High Temperature Corrosion
With summer in full swing, temperatures are on the rise and the sun is as big and bright as ever. Protection from the heat is a must when going outside. Whether it be using lots of sunscreen or dressing in light layers, there are several great and easy ways to stay safe from the heat. When it comes to industrial equipment however, sunscreen just doesn’t do the trick. A leading form of corrosion, high temperature corrosion can do a lot of damage on facilities of all kinds. Let’s take a closer look at what high temperature corrosion is and the many ways it exists in the world around us.
What is High Temperature Corrosion?
High temperature corrosion is essentially a chemical based attack propagated by gases and molten salts and metals. For high temperature corrosion to occur it has to reach a temperature above 400°C. Such high temperatures emit a vibrant red light and are rightfully referred to as red heat. Without the presence of liquid electrolytes, this type of corrosion will commonly occur as a direct result of the chemical reaction between metallic materials and various gaseous atoms.
Corrosion of this kind is typically found in furnaces, gas turbines, diesel engines, as well as boilers. Anywhere that contains red heat and a gaseous mixture, you will probably discover the damage done by high temperature corrosion. It’s important to note that high temperature corrosion is really an umbrella term for a whole slew of various kinds of corrosion. Understanding and differentiating what type of corrosion you are dealing with is vital to understanding how to stop it in its place.
Types of High Temperature Corrosion
While various kinds of high temperature corrosion exist, carburization and oxidation remain the most common forms. Carburization occurs when carbon bonds with chromium. Gaseous mixtures unite with material at high temperatures leading to a reduction in the resistance of metal materials. This leaves any metallic material brittle and impure. Carburization is common in steam plants, often cracking the furnaces located in these plants. Similarly, oxidation also leaves material cracked, brittle, or far from its pure and original state. Oxidation puts several types of industrial industries at risk including metal processing, waste, aerospace, power, and chemical.
With no material being completely immune to the dangers of high temperature corrosion, prevention and careful design are key. Give us a call today at 432-606-4093 and keep your equipment free from the dangers of high temperature corrosion. We will give your equipment the inspection it needs with the estimate you deserve. By providing services designed to prevent corrosion, we help clients avoid costly steel repair or replacement. Visit our website at www.spearindustrial.com or call us today at 432-606-4093 and let us help you protect your investment.