The effect of ultrasonically induced cavitation conditions on the behaviour of L-80 carbon steel in seawater

An ultrasonically induced cavitation facility was used to study the cavitation corrosion behaviour of L-80 carbon steel in sea water. The work included measurements of free corrosion potentials, and mass loss in the presence and absence of cavitation. The cavitation tests were made at a frequency of 20 kHz and at a temperature of 50°C. Cavitation conditions caused an active electronegative shift in the free corrosion potential of this alloy. Cavitation also increased the rate of mass loss of this alloy as a function of exposure time. Cavitation made the surface of this alloy very rough, exhibiting large cavity pits in the middle region of the attacked area as revealed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Mechanical factors were determined to be the leading cause of metal loss.