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Oxidation on stainless steel chain

We have oxidation problems on a 316 stainless steel chain mounted at the Belgian coast.
De chain is mounted on aluminum rod and there is no isolation between the chain and the aluminum rods.
The chain links are welded with TIG without additional material (melted together), the chain is barrel deburred after welding, there is no contamination of steel during deburring because the manufacturer only produces stainless steel. The chain isn't pickled or passivated after welding.
What could be the reason of this oxidation?

Marc Demeulemeester
R&D + Quality engineer - Ingelmunster, Belgium
April 22, 2010

Dear Marc,

Chlorides and sulpher in the air are the main reasons for corrosion of SS in outdoor applications.
The minimum you should do is passivate your SS. Electropolishing SS is better for outdoor applications.

Kind regards,

Marc.

Marc Quaghebeur
- Brugge, Belgium, Europe
April 26, 2010

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