Which type of corrosion is typically spread over a wide area?

General corrosion is characterized by a uniform loss of material over a wide area rather than concentrated in specific locations. This type of corrosion occurs evenly across the surface, often due to environmental factors such as exposure to moisture or corrosive chemicals. It results in a gradual decrease in the thickness of the material, making it less likely to lead to sudden failure compared to more localized forms of corrosion. For instance, when steel is exposed to oxygen and water, it can rust uniformly, affecting the entire surface rather than just a particular spot.

Localized corrosion, crevice corrosion, and intergranular corrosion, on the other hand, are more focused and occur in specific areas. Localized corrosion develops in small, discrete spots, while crevice corrosion occurs in confined spaces, such as joints and under deposits. Intergranular corrosion affects the grain boundaries of materials, leading to weakness in those specific regions. In contrast, the uniform nature of general corrosion makes it crucial for inspectors to monitor surfaces consistently to address potential issues early on.