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.

ArcelorMittal’s marine steel in Shetland Islands

Contractor Shetland Islands chose ArcelorMittal to supply 3,600 tonnes of sheet piles – including 3,200t of corrosion-resistant AMLoCor© – to develop the Quay’s main wall and anchor wall, following a successful smaller project at the same port two years ago.

NSSMC joint venture for automotive steel production

PT KRAKATAU NIPPON STEEL SUMIKIN laid a cornerstone for a new plant in the Krakatau Industrial Estate Cilegon, Banten Province, the Republic of Indonesia, on August 25, 2015.

Duplex Self Tapping Screws Are Perfect Fasteners

Corrosion is an ever-present threat to many metal structures, particularly those located in marine environments such as offshore oil and gas facilities. Grade 316 stainless steel screws are widely used in the construction of such facilities and is being superseded by tougher, longer-lasting duplex self tapping screws.

Norsok Approves Sandvik Super-Duplex Solid Bar

Sandvik has achieved NORSOK® certification for its duplex and new super-duplex solid bar opening up greater application opportunities as they all meet the exacting demands and standards of the oil & gas industry. Extensive work by Sandvik has resulted in the new NORSOK® M-630, Edition 6 accreditation being secured for duplex solid bar grades Sandvik SAF 2205™ and Sandvik SAF 2507™.

Stainless steel takes centre stage

The resurgence of stainless steel in construction has seen it take many forms. Its resistance to corrosion, long life expectancy, aesthetic value and overall sustainability all combine in its favour. For the John Lewis Store and Cineplex, which formed part of a major city centre regeneration scheme in Leicester, an Aperam stainless steel rain screen was commissioned.

Bodycote launches new European facilities

Bodycote, the thermal processing services provider, is investing significantly in new specialty stainless steel processes (S3P) facilities. In response to exponentially growing customer demand, the company’s S3P subdivision recently opened a new Greenfield facility in France and completed another round of expansion in its Ohio, North America site.

New superduplex from Ugitech meets NORSOK standards

Ugitech, part of the SCHMOLZ + BICKENBACH Group, has expanded its product portfolio to include the UGI® 4410 superduplex stainless steel.

Sandvik launches Pressurfect for GDI tubing

Sandvik is launching the next generation of gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine components for lighter, more energy efficient cars with low emission engines.

Spelsberg expands steel enclosure range

Spelsberg UK has launched a range of steel enclosures to support its comprehensive product portfolio. The company has made the addition to its range to support its customers who work in extremely harsh environments where there may be a risk of heavy impact, explosion or contact with corrosive chemicals. Chris Lloyd, Spelsberg UK Managing Director, explains: “In most scenarios, even in heavy industry, non-metallic enclosures are the preferred solution.

Langley Alloys shifts to new premises in Singapore

Langley Alloys South East Asia, recently relocated to 9B Jalan Ampas, Singapore, as part of its strategic development plan. The company is expanding its operations rapidly in South East Asia and has now installed cutting facilities to support local customers.


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.