Corrosion Rate
Corrosion rate is the estimated loss of material thickness over a defined period caused by corrosion.
What this term means in maintenance
Corrosion rate is the estimated loss of material thickness over a defined period caused by corrosion.
Basic formula
Corrosion rate = (Previous thickness - Current thickness) ÷ Time interval
The calculation should use consistent units and measurement locations.
Practical example
A pipe thickness decreases from 8.0 mm to 7.6 mm over two years.
Corrosion rate = 0.2 mm per year
Use
Corrosion rate supports remaining-life estimates, inspection intervals, repair decisions, and risk review.
Data quality
Measurements should use consistent locations, methods, calibration, and operating context.
Common mistake
Calculating rate from two uncertain readings can create a misleadingly precise result.
Related concepts
Related maintenance terms
Keep exploring connected CMMS, reliability, and maintenance planning terms.
Wall Thickness Measurement
Wall thickness measurement determines the remaining material thickness of piping, vessels, tanks, and other components affected by corrosion or erosion.
Degradation Mechanism
A degradation mechanism is the physical, chemical, electrical, thermal, or mechanical process that progressively reduces equipment condition or performance.
Remaining Useful Life
Remaining Useful Life is an estimate of how long an asset or component can continue performing acceptably before repair, replacement, or failure.
Corrosion Rate FAQs
- What is corrosion rate?
The estimated material-thickness loss per unit of time.
- How is it calculated?
Thickness loss divided by the measurement time interval.
- Why can the result be unreliable?
Different locations, measurement error, and limited readings can distort the rate.