Institute News
On Monday 30th September 2024 John Fletcher (ICorr past president 2014-2016) will stand down as the ICorr Surface Treatment Training Scheme Manager (STSM) and hand over this role to Dr Jane Lomas, who has been the Deputy since the role was formalised in 2019.
John’s direct involvement with the ICorr Coating Inspector training schemes started when he joined the ICorr Professional Development Training and Certification (PDTC) committee in 2007, when the scheme was managed by David Griffiths. However, the informal involvement predates 2007 when he was working at Elcometer as Technical Support Manager and had regular contact with Argyll and Ruanne who delivered the courses in Rotherham, particularly regarding new coating inspection instrumentation and tests. He joined Elcometer in April 1982, and was soon asked by President Bill Cox to join the ICorr North-West Branch to represent Elcometer as the owner of the company was busy travelling the world to develop the export market. This involvement ultimately led to him joining PDTC and to become President of ICorr.
Prior to joining Elcometer, John worked for 13 years at Philips where he was responsible for developing and implementing metal coating processes for both semiconductors and insulators for the development and manufacture of microwave components for radar systems. At the time, John did not realise that this coating related work would lead to an extensive involvement later with ICorr.
John’s technical role at Elcometer involved BSI and ISO standards work and through his informal support of the Elcometer membership of ASTM. He became a regular attendee of ASTM D01 meetings becoming Chair of D01 and finally a Director of ASTM for a three-year term which ended in 2019 and resulted in an award of lifetime excellence from the ASTM D01 committee
in 2019.
John remains incredibly grateful for the tremendous support provided by his employer, Elcometer, for the work entailed in managing the ICorr Surface Treatment Training Schemes up to his retirement from Elcometer in December 2019, and it is his belief that they saw the long-term benefit of his relationship with ICorr to Elcometer’s core business. The STSM function is, of course, critical to the delivery of quality ICorr training courses with many sub-duties. In preparation for his Elcometer retirement, John agreed to a contract with ICorr to continue to manage the Surface Treatment Training Scheme on a one-day per week basis.
Earlier in 2010 John had become the Chair of PDTC and the involvement with Argyll Ruane grew, with David Griffiths and later with Nigel Peterson-White and Richard Green, who all delivered the classroom courses. Also in 2010, ICorr signed its first agreement with Corrodere to deliver online Coating Inspector courses. At the time John had expected that all ICorr Coating Inspector courses would be delivered online thereafter but that has proved not to be the case as there are still a substantial number of students who prefer the classroom environment, despite the additional accommodation and travel costs.
In 2013 the Argyll Ruane operation was sold to the Institute of Mechanical Engineers who are based in London. It is true to say that they were primarily interested in the NDT/NDE training courses offered by ARL and backed by BiNDT, but IMechE was soon keen to create a new agreement between IMechE A R (IAR) and ICorr. Under John’s leadership, the activity at IAR in Sheffield has developed significantly since the days when ICorr courses were delivered in temporary buildings on the outskirts of Rotherham. They now have a’state of the art’ training centre developed from a former call-centre building with rooms dedicated to ICorr course delivery and ICorr examinations.
IAR now offers ICorr courses through their regional partners in various countries, including China, where TUV just celebrated their 7th year offering ICorr courses and their 1,000 certificate just issued via the ICorr scheme.
For their part, Corrodere has extended the courses they can deliver online to include the Level 2 course for Insulation, Pipeline and Hot Dip Galvanising Inspectors and approximately 50% of the applications for ICorr certificate come from candidates who are based overseas.
In conclusion, John would like to express his sincere gratitude to both IAR and Corrodere for their continued support in developing and increasing the numbers of Coating Inspectors who are trained and certified by ICorr.
John will remain on ICorr’s Council in 2025, if elected at the AGM later this year and will be available to support Jane in her new role as Surface Treatment Training Scheme Manager whenever required. The Institute wishes to express its sincere thanks to John for more than 40 years’ invaluable service to the Institute in various ways and we all wish him good health and happiness in his pending retirement.
John Fletcher – STSM Scheme Manager.
Institute News
On 5th July 2024, a total of 42 corporate guests and ICorr representatives gathered at the London Oval, home of Surrey County Cricket Club, (founded in Kennington in 1845), keen to watch Surrey play Middlesex in a T20 match from the Corinthian Roof Terrace, a fabulous spot over the bowler’s arm. The afternoon was a little changeable, and of course, just as the game was about to start the heavens really opened, the covers came on and it didn’t stop all evening!
