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.

Control valves solve corrosion problems

Amot 25000 Series solenoid-operated pneumatic control valves, of all stainless steel construction, have provided a rapid solution to vibration and corrosion problems for a manufacturer of diesel engine generator sets being used to power hydraulic power packs for controlling offshore wellhead control panels, sub-sea actuators and two hydraulic lifting winches.

TW appoints head of sales and marketing

TW Metals has appointed Dr Steve Jones as Head of Group Sales and Marketing.

Supermartensitics conference: call for papers

The Belgian Welding Institute has announced the first call for papers for the second Supermartensitic Stainless Steels Conference 2002, which will take place on 3-4 October 2002 in Brussels, Belgium.

Jim Redmond’s steps down as TMR president

Jim Redmond has announced he will partially retire from TMR Stainless (Pennsylvania, USA). Ralph Davison has become the President of TMR.

Duplex bridge in Bilbao, Spain

A bridge using duplex stainless steel as the main structural element is being constructed in Bilbao, Spain.

Three product pavilions return to Chemshow 2001

Three special product pavilions designed to serve as “shows within a showâ€? will be highlighted at the 49th CPI Exposition – the CHEM SHOW – on 23–25 October 2001 at the Javits Convention Center, New York.

Sandvik develops stainless steel for urea

A new stainless steel has been developed by Sandvik Steel, specifically for use in the production of Urea.

New Sandvik products at Schweissen Schneiden

New products will feature alongside a wide range of filler wire and rods, covered and strip electrodes and fluxes for welding stainless and high alloy steels on Sandvik’s Steel stand at Schweissen Schneiden.

Sandvik introduces new titanium grades

Sandvik Steel has extended its manufacturing capability for seamless titanium and zirconium tubes with the availability of two additional titanium grades.

New stainless steel for urea production

A new stainless steel has been developed by Sandvik Steel, specifically for use in the production of urea.


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.