Cleaning and Corrosion Flashcards
Corrosion is one of the greatest enemies of aircraft structures. Left unchecked, it can weaken structural members, compromise system integrity, and lead to catastrophic failures. Every A&P mechanic must be able to identify corrosion types, understand their causes, apply proper treatment methods, and implement preventive measures.
The FAA General exam tests your knowledge of corrosion types (uniform, pitting, galvanic, intergranular, stress, fretting), cleaning methods, chemical treatments, and the proper use of conversion coatings and protective finishes. These flashcards cover the essential corrosion and cleaning concepts.
What You Need to Know
- Types of corrosion: uniform, pitting, galvanic, intergranular, stress, fretting, exfoliation
- Galvanic corrosion: occurs when dissimilar metals are in contact with an electrolyte
- Pitting corrosion: localized, creates small holes, difficult to detect
- Intergranular corrosion: occurs along grain boundaries, common in improperly heat-treated aluminum
- Stress corrosion: results from combined tensile stress and corrosive environment
- Alodine (chromate conversion coating): provides a corrosion-resistant surface and paint base
- Anodizing: electrochemical process that forms a protective oxide layer on aluminum
- Cleaning solvents: aliphatic naphtha, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Stoddard solvent
Why This Topic Appears on FAA Exams
Corrosion control is tested because it is a daily maintenance responsibility. Mechanics must identify corrosion early, treat it correctly, and document the repair. Improper treatment can actually accelerate corrosion or weaken the structure. The exam ensures you can identify corrosion types and know the correct treatment for each.
Sample Flashcards
Tap any card to reveal the answer. These are just a sample — the full deck is available inside the study platform.
What is galvanic corrosion?
What is pitting corrosion?
What is Alodine used for?
What causes intergranular corrosion?
Study Tips
Focus on matching corrosion types to their descriptions and causes — this is the most commonly tested format. Remember the galvanic series: the more active metal corrodes (sacrificial). Learn which chemical treatments are appropriate for aluminum vs. steel, and understand the difference between cleaning, treating, and protecting surfaces.
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Related Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
Uniform surface corrosion is the most common. It appears as a general dulling or etching of the surface and is relatively easy to detect and treat. Pitting corrosion is also very common but more dangerous because it can penetrate deeply with minimal surface evidence.
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