Water washing to combat corrosion

Visakhapatnam: Forming of corrosion is common phenomenon on INS Kurusura Submarine Museum as it is directly exposed to sea waters in Visakhapatnam. To control this, Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA), which is responsible for maintenance of the first of its kind INS Kurusura Submarine Museum in the Asia, has taken some important measures.

But, are they up to the mark? Though it is true that structures, buildings and ships in saline environment are prone to marine corrosion. More responsibility lies on authorities to maintain Submarine Museum safely as it has got historical importance besides being a must-visit destination of Visakhapatnam. “Though we paint the Submarine Museum, corrosion is occurring more frequently than before. So, a decision was made to water wash it twice in a week.

This method might be useful. For the same, we have called for the tenders,” said V Chandraih, VUDA Chief Engineer. However, when spoke to the experts, they expressed their doubts over the method being adopted by the VUDA authorities.

“Frequent water washing could help remove salts, but with this coating of paint gets lost at faster rate. Besides soon after water wash air dryers must be used instead of leaving it open to dry,” said a professor of Mechanical department in Andhra University. According to him, applying a coat of paint should be done at regular intervals, if the authorities want to go for water wash method. Another senior professor of Metallurgy department in Andhra University,

said: “Water washing is not a viable solution. Despite being a costly affair, there are advanced methods to combat marine corrosion.” The professor said that if the VUDA authorities take interest to seek suggestions from him on the matter, he would like to give his views and comments.”