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[quote]QUOTE: Originally posted by Modelcar ...What's the big deal from so many of thinking painting a steel bridge helps deteriorate the steel in it...I suppose it is possible if not done properly but isn't there a correct way to paint steel that gives the material some protection for a period of time....Let alone the difference painting will enhance it's appearance. I realize cost is a big factor....and perhaps in many cases it can NOT be afforded by the railroad. But to simply say painting deteriorates material under it seems a bit much.....As I've mentioned before what about the steel beams under interstate bridges....Most are painted, even many with various colors. [/quote] Actually there is evidence that steel structures exposed to high cycllic loading (heavy trains, perhaps?) and the elements are vulnerable to corrosion fatigue where tiny cracks develop, admit moisture, and continue to corrode beneath the surface of the "protective layer" of rust. Structures where the grain of the metals are exposed, such as riveted structures, are especially succeptable to this accelerated form of corrosion. A maintenance paint program keeps these tiny cracks and endgrains filled (since you can't grind a bridge like you grind a rail head) http://www.corrosion-doctors.org/InternetResources/NPL.htm#Stress
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