Dezincification and stress corrosion cracking

Copper, brass and bronze are modern materials that have a proven track record over many centuries. Thanks to excellent processing properties, such as machining and welding, brass enjoys a privileged position.

In very rare cases, brass building parts which are in constant contact with water, demonstrate a certain type of corrosion which can lead to damage in extreme cases. The affected spot changes colour to copper red and almost completely fails to show any inherent stability. This corrosion is also called dezincification and is therefore attributable to selective corrosion. For this purpose, Wieland offers special dezincification brass alloys.

Stress corrosion cracking is another corrosion type. Compared to other causes of damage this type is exceptional because it occurs unexpectedly and without any noticeable signs. From a subjective view it occurs often, however statistics show that its occurrence is relatively rare compared to other causes of damage. Apart from brass, numerous other alloys may also be affected, such as aluminium, lead, magnesium, nickel and titanium alloys. Low-alloyed steel and plastics are also susceptible to stress corrosion cracking.