What is the most common type of corrosion associated with Ground Support Equipment (GSE)?

The most common type of corrosion associated with Ground Support Equipment (GSE) is pitting corrosion. This type of corrosion is characterized by the formation of small pits or cavities on the surface of metals and is particularly prevalent in environments where GSE is subjected to moisture, salt, and contaminants. The localized nature of pitting corrosion can make it difficult to detect early on, as it may not affect the overall surface of the equipment but can lead to significant structural damage over time.

Pitting corrosion usually occurs on metals that have protective oxide layers, like aluminum and stainless steel, when those layers are compromised. The presence of chlorides, often found in environments such as coastal operations or where de-icing salts are used, can exacerbate the onset of pitting corrosion. This makes it a serious concern for the longevity and reliability of Ground Support Equipment, as even small pits can lead to failure if not addressed.

In contrast, other types of corrosion such as uniform corrosion and galvanic corrosion, while they also pose risks, do not correlate as directly with the operational environments and materials commonly used in GSE. Uniform corrosion typically affects an entire surface evenly and is often more predictable, while galvanic corrosion is caused by electrochemical reactions between dissimilar metals. Cre