SERVICE MANUAL & I.C.A. FOR THE 7000 AMPHIBIOUS FLOATS
Revision D Page 21 of 102 P/N 1004646 Doc. No. W7001-24-01
1.3 CORROSION
Corrosion is the process by which metals are
turned into oxides.
It is a natural and
ultimately unavoidable chemical reaction
that is accelerated by dissimilar metals in
contact with each other, and enclosed spaces
and contaminants like dirt and exhaust
deposits that hold moisture against the metal.
If that moisture is salt water or fresh water that
is polluted, it conducts the electrolytes better
and the process of corroding is faster.
Most aircraft and most floats are made out of
aluminum due to its strength to weight ratio, and
its ability to withstand fatigue and remain field
repairable.
Steel is used for strength in hardware and
landing gear parts, and these are often areas
where these dissimilar metals cause corrosion.
Areas where moisture and dirt mix and stay wet
against metal are common sites of oxidation.
Float strut attach points, water rudders, and skin
joints are examples of areas where this occurs.
CORROSION HOT SPOTS
-
DISSIMILAR METAL CONTACT
LIKE LANDING GEAR, FLOAT
ATTACH POINTS AND OTHERS.
- ENCLOSED SPACES THAT STAY
MOIST LIKE LANDING GEAR
FLOAT INTERIORS, SKIN LAP-
JOINTS, AND OTHERS.
- CONTAMINATES ON THE
METAL LIKE DIRT, SALT, ENGINE
EXHAUST AND OLD OR
OTHERWISE COMPRISED GREASE