Cavitation corrosion behaviour of L-80 carbon steel in sea water

Cavitation corrosion studies were conducted on L-80 carbon steel in seawater. The work included rate of mass loss versus time, potential time measurements in the presence and absence of cavitation tests which were conducted at a frequency of 20 kHz and 25°C. The rate of mass loss with time increased initially and then reached a steady state value after 50 h of cavitation. The corrosion potential shifted to less negative values after imposing cavitation conditions on this alloy. Cavitation attack on the surface of the alloy was revealed (by the SEM) in the form of cavity pits. It is believed that both mechanical and electro-chemical factors have lead to metal loss.