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.

Electroless Nickel available in high volumes

Frost Electroplating (Birmingham, UK) has increased its electroless nickel plating capability.

New wireline steel grade from Sandvik

Sandvik Materials Technology announces that its new stainless steel precision wire grade developed for sour service slicklines and logging cables offers both operating and cost benefits, including reduced down-time.

New nickel alloy

Eutectic UK has developed and patented a new spray-and-fused powder alloy for one of the toughest corrosion and wear applications available.

UK: Smar to supply Ekofisk

Smar will supply more than 400 pressure and temperature transmitters to a platform in the North Sea operated by ConocoPhillips.

Sampling cylinders

Parker Instrumentation has launched a range of stainless steel sampling cylinders.

Stainless filters for pool

Filtration & Pumping Commercial Ltd (New Zealand)now manufactures the full range of FPC / Atlas Pressure Diatomaceous Earth Filters in 100% T316 Stainless Steel.

Outokumpu bridge project

Outokumpu Stainless Hot Rolled Plate has received an order from Hong Kong for stainless steel to be used in the construction of a bridge.

Spray-and-fused powder alloy

Eutectic UK has developed and patented a new spray-and-fused powder alloy for one of the toughest corrosion and wear applications available.

Submersible pump from Lowara

Lowara, part of the ITT Industries Group, has introduced a new submersible pump made of stainless steel.

Anti-terrorist protection

MMIC EOD, designers of equipment to inspect and neutralise terrorist devices, have chosen specially adapted pneumatic components from Parker Hannifin for its Monica case entry system.


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.