Dave Leppo Posted December 18, 2009 Share Posted December 18, 2009 I read a few posts that mention using copper hardware on a knife. I'm also aware that affixing two dissimilar metals like copper and steel together mechanically can create a galvanic situation where one will cause the other to corrode. (I think this would not be the case if they were welded or soldered together, but I Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThomasPowers Posted December 18, 2009 Share Posted December 18, 2009 Having it dry pretty much slows down any effect till it becomes negligible. So what would be a destroyed dive knife often stored wet in 10 years probably wouldn't be noticeable out here in the desert in 80 years. I think having them better bonded together probably makes it worse too! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pkrankow Posted December 18, 2009 Share Posted December 18, 2009 Galvanic and Corrosion Compatibility Dissimilar Metal Corrosion - Engineers Edge Yes it forms a battery, even if soldered or brazed. Every piece of dissimilar metal that is connected together participates, but only as long as there is an electrolyte present. Yes, in some cases air can act as an electrolyte too. I am not a knifemaker, and the antique knives I have handled have been kept very nicely. There are blades that are centuries old using dissimilar metal in the furniture that are still in very good condition. Phil Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sask Mark Posted December 18, 2009 Share Posted December 18, 2009 Just as a side comment to this process, galvanic cells are available for rebar reinforcing. They are essentially sacrificial cells that are wired to the rebar cages. This prevents the rebar from corroding. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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