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.

Pins and nails

Polypin (Architectural Supplies) has launched a new range of pins and nails.

Nickel expert dies

C.P. (Paul) Dillon, who acted as a consultant for the Nickel Development Institute (NiDI) and its successor, the Nickel Institute, has died.

Corrosion-resistant sensors

Titan Enterprises (UK) offers rugged sensors in corrosion-resistant engineering plastics or stainless for up to 0.5" line size, and 30 litres per minute flow.

High-pressure stirred cell in Hastelloy

Last year Membrane Extraction Technology (MET) launched the METcell, an improved design of the chemically resistant high-pressure stirred cell used in laboratories.

Protecting oilfield valves

Weld overlay cladding specialist Arc Energy Resources has applied a coating of corrosion-resistant alloy for A. Finkl & Sons, to protect a brand new oilfield valve and refurbish an old one.

Lids and covers stay shut

New from machine element specialists Elesa is the TL series of latching clamps which are ideal for light duty closure applications where quick opening is required .

Rolled Alloys Canada names vice president

Rolled Alloys Canada Inc. has named Hugh Khan Vice President and Director of Canadian Operations.

Seminar on SS finishes

Construction professionals visiting Interbuild on Tuesday 27 April have the opportunity to attend a RIBA CPD seminar "Selecting and Specifying Stainless Steel Finishes".

Stainless gearboxes for food industry

Baldor has launched a range of all-stainless-steel gearboxes for electric motors.

Steel swing bolts

Winco, a supplier of standard industrial machine components, has announced the availability of DIN Metric Steel and Stainless Steel Swing Bolts.


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.