Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
(OP)
I have a filter constructed from SS316L. It has experienced severe pitting around the sealing faces above and below the gasket.
How can I alleviate the situation to reduce the rate of pitting ? Should coatings be used or cathodic protection ?
What is the best way to rebuild the face of the seal so that we can return the filter to service ? Epoxy, machining or other ?
Any ideas wouold be greatly appreciated.
How can I alleviate the situation to reduce the rate of pitting ? Should coatings be used or cathodic protection ?
What is the best way to rebuild the face of the seal so that we can return the filter to service ? Epoxy, machining or other ?
Any ideas wouold be greatly appreciated.





RE: Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
1. Pitting of stainles steel under a gasket or o-ring is almost textbook-common.
2. If your filter has enough bulk to it and you can afford it, probably the best solution is to grind out the area under ther sealing surfaces (on both flange faces, say 1/8th inch deep, and 1/4 inch wider than the gasket), weld-cald a more noble material (inconel, for example), machine back to a smooth surface, and re-install. This is a great, albeit expensive fix.
RE: Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
The 6%Mo stainlesses will etch in seawater with tight crevices, but they are usually good enough. If you want something perfect go to a "C" type Ni-Cr-Mo alloy.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Corrosion, every where, all the time.
Manage it or it will manage you.
http://www.trent-tube.com/contact/Tech_Assist.cfm
RE: Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
We have decided to use fibreglass filter to replace the SS316L from service. This seems the cheapest options. Any other cheap options ?
RE: Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
What are you trying to filter?
RE: Seawater induced pitting of SS316L
If your temp and pressure allow, composites are a good choice.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Corrosion, every where, all the time.
Manage it or it will manage you.
http://www.trent-tube.com/contact/Tech_Assist.cfm