Whilst we didn’t see any cricket, the guests had a great opportunity to catch up, some who had been involved in the institute for over 40 years and some who are relative newcomers.
It was particularly nice to have four of our YICorr guests – Anthony Setiadi, Caroline Allanach, Owen Stapleton, and Stephen Shapcott who had come through the YEP programme that has now been running for over 10 years. https://www.icorr.org/young-engineer-training-programme/
Three ICorr past Presidents – Trevor Osborne, Sarah Vasey and Bill Hedges also joined us for this very special event alongside current President Stephen Tate and Vice President Yunnan Gao.
The Institute of Corrosion Corporate Members event was a huge success and greatly enjoyed by all, although we didn’t see any cricket due to the famous British weather!
Proceedings continued thereafter at a great little sports pub in Kennington,
the Derby Arms (pictured below).
We were also very pleased to welcome a new member to our Corporate Members group: Corrodere Home of Train the Painter—Corrodere Academy, who are one of our key training partners.
Many thanks to AkzoNobel, Bilfinger, BP, Carboline, Flexitallic, Jotun and Oceaneering for their generous and much valued corporate support to ICorr to date and most of all to David Mobbs for organising it all.
The Institute of Corrosion will be staging a similar networking event next year for its Corporate Members. If you are interested in joining as a Corporate Member, our highest grade of company membership, then do please contact David Mobbs for further information and benefits at: david.mobbs@c-i-m.co.uk
Participants at Institute of Corrosion – Corporate Event 2024.
Above: Views From the
Oval Rooftop Terrace.
The Derby
Arms, Kennington.
Institute News
By Chris Atkins B Eng Hons, PhD, CEng FICE FICorr
The end of May saw the passing of
Ken Dykes.
It is difficult to describe the profound impact some people have on the world. The UK is at the cutting edge of concrete repair and has moved the goalposts with regards to the cathodic protection of steel in concrete. A significant portion of this progress is down to Ken. Many people will have first encountered Ken when he was giving a presentation, explaining complex electrochemical stuff with scouse wit and humour (a byproduct of being a lifelong Everton fan). This hid the fact that he actually knew what he was talking about. If the main aim of a technical presentation is to make the audience remember what they were
told and who told them, he certainly achieved this.
He supported the concrete repair and corrosion industry for as long as I’ve known him. There are three main trade associations in concrete repair, the Corrosion Prevention Association, the Concrete Repair Association and the Sprayed Concrete Association. In a feat unlikely to be repeated he was appointed chair of all three over the years. Ken helped establish the Structural Concrete Alliance umbrella organisation and also chaired the ICorr North-West Branch.
He undertook these roles with an infectious enthusiasm that meant very
few meetings dragged.
At his funeral the commonest memory shared was about someone who cared about people and told jokes that sometimes made you cringe a bit, and sometimes made opening emails from him a nervy experience. As a career goal, seeing the fun in what you do and caring about people probably can’t be beaten. Personally, he supported my wife and I more than he realised. Jessica, and I am honoured to call him a friend.
Some people end up changing the way things get done in the world. Ken Dykes was one of those forces of nature who moved the goalposts. Thank you for all you’ve given us Ken.
Submitted by Chris Atkins on behalf on the North-West Branch.
Ken Dykes, former ICorr North-West Branch Chair and of CPA, CRA and SPA.
Institute News
By Izabela Gajewska
AMEI MICorr, ICorr NW Branch Vice Chair and YICorr Committee Member
Unveiling the YEP 2024 Case Study
The long-awaited reveal of the Young Engineer Programme (YEP) 2024-2025 case study took place on 30th May, during the fifth session of the programme at the Wood Thilsted office in London. The meeting’s content remained as topical as ever, with Dr. Roger Francis, Director at RF Materials, presenting an intriguing and challenging case study to the six participating groups. This presentation provided plenty of food for thought ahead of their final presentations in November 2024.
Dr. Francis, the esteemed recipient of the 2023 Paul McIntyre Award from the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) for his long-term work in standards and education, has been a corrosion engineer for over 45 years. His extensive experience spans marine corrosion, desalination, sour oil and gas corrosion, mineral processing, and the chemical and process industries.
