Corrosion is a natural process through which refined metals are converted into more chemically stable forms such as oxides, hydroxides and/or sulfoxides. A huge amount of metals get wasted annually due to corrosion.

Chemical and/or electrochemical reaction with the working environment is a gradual destruction of materials due to corrosion. The more common term for corrosion is ‘Rusting’. Rusting in iron leading to iron oxide is a well-known example of electrochemical corrosion. Metals reacting with oxygen and sulfur is known as electrochemical oxidation.

Corrosion not only occurs in metal but also in many other materials like polymers or ceramics. The process of corrosion in non-metallic materials is called “degradation”. One of the significant reasons for low-quality metals or materials is corrosion, due to which useful properties like strength, appearance and permeability changes to gas or liquid.

Due to the rusting of iron and steel, there is global economic loss, estimated at £700,000,000 every year. The annual direct cost of metallic corrosion worldwide is $2.2 Trillion USD, predominantly due to Steel Corrosion. The large contribution of this cost is by North America while that of the US is $423 Billion.

The main reason for corrosion is exposure to moist air. Corrosion occurs when the surface is exposed, locally forming pits or cracks. It occurs less uniformly and extends across a wide area while corroding the surface. This process is less visible and predictable.

SIGMA TEST & RESEARCH CENTRE offers periodic testing service through its specialized testing staff and experts which help in preventing corrosion, ensuring the quality check and increasing life span of metal by identifying signs of fatigue, pitting, cracking and rusting as well as other forms of damages.

Problems like measurement of remaining wall thickness in pipes, tubes, or tanks that may be corroded on the inside surface remains predominantly an important issue in the power generation and petrochemical.

SIGMA TEST & RESEARCH CENTRE offer metal investigation i.e. where corrosion has already taken place during operation. This is beneficial to make preventive action for better corrosion resistance.

Testing Methods

1. ASTM B117:

In Sigma Test & Research Centre corrosion is detected by Salt Spray Test / Salt Fog – ASTM B117. It is widely used and internationally recognized method for evaluating coating under highly corrosive marine conditions. It also helps in comparing two or more materials. A fast way to analyse corrosion due to chloride chemical and saltwater is the Salt Spray test. To collect corrosion resistance data from non-coated and coated alloys is the main purpose of Salt Fog/Salt Spray Test. Being the oldest, corrosion test has been widely used and that’s how it became a universal test. In this test, it is possible to test different type of materials like painted, bare sacrificial or noble coating.

2. HIC Testing:

Hydrogen Induced Cracking Test is performed to accurately determine and test the hydrogen-induced cracking over the exposed surface of the metal. HIC testing apparatus meets requirements of ASTM / NACE Standard TM0284 and is suitable to test material as per requirements of NACE MR0175.

3. Coating Evaluation:

It is widely used in electronic, biomedical and many other industries dealing in a metal-based item. It is a treatment which provides corrosion resistance to prevent failure and corrosion, improve reliability, and increase the life of the product. Experts with the modern and latest technology will provide clear, accurate analysis and solutions to clients in a wide range of metal industries.

4. Hydrogen Embrittlement:

If steel becomes brittle and fractures due to subsequent diffusion of hydrogen then hydrogen embrittlement method is used. Stress in the environment is the second reason for diffusion. The main cause for the diffusion is material and chemical properties of the metal in which hydrogen is introduced on the surface of a metal and hydrogen atom is individually diffused through the metal.

5. Sensitization:

When stainless steel is improperly heated, it leads to excessive formation of chromium carbides at the grain boundaries then sensitization occurs. Inter-granular attack (IGA) and inter-granular corrosion (IGC) are well-known forms of corrosion that result in sensitization.

6. An intergranular attack in austenitic stainless steel tested by ASTM A262

Through specialized staff and experts, we provide solutions by helping you.