastricht, The Netherlands (November 28-30).

Vallourec, BAPETCO signs a contract

Vallourec has signed a contract with Badr El Din Petroleum Company (BAPETCO), a joint venture between Shell and the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation.

Europe’s first Ti recycling plant in France

UKAD (a JV by Eramet subsidiary Aubert & Duval), ADEME and Crédit Agricole Centre France has inaugurated the EcoTitanium site in Saintâ€?Georges-deâ€?Mons (Puy-de-Dôme, France).

New edition of EEMUA 159 users’ guide released

EEMUA, the Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association, has published Edition 5 of its highly respected guidance EEMUA Publication 159, ‘Above ground flat bottomed storage tanks - a guide to inspection, maintenance and repair’.

Sandvik achieves milestone with order rise

Sandvik has reported a strong start to 2017 for welding products, materials and solutions. The news follows a global surge in demand for specialized welding expertise, with China and NAFTA representing the two largest growth markets.

TF Warren appoints Brian Sheedy

The TF Warren Group has announced that Brian Sheedy has been appointed as VP of the TF Warren operations in Canada. He is responsible for the Brant Corrosion Control and Brant Industrial Roll divisions.


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.