Various factors cause corrosion. A recent study estimated the cost of corrosion to be around $2.5 trillion per year. Corrosion is a chemical process in which metals react with their environment, including water, oxygen, and other chemicals. The majority of metals used in man-made structures are naturally found in ore, but exposure to these elements in varying quantities can cause separation and reduced stability. The good news is that there are many simple methods to protect metals from corrosion.
The active process of corrosion protection includes the addition of an inhibitor to the metal to be protected. The inhibitor reduces the aggressiveness of the corrosion process. Other methods use “sacrificial anodes” that attack less noble metals first, like aluminium or zinc, and then form a protective layer to separate the metal from its environment. Nevertheless, some applications are more suitable for certain environments than others.
In addition to the physical dangers of corrosion, the process can result in costly repairs. Corrosion can affect any metallic surface or structure. A water tank can rust, a domestic pipe can leak, and an entire public building can be ruined by corrosion. The good news is that these effects are easily preventable, and new technologies make the process much safer and more effective. By taking a proactive approach to corrosion prevention, you’ll ensure the safety of your assets, and the health of our planet in the process.
Prevention is the best protection against corrosion. Planning ahead and applying effective prevention methods will prolong the life of your metal, preserve its aesthetic appearance, and prevent further damage from occurring. There are many methods to protect metal from corrosion, including the use of specialized protective coatings, and using anticorrosive paints and other chemical treatments. In addition to preventing the onset of corrosion, you should ensure that your metals are protected against extreme temperatures. For details on HVOF coatings, go to www.poeton.co.uk/standard-treatments/plasma-coatings/
The most common active method of corrosion protection is cathodic protection. Cathodic protection involves the formation of a cathodic surface on a metal surface that prevents corrosion. A cathodic surface protects the metal from corrosion by using an external electrode. This method is highly effective in preventing corrosion.
A proactive corrosion management strategy can improve critical asset design, operation, and maintenance. However, it must be based on a change in decision-making processes. The more proactive and effective the plan, the better. It’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the causes of corrosion, and what measures can be taken to prevent it. For example, the best strategy is to have an integrated corrosion management plan in place.
