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.

V linear motion systems

RA Rodriguez announces its new Schatz Double V linear motion systems.

Hydrodynamic sampler

Asepco has designed its new hydrodynamic sampler based on customer feedback.

FTE Series steam traps

Nicholson Steam Trap, of Walden, New York, has announced its new FTE Series float and thermostatic steam traps in sizes 1/2â€? to 2â€?, for pressures from 5PSI to 464PSI and temperatures to 850°F.

High vacuum valves

A new series XM and XY range of lightweight, precision cast, stainless steel high vacuum valves, from SMC Pneumatics (UK), have been developed to reduce the effects of corrosion by the use of SCS13 body material.

Liquid and gas filters

Boll & Kirch, a manufacturer of automatic filtration equipment, has launched a new range of liquid and gas filters – showing for the first time at Offshore Europe 2005.

Inductive sensors

The new Contrinex (UK) Series 700 range of inductive sensors is now available in food-safe stainless steel (V4A/AISI 316L/DIN 1.4435) and fitted with TPE-S cables sealed to IP69K or S12 connectors that provide protection to IP68 and IP69K.

New series C85, ISO 6432 cylinder

SMC Corp. of America now offers several cylinders that conform to ISO mounting dimensions.

SS shaft collars

In harsh and wet environments, Ruland Manufacturing Co. is now offering stainless steel shaft collars to prevent corrosion.

Liquid level indicator

K-TEK has announced its new KM26 Magnetic Bargraph, a liquid level indicator designed for corrosive and flammable environments, with a hermetically sealed indicator to eliminate moisture problems.

Corrosion resistance chains

Based on its experience of supplying attachment chains to the food and packaging industry, power transmission specialist Cross+Morse, has extended its range to include stainless steel and corrosion protection chains; and introduced a manufacturing technique for associated attachments.


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.