Corrosion compromises the performance, efficacy, and safety of metal and concrete worksites and equipment. There are several different types of corrosion, each withering surfaces in a unique way. Adopting preventative measures for each of the various kinds of corrosion can save your company thousands of dollars on equipment repairs and replacements. In this article, Dreiym Engineering navigates how to prevent atmospheric corrosion to help you safeguard your investments.
A Brief Breakdown of Atmospheric Corrosion
Before diving into preventative methods, here’s a brief description of what atmospheric corrosion is for a more complete understanding.
Atmospheric corrosion most commonly showcases itself as iron oxide, or rust. Rust often jeopardizes metals’ integrity, causing them to turn brittle.
Atmospheric corrosion is an electrochemical reaction of oxygen and carbon dioxide interacting within a moist environment. Because atmospheric corrosion stems from the presence of moisture, it’s common that worksites in humid environments experience this type of corrosion.
Why Does It Matter?
Atmospheric corrosion can ruin even the most durable of machinery and building components. If you don’t address a corrosion issue on your company’s worksite or attempt to prevent the problem, you risk limiting the lifespan of metals that are essential in construction and manufacturing. Weakened infrastructure also hinders employee safety, something every company should prioritize.
How To Stop It From Affecting Your Worksite
Fortunately, there are effective methods to prevent atmospheric corrosion and avoid costly repairs or replacements. Cathodic protection is one of the most consistent preventative measures to safeguard infrastructure from this type of corrosion. The following is a short explanation of how the two cathodic protection methods work.
- Galvanic Cathodic Protection System: Using sacrificial anodes, galvanic cathodic protection systems safeguard metal structures. The sacrificial anodes are electrically linked to metals and virtually serve as a shield. The anode will then engage with the corrosive environment rather than the infrastructure, protecting it.
- Impressed Current Cathodic Protection System: In extremely corrosive environments, this type of cathodic protection is often necessary. It’s one of the longest-lasting and most powerful forms of protection against atmospheric corrosion. A power supply supports more current flow to the infrastructure, which in turn provides a near-constant stream of protection.
At Dreiym Engineering, our team of cathodic protection contractors has a deep knowledge of all things related to corrosion. We perform a direct and comprehensive assessment of your infrastructure, equipment, or whatever asset you need to protect. Then we provide an approach that will best protect your property and employees. Contact us today to learn more about our variety of cathodic protection and corrosion surveys and receive an accurate quote for our thorough services.
