What Is Rouging?

Rouging happens when stainless steel is contaminated and corrosion build up is formed. Rouging is generally identified by a red deposit on the inside of your stainless steel equipment. Usually iron is the main cause of rouging in stainless steel systems, but hydroxide and carbonate from external sources can also lead to rouging.

There are three difference classes of rouging, they are as follows:

Class I: Iron deposits from external sources, usually the Cr/Fe ratio remains unaltered.
Class II: Iron deposits originating on-site due to improperly or un-passivated equipment. The Cr/Fe ratio of the metal surface may be altered.
Class III: Iron oxide (or scale) which forms on surfaces in high temperature steam systems. The Cr/Fe ratio of the protective film is altered.

Preventative maintenance and routine passivation is important in extending the service life of your equipment. Proper care and maintenance will also result in less down time and unexpected service calls.