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 deep groove ball bearings

SKF has announced the release of its multi-purpose stainless steel deep groove ball bearings (DGBBS).

High-speed welding for CRAs

Australian scientists have produced a new high-speed welding technology that slashes hours from traditional joining of corrosion-resistant metals.

Arc Energy revamps work stations

Arc Energy Resources, a specialist in corrosion and wear resistant weld overlay cladding for the oil & gas, petrochemical and process industries, is completing a comprehensive refit of the work stations at its Gloucestershire factory.

New titanium from Allegheny

Allegheny Technologies Incorporated announces ATIT 425 titanium, a new titanium product that is an alternative to the most common high-strength titanium alloy and an addition to ATI's range of high-strength titanium alloys.

Sandvik boosts flat-rolled capacity

Sandvik Materials Technology has invested in and has now commissioned a new rolling mill for the production of stainless steel flat wire - a Sandvik speciality produced as an alternative to narrow strip.

Institute of Materials Prain Medal

The Prain Medal for 2003 has been awarded by the Institute of Materials and the Copper Development Association, to John Halliday, Chairman of Meighs Ltd and Langley Alloys.

Saer introduces submersible pump

Saer has introduced a range of submersible bore hole pumps, XS XNR in AISI 316 investment cast stainless steel.

Sandvik promotes tubular products

Sandvik Materials Technology is using Offshore Europe 2003 (Aberdeen, UK, 2–5 September 2003) to promote its full range of stainless steel tubular products for topside, subsea and downhole use.

Stainless-steel reinforcement

A new CD Rom from the British Stainless Steel Association (BSSA) contains a previously unpublished report on the "The Use of Stainless Steel Reinforcement in Bridges".

Corrosion applications conference

Specialty Metals in Corrosion Applications, the fourth in a series of biennial international conferences, will be hosted by Allegheny Technologies' Total Corrosion Solutions team of Allegheny Ludlum, Allvac, and Wah Chang.


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.