High alloy stainless steels, such as superduplex and 6%Mo, have been extensively used for
seawater cooling systems and in reverse osmosis desalination plants. From time to time corrosion
has been observed at flange faces that is not attributable to poor quality material or excessively
severe operating conditions. Over the last fifteen years there have been studies looking at
corrosion of flanged joints. Some have investigated flange materials, while others have looked at
different gasket materials. The present paper reviews the published data and presents some field
experience from the authors’ company. These are combined to present some recommendations on
combinations to be avoided and the best choice of suitable gaskets for systems operating at
different pressures.