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Uncoated AISI 304 drain piping fastened by carbon steel hangers

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ShipProtect

Marine/Ocean
Jul 16, 2003
6
The SS piping system is located both on the exterior and the interior of a steel ship.

Weather exposed pipes will be coated. (Epoxy 12 mil)

Piping in interior spaces will be subject to condensation due to the temp gradient.

Can condensation be considered an electrolyte allowing galvanic corrosion to occur?

We are currently evaluating the need to isolate the SS pipes from the carbon steel structure by rubber cushions. Or to use zinc coated and/or powder coated U-bolts.

Any advice will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

 
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Your apprehensions are valid. The condensation will provide the electrolyte for the galvanic couple. Corrosion of the steel hangers will occur. Then the rust from that corrosion will cause the stainless to corrode also.
Eliminating the galvanic couple is essential. Isolate the hanger and then protect it from corrosion, so it doesn't contaminate the stainless with casual rust.
Secondarily, watch for the corrosion resistance of your SS piping. Certain welding and surface treatments can greatly enhance or reduce corrosion resistance.
 
Thanks for you response Mcguire.

Welding is not an issue; the pipe is manufactured in modules to be connected by rubber sleeves.

The project engineer seems to be convinced that galvanized U-bolts will be OK. My concern is the materials are very far apart. The SS will be cathodic to the steel and even more cathodic to the Zinc, since the cathodic area is much larger than the anodic, it will accelerate the corrosion of the galvanized finish and corrosion will eventually get to the steel.

Or, will the natural zinc oxide passive the process?

The electrolyte will be limited to condensation.

Regards
 
You are correct on the zinc having to protect both the hanger and the pipe if they are in electrical contact. This will reduce the life span of the zinc coating. It sounds as if the success of the design depends on the quality of the insulation between the hanger and the stainless.
 
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