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 CD-ROM stainless passivity

The electro-chemical process behind the passivity of stainless steels is explained in a new CD-ROM by Euro Inox, Brussels.

Duplex arch for York Millennium Bridge

Officially opened in April 2001, the 140m-long York Millennium Bridge crosses the River Ouse on the southern boundary of the City.

Street stainless

Centro Inox (The Italian Stainless Steel Development Association) has organised a seminar in Bologna during the afternoon of 7 February on the use of stainless steel in street furniture.

Sandvik offers new welding wire

Sandvik Steel has launched a new range of welding wire, covered and strip electrodes and fluxes for welding nuclear steam generator tubing.

New Sandvik medical steel

Following the launch of Sandvik Bioline High-N, JRI Ltd, the UK specialists in the manufacture of hip and knee replacement prostheses, has chosen the new steel for an additional range of Furlong® Modular Hip Replacement Systems.

Welding conference: call for papers

On 2–3 October 2003 an international conference will held on “Joining of Corrosion Resistant Materialsâ€? in Opatija, Croatia.

Steam traps for large process applications

Bestobell Steam Traps Division of Richards Industries introduces the Magnum Series Steam Traps – a versatile line of high-capacity steam traps.

CMC to begin stainless cladding

Commercial Metals Co. will construct a facility to develop and manufacture corrosion-resistant stainless steel clad products such as reinforcing bar, dowels and structural shapes for use in construction.

Spence Figure 32, 42, 42A Safety Valves

Spence Engineering Company Inc., Walden, New York, has announced a line of safety valves featuring a stainless steel base and disc which provide longer life, better corrosion resistance and higher set pressure ranges.

Stainless Steel World 2001: day 2

Lively workshops, fascinating papers, a seminar on market research and of course the traditional conference dinner were among the highlights of the Stainless Steel World 2001 Conference and Expo's second day.


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.