Why does stainless steel rust? And what can we do about it?

Apr 27, 2023

Stainless Steel Pipes and the Threat of Corrosion

Stainless steel pipes are a popular choice in many industrial settings due to their strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. However, even stainless-steel pipes are not immune to rust and other related issues, such as pitting or discoloration. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of the conditions that could lead to corrosion and take steps to prevent it.

Corrosion can occur in stainless steel pipes due to a variety of factors, including:

· Exposure to high temperatures: High temperatures can cause stainless steel to lose its protective oxide layer, making it more susceptible to corrosion.

· Presence of chlorides: Chlorides can weaken the oxide layer on the surface of stainless steel

· Contamination from other metals: If stainless steel pipes come into contact with other metals, it can cause galvanic corrosion. That is when two dissimilar metals touch while under the presence of an electrolyte.

· Exposure to acidic or alkaline substances: Stainless steel pipes exposed to acidic or alkaline substances can suffer from corrosion if the pH levels are not within the acceptable range.

It’s necessary to control these conditions to prevent corrosion. That includes, for example, maintaining appropriate temperature levels and avoiding contact with other metals or corrosive substances.

Visual inspection of stainless-steel pipes with videoscopes

Another effective way to detect and prevent corrosion in stainless steel pipes is through regular visual inspections. Visual inspections can help identify signs of corrosion, such as discoloration, pitting, or rust, and enable engineers to address the issue before it becomes a more significant problem.

Videoscopes are an effective tool for visual inspections of stainless-steel pipes. These instruments are small, flexible, and easily inserted into pipes and tubes to provide a detailed view of the interior. Videoscopes come with high-resolution cameras that can capture high-quality images and videos of the interior of pipes, allowing engineers to identify signs of corrosion and other issues with accuracy and ease.

Additionally, videoscopes are designed to be used in industrial settings, making them a safe and efficient option for inspecting stainless steel pipes. They are also portable and easy to use, so engineers can perform inspections quickly and efficiently without disassembling anything.

Mitcorp videoscopes for visual inspections of stainless steel pipes

1.   High-resolution imaging: Mitcorp videoscopes are equipped with high-resolution cameras that capture clear and detailed images of the interior of pipes, allowing engineers to identify signs of corrosion and other issues with accuracy and ease.

2.   Flexible design: The flexible design of Mitcorp videoscopes makes them ideal for inspecting pipes and other hard-to-reach areas. They can be easily inserted and controlled, providing a comprehensive inside view without disassembly.

3.   Portable and easy to use: Mitcorp borescope are designed to be portable and easy to use, allowing engineers to perform inspections quickly and efficiently without transporting heavy equipment to the inspection site.

4.   Durable construction: Mitcorp videoscopes are built to last, with robust construction designed to withstand the harsh conditions of industrial settings. They are also water and dust resistant, making them ideal for use in harsh environments.

5.   Cost-effective solution: Compared to other inspection methods, such as X-rays or other imaging technologies, Mitcorp videoscopes are a cost-effective solution for visual inspections of stainless steel pipes. They provide a detailed view of the interior at a fraction of the cost of other inspection methods.

6.   Real-time data: Mitcorp videoscopes provide real-time data, allowing engineers to monitor the inspection process and make decisions based on the information they receive. This real-time data can also be recorded and stored for future reference, providing a permanent record of the inspection process.

The Mitcorp X750

The best tool for inspecting stainless steel piping is the X750. It comes with tungsten-braided insertion probes available in two sizes, 3.9mm, and 6.0mm. The advantages of using the X750 include high-definition recording and portability, making it a versatile option for inspections. And, thanks to the X750’s manual exposure and brightness adjustments glare spots on shiny surfaces can be easily avoided. The X750 is equipped to handle these challenges and provide accurate and detailed inspections of stainless-steel piping. Additionally, the X750 comes with a comprehensive file management system that allows sorting, storing, and commenting on images and videos.

Easily add comments or annotations to your images with Mitcorp’ s comprehensive file management system.

 

The X750 during a welding inspection of a stainless-steel pipe.

 

The Conclusion

In conclusion, stainless steel pipes are a popular choice for industrial applications due to their strength and resistance to corrosion. However, it’s essential to be aware of the conditions that can lead to corrosion and take steps to prevent it. Visual inspections with Mitcorp videoscopes are an effective tool for maintaining stainless steel pipes. That allows engineers to maintain the integrity and longevity of these crucial components. Mitcorp videoscopes are ideal for visual inspections in industrial settings. With their high-resolution imaging, flexible design, and cost-effectiveness, they provide engineers with a comprehensive view of the interior of pipes and allow them to identify and address signs of corrosion and other issues with accuracy and ease.