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.

Chemical injection for oil & gas sector

YZ Systems, a division of Milton Roy, has introduced the Chemjex™ brand of chemical injection systems for the oil and gas industry.

Stainless chains

Renold has launched a new range of self-lubricating, stainless steel chains for applications where a clean environment and resistance to corrosion are important.

Investigating fasteners

Last year SSF was approached by DNV to be involved in a special research project.

Inconel alloy 22

Special Metals has launched a new product, Inconel alloy 22, to extend its range of nickel-base alloys for applications in very corrosive industrial environments.

Pulse-free metering pump

Quizix Inc. has released its QX Series metering pump made of stainless-steel, for applications in pharmaceutical research, catalyst or chemical injection.

SSW America 2004: call for papers

Stainless Steel World is organising a conference and exhibition dedicated to the use of corrosion-resistant alloys, and welcomes your participation through the submission of papers for oral presentation as well as poster contributions.

Kitz to include wider range of alloys

Kitz Corporation has announced that its integrated production system will include a host of additional stainless steel and high-alloy steel valve castings.

Duplex valves for flue gas applications

The Stainless Valve Company has fabricated two 48" valves for flue gas application, made in duplex stainless steel 2205.

Zero corrosion

A carefully drilled 1mm hole in the rear mid-frame of a 12 year-old Duple 425 coach has provided rather unusual evidence of the zero-corrosion performance of a high-performance stainless steel.

Indexing mechanisms

JW Winco now offers steel and stainless steel indexing mechanisms.


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.