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.

Avesta reveals new super duplex wire

Avesta Welding has expanded its already extensive duplex product range by introducing a new super duplex flux cored wire: Avesta FCW 2507/P100-PW. The wire is of the rutile type and has been specially developed for the positional welding of steels such as 2507, 1.

New pH-neutral solution to clean stainless welds

Ensitech, the Australian product development company, has introduced a new pH-neutral solution to clean stainless steel welds in Europe. Member of Parliament for Pudsey, Leeds, Stuart Andrew, launched the TB-31ND Neutral Weld Cleaning Fluid for Stainless Steel.

Taking hydropower to the 21st Century:

David Sear looks forward to a meeting with an Outokumpu expert about an intriguing application of lean duplex.

Boeing funds Dalhousie project for aerospace

The Boeing Company is making an investment in Dalhousie University to support research and development projects that will strengthen the aerospace industry’s potential and competitiveness in Canada and across the globe.

First polypropylene tanks installed at NSSC

Siemens Industry Inc has installed Japan's first polypropylene process tanks at Japanese Nippon Steel & Sumikin Stainless Steel Corporation. Siemens designed and installed the polypropylene pickling tanks for the No.

Outokumpu duplex stainless workshop

Outokumpu’s office in Brazil will host a workshop in Rio De Janeiro on 19 September 2011.

Can stainless steels be used for domestic water?

Well-known metallurgist Ko Buijs looks at the facts.

Ferrium® M54™ gets AMS 6516 specification

Ferrium® M54™, an ultra-high-strength, high-toughness steel designed by QuesTek Innovations LLC, has been issued Aerospace Material Specification 6516 by SAE International. The steel is also highly resistant to Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC).

Will the real renaissance please stand up?

David Sear is reminded of work during a cycle-ride along the Loire.

Sumitomo develops CR steel with tin

Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. (Sumitomo Metals) has created a new corrosion-resistant steel with tin (Sn) that can be used in salt-containing environments or cold climates where anti-freezing agents are sprayed.


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.