Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Behavior of Stainless Steels for Locks, Dams, and Hydroelectric Plant Applications. Repair, Evaluation, Maintenance, and Rehabilitation Research Program

Abstract : Carbon steels and low-alloy carbon steels have been the primary source for materials used to construct locks, dams, and hydroelectric plant structures. Some components for these facilities have also been fabricated from 300-series austenitic stainless steels and the martensitic grades of 400-series stainless steels. Advanced technology alloys that have better corrosion resistance and higher strength than alloys developed earlier can be advantageous for water resource projects. This report presents typical mechanical property data, briefly discusses corrosion behavior, and provides general guidelines regarding the use of stainless steels for locks, dams, and hydroelectric plant applications. Carefully selected and properly specified stainless steels are viable options for construction and can result in reduced maintenance costs. Two case studies for rollers and seals for tractor type dam gates are presented to demonstrate the advantages of using stainless steels for Civil Works projects.