Mild steel is the most common structural material and is used in a wide range of environments. However, there are few systematic data on the effects of operating parameters on corrosion behavior in immersed conditions. To obtain such data, a suitable test method is required in which parameters affecting the corrosion process are carefully controlled.

Dissolution of borosilicate glass vessels in water at temperatures above 60°C was shown to lower significantly the corrosion rate of steel in distilled water. The method of aerating the solution was also important. A new test apparatus is described in which the above problems have been overcome and other parameters are capable of more precise control.

Some data obtained with the new test cell are given to validate the design. The data demonstrate the effect of dissolved oxygen on the corrosion of steel in distilled and chloride-containing water at temperatures up to 90°C.