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.

New from Tyco

Tyco Valves & Controls announces the release of the Morin MRP & MRS Rack and Pinion pneumatic actuators.

Larger bore for filters

Parker Filter Division Europe has extended its Advantage PFA fluoropolymer single cartridge filter vessels series with the introduction of a new 20in version.

Making swimming pools safe

Last year, after the ceiling of a swimming pool at Steenwijk collapsed, concerns were raised about the safety of ceilings in other swimming pools (see this site, 20 August 2001).

Titanium used on Statfjord platforms

Statoil is to use titanium in the replacement of 40 separate fire protection systems on its three platforms, Statfjord A, B and C, over a period of 2–3 years.

Publications from SSINA

Specialty Steel Industry of North America has produced a publication, “Stainless Steel Rebar Guidelines for Shipping, Handling, Fabrication and Placementâ€?.

Dynamet moves into motorsports

Dynamet Incorporated, a subsidiary of Carpenter Technology Corp., has formed a strategic alliance with Renton Coil Spring (RCS) Company related to titanium coil springs for high-performance motorsports and recreation applications.

Inovati wins R&D 100 award

Inovati (Santa Barbara, CA, USA) has won an R&D 100 award for 2002 from R&D Magazine for the development of equipment and processes for its low-temperature metal deposition technique, Kinetic Metallization (KM).

Baosteel to build heavy plate mill

Baoshan Iron & Steel Group Co. Ltd. (Baosteel, Shanghai, China), has placed an order for the construction of a 5-meter heavy-plate mill with an international consortium under the leadership of SMS Demag AG.

New report reveals corrosion costs

A recently released study sponsored by NACE International estimates the annual direct cost of corrosion in the USA to be USD 276 billion.

Figure 800 safety relief valve

Spence Engineering Company Inc., Walden, New York has announced the Figure 800 Safety Relief Valve with all stainless steel internals for improved corrosion resistance.


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.