Building Corrosion Prevention Design
Successful corrosion prevention greatly depends on the proper design of a building. With the right design, corrosion of building components can be minimized or avoided altogether. Materials and components must be selected with corrosion resistance in mind. Buildings must be designed with the proper orientation to limit moisture, ventilation and drainage must be taken into account and proper access and insulation must be installed.
The first step in effective corrosion prevention is proper material selection. Different metals react differently to the environment and must be chosen accordingly. Generally, stainless steel and aluminum are the two most corrosion resistant metals for building applications. Where possible, these should be used for components that are exposed to the elements or constantly wet. For components that are not exposed to the elements, steel and iron components are normally sufficient.
When selecting materials for corrosion prevention, the type of corrosion the metal may be exposed to must also be taken into account. Corrosion protection materials, such as zinc or galvanized steel, can be used to protect metal components from corrosion. These materials are often used for components that are located near salt water or other corrosive environments. Additionally, paints and coatings can also be used to provide additional protection against corrosion.
The design of the building must also be taken into account when designing a corrosion prevention plan. For example, orientation of the building will be important in preventing corrosion. Buildings should be oriented so that they face away from the prevailing winds, and runoff from rain should be directed away from the building to minimize exposure to moisture. Additionally, air circulation and ventilation must be considered so that damp, humid air can be discharged away from the building and replaced with dry, fresh air.
Access to building components is also an important consideration. Without proper access, components cannot be maintained, inspected or repaired. This will make it impossible to detect corrosion before significant damage occurs, resulting in expensive repairs or replacement. It is important to consider access in the original design of the building and build access points at the most logical points.
Finally, insulation is an important part of corrosion prevention in building design. Insulation can help reduce condensation and keep moist air from reaching metal components. Insulation can also help keep components at more consistent temperatures, which can help prevent corrosion.
In conclusion, proper corrosion prevention for building components must consider materials, design, access, and insulation. With proper planning, corrosion can be minimized and expensive repairs and replacements can be avoided.
