Corrosion occurs as metals seek to revert to their natural state. [Credit: Jean Vella/ Unsplash]
Key Takeaways:
Corrosion has been a persistent threat to aircraft since early aviation, manifesting as "dry rot" in wooden components and electrochemical deterioration (rust) in metal parts.
Metal corrosion requires four specific conditions (anode, cathode, electrolyte, and metal-to-metal contact), and eliminating any one of these can stop the process.
Beyond airframes, corrosion significantly impacts critical aircraft systems like propellers, engine parts, and avionics, being responsible for 20 percent of avionics equipment failures.
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.
