Corrosion Failure

A corrosion failure occurs when the metal wears away or dissolves or is oxidized due to chemical reactions, mainly oxidation. It occurs whenever a gas or liquid chemically attacks an exposed surface, often a metal. Corrosion is accelerated by warm temperatures and by acids and salts. Corrosion products (e.g., rust, patina) can remain on the surface and protect it. Removing these deposits re-exposes the surface, and corrosion restarts and/or continues. Some materials resist corrosion naturally; others can be treated to protect (e.g., by coating, painting, galvanizing, or anodizing) against corrosion. An example of salt water corrosion of a cast iron bath tub is shown in the photograph below.

Example of salt water corrosion on cast iron metal surface.

Cases involving corrosion failures:
Swimming Pool Corrosion Staining
Corroded Pipe
Corrosion Failure Analysis
Failed Ammonia Pipe