Chemical changes in the metal parts of the hydraulic system can cause corrosion. This usually stems from two main sources: exposure to corrosive conditions or galvanic corrosion caused by contact between different active metals.
Environmental corrosion
Most corrosion is caused by environmental factors such as humidity, chemicals, fertilizers or the marine environment. These factors lead to electrochemical oxidation of the metal, resulting in rust and structural degradation. It is important to protect all metal parts of the hydraulic system and to minimize corrosive conditions.
Galvanic corrosion
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two different metals are in physical or electrical contact with each other and immersed in a common electrolyte. In galvanic couples, the more reactive metals corrode at an accelerated rate, while the more expensive metals corrode at a slower rate. The steps that can be taken to minimize galvanic corrosion include avoiding contact between the active metals, removing the electrolyte from the equation, or by using a sacrificial anode.
learn more about Hazard of corrosion of hydraulic pipes.