The influence of the external environment of the strength and durability of building metal structures and load-bearing elements of construction equipment

Abstract

The article considers the influence of corrosive and aggressive factors of the external environment, namely different types of soils, on the strength and durability of building metal structures and load-bearing metal elements of construction equipment. It is noted that the complex action of temperature fluctuations, humidity, chemically active components and dynamic loads causes a gradual decrease in the strength of metals, which results in the development of corrosion fatigue cracks. The patterns of the corrosion rate under the condition of contact of metal elements with different types of soils, differing in composition, structure, humidity and degree of aeration, were studied. In the process of research, a complex of experimental methods was used, which include: gravimetric, potentiometric and microscopic analysis, which allowed to assess the corrosion rate, electrochemical activity of the environment, as well as the nature of damage to metal samples. Based on the results obtained, a classification of soil types was carried out according to the level of their corrosion activity, which made it possible to establish the most aggressive types (swamp, peat, silt and clay soils), as well as soils with minimal corrosion impact (sandy and limestone). The results obtained indicate that the correct and timely assessment of the value of the corrosion activity of soils is one of the main factors determining the durability of construction metal structures and metal elements of construction equipment. Establishing the level of aggressiveness of the soil environment allows not only to predict the rate of corrosion processes, but also to make a reasonable choice of structural materials, methods of their protection and types of coating, which will ensure long-term resistance to the influence of the external environment. Thus, the use of a systematic approach to assessing the corrosion activity of soils is an important element of engineering design and technical maintenance of construction sites and construction equipment. Which, in turn, ensures increased reliability, reduced risks of emergencies, and a long-term extension of the safe operation of building metal structures and construction equipment.