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.

Second cold pilger mill for NFC

Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC), a producer in India of niche tubes for nuclear applications, has recently ordered a second 50-Q-C type Cold Pilger Mill from Danieli W+K.

Stainless Steel in Elizabeth Quay, Perth

The recent collaboration of ASSDA members and their expertise in the extensive use of stainless steel has helped to bring Perth’s iconic and most complex bridge to life.

New Managing Director for TITAN

TITAN Metal Fabricators, Inc has recently appointed Mr. Jeff Thomas as the Managing Director of Engineered Products at its headquarters in Camarillo, California.

Outokumpu wins stainless rebar order

Outokumpu Long Products has recently won a contract to provide 1,600 metric tons stainless steel rebar for The Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad Al-Sabah project in Kuwait.

Sumitomo launches stainless steel AC6020M grade

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd has recently developed the new AC6020M grade for finishing and general turning of stainless steel and launched it in November 2016.

PEM® self-clinching stainless steel fasteners

The new PEM® self-clinching stainless steel standoff fasteners with bright nickel plating from PennEngineering® provide ideal corrosion resistance and contribute to an attractive finish in stainless steel assemblies.

Outokumpu stainless steel rebar at Cromer coast

Outokumpu has recently delivered Forta DX 2304 duplex stainless steel rebar for the Cromer coast in the UK. Cromer is a well-known resort with a historic sea front and beloved beach, with original sea defences of a series of walls and timber groynes, some dating back to 1845.

ACCIONA Agua takes part in Waintech project

Watintech, the European innovation project in which ACCIONA Agua is taking part, will mean that waste products generated in treatment processes can be used to convert them into useful products to neutralize odors and avoid corrosion in sanitation networks, and also to obtain energy for self-consumption of plants.

CorroLogic resolves soil-side corrosion challenges

Storage tanks used for product storage in industrial facilities are subject to soil-side corrosion during operation, especially when installed in severe environments.

Outokumpu stainless steel for Jyväskylä station

Outokumpu has recently supplied Ultra 254 SMO stainless steel grade for Jyväskylä Energy Group’s power station in Jyväskylä, with peat and wood as main fuels, after comprehensive field tests with a wide range of materials.


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.