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Corrosion Performance of Constructional Steels in Marine Applications

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Abstract

Corrosion is one of the most important factors to be considered in the design of offshore steel structures. In many instances, relatively simple design changes may prevent the occurrence of serious corrosion. Also, careful consideration should be given to the selection of methods for preventing corrosion to ensure that long term, economical protection is obtained.

High-strength low-alloy and alloy steels are available that have improved corrosion resistance over that of structural carbon steel in marine atmospheres and in the splash and tidal zones. Under total immersion conditions, however, the low-alloy and the alloy steels offer no advantage over carbon steel from a corrosion standpoint. Long-term corrosion data on various constructional steels under different exposure conditions will be reviewed. Galvanic corrosion, stress-corrosion cracking, and corrosion fatigue are discussed with emphasis on means for minimizing these forms of attack. Cathodic protection, metal sheathing, concrete encasement, and organic and metallic coatings are methods to be considered for preventing corrosion in marine applications.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. the Research Laboratory of U. S. Steel, Monroeville, Pa, USA

    R. J. Schmitt & E. H. Phelps

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  1. R. J. Schmitt
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  2. E. H. Phelps
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Schmitt, R.J., Phelps, E.H. Corrosion Performance of Constructional Steels in Marine Applications. JOM 22, 47–55 (1970). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03355631

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