Corrosion occurs as metals seek to revert to their natural state. [Credit: Jean Vella/ Unsplash]
Key Takeaways:
Corrosion is a longstanding and evolving challenge for aircraft, affecting both metal and wooden components.
For metal aircraft, corrosion is an electrochemical deterioration ("rust") requiring specific conditions, while wooden aircraft experience "dry rot" caused by moisture and fungus.
Beyond the airframe, corrosion is a "silent killer" that can compromise critical systems such as propellers, avionics (accounting for 20% of failures), and engine parts.
Corrosion has existed as long as aircraft. Although it was most likely not on the minds of Wilbur and Orville Wright during their famous 12-second flight, it nonetheless quickly became the archnemesis of many aviators.
As aircraft progressed, so did the enemy. Corrosion identification, prevention, and treatment is an ongoing battle.
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Richard is a US Navy Veteran, A&P Mechanic, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University alumni. His experience ranges from general and corporate aviation to helicopters, business jets, and commercial airliners. Former owner of a 145 repair station, he currently has an aerospace product management role and is a member of the T-C-Alliance. Follow him on X (Twitter) at @RScarCo.
