Corrosion in Carbon Steel Pipes Due to Air Pressure

In summary, the discussion revolves around the cause of corrosion in carbon steel pipes used for compressed air transport. The consensus is that moisture in the air is the primary culprit, although pressure can also contribute to fatigue issues. There is also an interesting theory that the growth of micro-organismic life, similar to biofilm, could accelerate corrosion. However, it is acknowledged that electrochemical corrosion is the main cause.
  • #1
Ask1122
52
0
Hi all, just a quick question, I saw some of the carbon steel pipes which are used to tranpsort compressed air are corroded, when i ask, people told me that the corrosion was caused by the air. Is it the moisture in the air which causes the corrosion, or can the air pressure (sorry, can't remember the pressure in that pipe) within the pipe actually 'sheave' some of the pipe materials off?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
It's going to be because of the moisture content in the compressed air. In compressed air systems, water content is a huge problem that is usually overlooked and not dealt with properly because it can be expensive to handle. Pressure by itself can cause fatigue issues, but not corrosion.
 
  • #3
unpopular idea
rust is caused by life
life needs water
rust needs water

iron in a water free environment [ deserts]
doesNOT rust

rust grows in shapes that look very much like
the growth of micro-organismic life in a petri dish
 
  • #4
similar to the "biofilm" that degrades plastic?

I am intrigued, and must ponder...hhmmmmm

dr
 
  • #5
ray b said:
unpopular idea
rust is caused by life
life needs water
rust needs water

iron in a water free environment [ deserts]
doesNOT rust

rust grows in shapes that look very much like
the growth of micro-organismic life in a petri dish

dr dodge said:
similar to the "biofilm" that degrades plastic?

I am intrigued, and must ponder...hhmmmmm

dr

Maybe, however:
a) There's still plenty of bacteria in dryer environments
b) If you heat pasteurize or gamma irradiate a sample of iron in water (thus killing all the bacteria), it'll still rust.

EDIT: Not to say that 'life' isn't going to accelerate corrosion (unless it actually does the opposite and builds up a layer that prevents moisture / oxygen from getting through), but life isn't going to supply moisture out of nowhere.
 
  • #6
ray b said:
unpopular idea
rust is caused by life
life needs water
rust needs water

iron in a water free environment [ deserts]
doesNOT rust

rust grows in shapes that look very much like
the growth of micro-organismic life in a petri dish

rust is caused by electrochemical corrosion.
 
  • #7
Thanks for the input guys! :)
 

1. What is corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure?

Corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure is the gradual deterioration of the pipes caused by a chemical reaction between the metal and the surrounding air. This type of corrosion is known as atmospheric corrosion and can lead to serious damage to the pipes over time.

2. What causes corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure?

The main cause of corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure is the presence of oxygen and moisture in the air. When these elements come into contact with the metal, they initiate a chemical reaction that causes the metal to break down and form rust.

3. How can corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure be prevented?

Corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure can be prevented by implementing protective measures such as coating the pipes with anti-corrosion materials, controlling the humidity and temperature levels in the surrounding air, and regularly inspecting and maintaining the pipes.

4. What are the signs of corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure?

The signs of corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure may include discoloration, flaking or scaling of the surface, pitting or cracks in the metal, and a decrease in the strength and integrity of the pipes. It is important to address these signs promptly to prevent further damage.

5. Can corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure be repaired?

In most cases, corrosion in carbon steel pipes due to air pressure can be repaired. This may involve cleaning and removing the rust, applying a protective coating, or replacing the damaged section of the pipe. However, it is always best to prevent corrosion from occurring in the first place through proper maintenance and care.

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