Economics Applied to Structures

Reduction in weight of structures permissible by smaller loss of strength integrity through improved corrosion control stands for direct savings in costs. The reduction of materials cost is the major consideration fabrication cost, including processing and other costs, should also be calculated. 

The trade-off between improvement of corrosion control and reduction of weight should be considered multi-laterally. Some special considerations, such as improvement of notch toughness and other precautions against stress corrosion cracking at low temperatures for cryogenic tanks, ships, and submarine design, are specifically relevant in individual cases of economic evaluation. 

Corrosion control that allows planned elimination or reduction of labor motions or shop operations can reduce costs  

The equipment used during erection of structures and the time of erection is not necessarily reduced simply by reduction of the weight of the handled components. A reduction in weight caused by improved corrosion control may accentuate the aesthetics of the structure and, by its pleasing outline, it may be inductive to a reduction in fabrication and erection costs. 

Use of smaller-sized structural members, due to effective corrosion control, rednces the maintenance costs, e.g. paint and painting time. Simplification and standardization of structnral members, which are conductive to improved corrosion control, also reduce the cost of maintenance and enhance maintainability. Use of corrosion-wise safer steel in structures may also provide improved economy in tension, in bending, in compression, and economy in framing and plating. 

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