Materials Expert, Dr Philippa Moore, recently presented at Marine Claims International, Dublin.
Philippa’s presentation: It’s Not Just Rust: A Forensic Investigator’s View of Corrosion in Steels provided insight into the impact corrosion has on the shipping industry. Philippa gave examples of common hull and machinery incidents, such as engine failures, wire rope damage, hull corrosion, and the issues that can arise in the corrosion of steel cargo. She explained that only by understanding the principles of corrosion, can a forensic investigator determine how significant the damage may be and how best to treat it.
Philippa explained the way that a forensic materials engineer investigates the appearance of corroded surfaces, as well as details of exposure conditions when identifying if the damage is something more significant, such as pitting and cracking. Describing the differences between red, yellow, brown or black rust and how these occur, she highlighted that some iron and steel objects make use of corrosion to deliberately create a ‘weathered’ surface appearance. Some ornamental structures are intended to rust as part of the aesthetic design such as the Angel of The North sculpture.
However, in the marine industry, it is important to keep corrosion at bay. Philippa discussed the different approaches that are used to prevent rust and corrosion, including paints and coatings, and sacrificial anodes and cathodic protection, explaining how each of these are used and applied. For steel cargoes, keeping the goods dry and protected from rain, sea water or sea spray is vital to prevent rusting during transport; they are best kept in a well-ventilated environment, avoiding condensation and humid conditions as the temperature changes throughout the day and night cycles between embarkation and destination. Philippa’s full presentation is available to watch here or below:
Dr Philippa Moore joined Hawkins in 2022 and is based in our Cambridge office. She specialises in materials failures and escapes of water and oil. If you would like Philippa or any of our materials experts to present to your organisation or to carry out an investigation, please contact us.
