Effect of Ethylene Glycol on Corrosion Behavior of 6063 Aluminum Alloy in Valve Cooling System

Effect of ethylene glycol on the corrosion behavior of 6063 aluminum alloy in valve cooling system of converter station was investigated by immersion corrosion test and electrochemical test. The results show that ethylene glycol accelerated the corrosion of 6063 aluminum alloy whether or not it was electrified, and the corrosion of 6063 aluminum alloy was aggravated with the increase of ethylene glycol content. In addition, the corrosion rate was much higher when 10 mA DC current was entered. Furthermore, ethylene glycol was oxidized to glycolic acid, ethane diacid and other corrosive substances, accelerating the corrosion of 6063 aluminum alloy. Therefore, in practical application, the corrosion of 6063 aluminum alloy by ethylene glycol should be considered and the corresponding countermeasures should be taken.