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.

Nippon Yakin Kogyo’s new website

Nippon Yakin Kogyo has recently launched a new website.

Sandvik Loniflex(tm)

Sandvik Materials Technology has developed Sandvik Loniflex(tm) a new, high quality, low nickel austenitic stainless steel for spring wire applications.

Montanstahl head office

Swiss-based steel-profile Montanstahl has built a new corporate head office with a novel duplex stainless steel skin as a reminder of the many possibilities of duplex.

Outokumpu aids solar plant

The Gemasolar Concentrating Solar Power plant, under construction by Torresol Energy in Sevilla, Spain, with help from Outokumpu, features technological breakthroughs in solar heat reception and storage systems.

Plymouth Tube to exhibit and present at IDA

Plymouth Tube Co. has announced that it will participate in the International Desalination Association (IDA) World Congress 2009, which will take place 7-12 November 2009 at the Atlantis Resort, Dubai, UAE.

Stainless plate heat exchangers

Australia-based Teralba Industries Pty, under license from US-based Paul Mueller Co., has released its complete range of Mueller Accu-Therm Plate heat exchangers.

Duplex stainless steels brochure

Sandvik has used its extensive metallurgic experience and research and development to produce and publish a new brochure which outlines the company's extensive steel products and capabilities.

Tantaline and Alloy Engineering team up

Tantaline®, a producer of tantalum surface alloys for valves, fittings, instrumentation, and custom products in hot acid environments, has announced a new alliance with Alloy Engineering Co. Inc., a manufacturer of thermowells for industrial applications.

Cronitect® steel

The Schaeffler Group has launched a high-performance stainless steel for rolling bearings.

U-Bend manufacturing center

RathGibson, a manufacturer of welded, welded and drawn, and seamless stainless steel, nickel, and titanium tubing, has incorporated an in-line U-Bend manufacturing center to produce ultra low stress feedwater heater tubing.


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.