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.

Stainless bridges

The state of Oregon in the NW USA is using S32205 stainless steel to build a bridge designed to last 120 years, according to Virginia Heffernan (Nickel magazine, February 2003).

Tantalum is back

Tantalum, used in plant and equipment construction, is fully available again – and will be exhibited by COMETEC GmbH at ACHEMA 2003 (19–24 May 2003).

Sandvik Safurex for urea production

The high-pressure vessels in the new Assaluyeh urea production plant in Iran are being constructed in Sandvik Material Technology's recently developed Sandvik SafurexTM steel grade.

Titanium 101

The Titanium Information Group is offering "The Fundamentals of Titanium", a one- day workshop that to prepare people to work effectively with titanium.

Fasteners are dedicated to stainless uses

A new bulletin available free from PEM Fastening Systems profiles all types of PEM self-clinching nuts, studs and stand-offs designed specifically for attachment applications in stainless steel assemblies.

Stainless steel goes public

A special report undertaken on behalf of the British Stainless Steel Association (BSSA) has highlighted potential for increased use in public and commercial buildings.

Kinder-Janes expands

Kinder-Janes Engineers Ltd, best known for their range of specialist process pumps and heat exchangers, have expanded their product range to include lined piping and fittings.

New appointment at AstroCosmos

Matthew J. Thayer has been promoted to North American Director of Sales and Technology at AstroCosmos Metallurgical, Camarillo, CA, USA.

Schutz to win Speller award at NACE 2003

NACE International will honour Ronald W. Schutz with the Frank Newman Speller Award on 16 March at Corrosion 2003, to be held at San Diego, California.

Investigation into fasteners

Last year SSF was invited by DNV of Bergen, Norway, to participate in a special research project.


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.