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.

Sumitomo 347AP

Austenitic stainless steels such as TP321 and TP347 are widely used to make equipment for use in desulferizing plants in the petroleum refinery industry.

Heavy wall pipe range expanded

Sandvik has increased its range of heavy wall pipe available as part of its standard stock programme with the duplex stainless steel heavy wall pipes in Sandvik SAF 2205™.

WaterMark upgrade

Australian Stainless Steel Development Association member ACO Polycrete has upgraded its WaterMark accredited range of stainless steel building drainage systems.

JSSA SS piping system

The Japanese Stainless Steel Association (JSSA) has entered into a 3yr program designed to expand the use of long lasting nickel containing stainless steel in residential high-rise piping systems throughout the country.

Duplex stainless steel rebars

Outokumpu has introduced corrosion resistance duplex stainless steel reinforcing bars into the Indian market for the first time.

Nickel alloy 825

Sandmeyer Steel Co. has added 825 (UNS N08825, W. Nr. 2.4858) to its extensive line of corrosion resistant stainless steel and nickel alloy plate and plate products.

SS 6MO stainless steel

Sandmeyer Steel Co. has added SSC 6MO to its extensive line of corrosion resistant stainless steel and nickel alloy plate and plate products.

ORNL develops cheaper titanium

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and industry partners are developing a non-melt consolidation process that could reduce the amount of energy required and the cost to make titanium parts from powders by up to 50%, making it feasible to use titanium alloys for brake rotors, artificial joint replacements and armor for military vehicles.

LDX 2101 silos

A Spain-based technology provider for the ceramics industries, has replaced a conventional austenitic grade with Outokumpu’s duplex LDX 2101® in silos for atomized clay, achieving better durability, corrosion resistance and economy.

LNG pipe for dock loading facility

In Qatar, LNG exports from the state’s Port of Ras Laffan are expected to reach 77 million tpy by the end of 2010, making the Port the world’s largest LNG export terminal, over three times larger in capacity than its closest rival.


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.