Corrosion
Corrosion is a natural process in which metals deteriorate through chemical or electrochemical reactions with their environment. The most common form is the rusting of steel caused by exposure to oxygen and moisture.
Where does corrosion occur?
Corrosion affects any steel structure exposed to demanding environmental conditions, including:
- Oil & Gas – pipelines, storage tanks, and offshore platforms.
- Petrochemical & Chemical – reactors, vessels, and piping systems.
- Marine & Offshore Wind – ship hulls, ballast tanks, and turbine foundations.
- Infrastructure & Energy – bridges, cranes, power plants, and steel structures.
For you as an asset owner, corrosion results in loss of structural integrity, safety risks, and high maintenance costs if not properly controlled.
Extra explanation and types of corrosion
Common types of corrosion include:
- Uniform corrosion – even material loss across the entire surface.
- Pitting corrosion – small but deep holes penetrating into the metal.
- Crevice corrosion – corrosion occurring in shielded areas such as beneath gaskets.
- Galvanic corrosion – corrosion occurring between two dissimilar metals.
- Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) – hidden corrosion beneath insulation, commonly found in petrochemical plants and offshore environments.
Preventing corrosion requires:
- Proper surface preparation – Sa 2½ cleanliness and the correct surface profile.
- Protective coatings – epoxy, polyurethane, or polymer-based coating systems.
- Regular inspection and maintenance.
Pinovo and corrosion protection
Pinovo’s dust-free vacuum blasting technology supports corrosion protection by:
- Safely and efficiently removing rust and damaged coatings.
- Achieving the required cleanliness and surface profile for optimal coating adhesion.
- Enabling work in ATEX environments without downtime.
- Preventing environmental contamination during corrosion removal.