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.

SS opportunities in the UK

At the Regional Forum prior to the Annual Dinner of the British Stainless Steel Association (BSAA), held on 9 November 2006, the Director, Mr Nigel Ward reminded delegates of the growth opportunities for use in the UK and reviewed the latest activities of the BSSA to promote and support development of the market.

Duplex desalination milestones

Duplex stainless steels have emerged as optimal materials for desalination.

Prudhoe Bay back to 400,000 barrels

BP has issued an update on 29 October 2006 announcing output from its Prudhoe Bay, Alaska pipelines, reporting that it has returned to its pre-shutdown level of over 400,000bpd.

Hart bv at Adipec

Hart bv has been a distributor of heat & corrosion resistant materials for over 40 years.

Siena Bridge

Siena, Italy is home to the world’s first major footbridge built from Outokumpu’s LDX 2101® duplex stainless steel.

Stainless steel workshop

The British Stainless Steel Association (BSAA) is holding a half-day workshop entitled “An introduction to stainless steelâ€? on Tuesday 28th November at the National Metalforming Centre in West Bromwich, UK.

Barksdale control products

The new UNS-RG40 level switch from Barksdale is designed for versatile applications in shipbuilding and plant engineering.

Food quality SS chain

Corrosion and acid-resistant RexPlus is one of the new generation of stainless steel roller chains from Rexnord, suitable for packaging and filling applications in the food and drink industries as well as for all wet and damp environments exposed to extreme conditions.

BP bypass plan

The Regulatory Commission of Alaska has granted temporary permits for BP PLC to connect the east side of Prudhoe Bay field to the nearby Endicott pipeline, enabling the restart of 105,000b/d of oil production. About half of the normal 400,000b/d of oil production from Prudhoe Bay has been shut down since August because of corrosion problems in an oil transit line.

SS vortex flowmeters

Universal Flow Monitors, exhibiting at ISA Expo 2006, has introduced its CoolPoint vortex shedding flowmeters with stainless steel bodies for corrosion resistance.


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.