Corrosion Rate Calculator
Calculate corrosion rate (mpy & mm/y) using the weight loss method.
About the Corrosion Rate Calculation
This calculator uses the standard weight loss method (often referenced in ASTM G1) to determine the average corrosion rate of a metal specimen. This is one of the most reliable and widely used methods in corrosion engineering to assess material performance in specific environments.
The Formula
The corrosion rate is calculated using the following equation:
Where:
- CR: Corrosion Rate
- K: A constant determining the units of the result (3.45 × 106 for mpy, 8.76 × 104 for mm/y)
- W: Weight loss in grams (Initial Weight – Final Weight)
- A: Surface area in cm²
- T: Exposure time in hours
- D: Density of the material in g/cm³
Understanding the Results
MPY (Mils Per Year): This is the standard Imperial unit used in the oil, gas, and chemical industries. One mil is one thousandth of an inch (0.001″).
mm/y (Millimeters Per Year): This is the standard Metric unit for corrosion rates.
Typical Corrosion Rate Categories
While acceptable rates vary by industry and application, a general guide for carbon steel follows:
- < 1 mpy: Outstanding (No concern)
- 1 – 5 mpy: Good (Suitable for most applications)
- 5 – 10 mpy: Fair (May require monitoring)
- > 10 mpy: Poor (Action usually required)