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.

AvestaPolarit launches new website

AvestaPolarit launched a new website on 25 February.

Marine Corrosion Club

The Marine Corrosion Club is organising its annual series of technical presentations in the UK.

CuNiFe for maritime applications

CuNiFe products are used in many applications of the maritime area as these copper-nickel-iron alloys are highly resistant to sea water.

Smarter corrosion detector

InterCorr has recently added field/plant corrosion monitoring capabilities with the acquisition of the SmartCETTM line of online, real-time technology (www.buySmartCET.com) based on electrochemical noise for assessment of both general and localised corrosion.

Sandvik extends tubing stock

Sandvik Steel has extended its range of tubing with the addition of new sizes and a new highly corrosion-resistant steel grade.

Titanium risers

Stolt Comex Seaway, with financial assistance from the EC, has undertaken a project to demonstrate the value of titanium alloy pipes as a practical alternative to current flexible pipe technology for dynamic risers in floating production systems for the recovery of oil and gas reserves.

Fertiliser tube order from China

Sandvik Steel has received its largest ever order for heat exchanger tubes from the fertiliser industry in China.

Stainless UK creates marine division

Stainless UK Ltd has formed a new marine division which will specialise in corrosion- resistant materials for coastal and riverside projects.

Stainless steel shock absorbers

Ace Controls International is now adding stainless steel shock absorbers into its standard range of automation control equipment.

Super duplex strands and wire ropes

Advanced Metals International Group, the leading multi-metal stockholder/supplier and metal processor, announce the availability of new high performance strands and wire ropes for industrial, marine and chemical environments.


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.