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 for automobiles

A desire by car manufacturers to reduce corrosion in critical fuel system components has led to a sharp increase in the replacement of carbon steel with stainless steel components.

SS strip materials

Sandvik Materials Technology has introduced a new product form and launched a range of surface engineered stainless steel strip materials.

Pressure sensor for hazardous areas

American Sensor Technologies Inc. offers the AST4310 Pressure Sensor for measurement of gases and liquids in extremely harsh environments.

pH/conductivity transmitter

The new Liquiline M from Endress + Hauser is a pH/conductivity transmitter with a large plain text display that shows the measured value in sensibly sized figures 22mm high.

Clasp locks off switches

Castell Iso-Lok (UK) has introduced a “thin-haspâ€? Multi-Clasp for machine isolation.

Stainless electrical conduit

Kopex International offers its Liquid Tight electrical conduit made of stainless steel but with a polymer outer sleeve for use in food plants and breweries.

Rotary sensor goes stainless

The new SRS880 sealed rotary sensor from Penny + Giles Controls (USA) is now available with an optional stainless steel housing.

Stainless steel blades

Inossidabile introduces stainless steel blades made from austenitic stainless steel.

Low cost duplex hollow sections

Stalatube Oy has the capability to manufacture square and rectangular hollow sections in a new grade called ’Lean duplex’.

Right angle sanitary gear-motor

A new line of stainless steel Helical Bevel gear drives is now available from Falk Corp. (USA), for food industry sanitary requirements.


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.