A Glimpse into the 2024 Case Study
The 2024 YEP case study is based around a series of failures at a power station in Australia, which experienced multiple stainless-steel dump condenser head failures. The young engineers, whose specialties include mechanical, structural, corrosion and materials engineering, welding, and more, were put to the test as they delved into these failures. The fossil-fuelled power station in question operated on a two-shifting schedule, necessitating shutdowns every 16 hours. This standard practice involved quenching high-pressure superheated steam with high-purity water in a series of dump condensers, so the water could be reused as boiler feed water upon restart.
Rising to the Challenge
The YEP 2024-2025 committee members and organisers, Izabela Gajewska and Danny Burkle, were genuinely impressed with the participants and their early approach when divided into their teams. “It is clear that we are going to have an exciting and competitive year, with some great insights and presentations later in November!” said Danny. The initial discussions showcased the engineers’ analytical skills and collaborative spirit, promising a series of insightful findings and innovative solutions.
Enhancing Presentation Skills
In the second part of the meeting, Danny provided valuable tips to improve presentation skills and create effective presentations. This guidance is set to be instrumental as the young engineers prepare to present their findings at the YEP finale in November.
YEP 2024-2025 Lecture 6: Coatings and Linings
The sixth session of the Young Engineer Programme (YEP)
2024-2025, held online via Zoom on 27th May, featured a
highly engaging and insightful lecture on coatings and linings by David Mobbs, Technical Director at Corrosion Integrity Management Ltd.
David, an esteemed practitioner in the field of Corrosion and Protective Coatings, brings nearly 45 years of industry experience, having worked on corrosion and coating failures
worldwide. His vast experience has given him a unique perspective on the best and worst practices within the
Corrosion Control industry.
One of David’s key observations is the shift in workforce dynamics: there are fewer dedicated Corrosion Specialists in engineering roles, an increase in multi-skilled operatives on-site, and a reduction in technical supervision staff among paint manufacturers. David firmly believes that “the training we offer needs to be even better, and specifications need to be extremely robust to narrow down poor workmanship.”
David’s commitment to advancing industry standards is evident through his significant involvement in developing new training programmes for the Institute of Corrosion. As one of the founding members of the Young Engineer Programme, his dedication to nurturing the next generation of engineers is unwavering.
During the two-hour lecture, David provided a comprehensive overview of coatings and linings, highlighting common applications and the intricacies of coating system selection based on the new update of ISO 12944, the industry standard for corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems, originally released in 1998. He covered essential topics such as the qualification of systems, surface preparation, application processes, and adherence to specifications, also delving into potential pitfalls in coating application. His expertise and engaging delivery made the session both informative and memorable, sparking a flurry of questions from the enthusiastic YEP participants. David’s lecture reinforced the importance of rigorous training and robust specifications in achieving excellence in corrosion control.
Looking Forward
As the YEP 2024-2025 progresses, the young engineers will continue to investigate and address the complexities of the case study supported by their mentors, applying their diverse expertise to develop robust solutions. Their journey epitomises the spirit of innovation and collaboration that the Young Engineer Programme aims to foster, ensuring the next generation of engineers is well-equipped to tackle future challenges in the field of Corrosion and Materials Engineering
as well as in Energy Sector.
Stay tuned for updates as these talented young professionals bring their unique perspectives to the forefront, culminating in what promises to be an engaging and competitive finale on 21st November 2024.
Upcoming Event
We are excited to announce that the next session will be held on the 22nd August and will feature the presentation by Andy Czainski, Global Category Manager – Hydrocarbon Fire at Jotun (an ICorr Corporate sponsor), on Corrosion Under Insulation and Fire Protection.
Join the Young ICorr Committee
Young ICorr is currently looking for new committee members and a new chairperson for the 2024-205 session. This is a fantastic opportunity for early career engineers, scientists, and researchers in the field of corrosion to get involved, gain experience, and make valuable connections. If you are interested and need more information, please do not hesitate to contact Izabela or Danny from the Young ICorr Committee at icorryep@gmail.com
Dr. Danny Burkle Delivering His Lecture to Improve Presentation Skills and
Create Effective Presentations.
David Mobbs of Corrosion Integrity Management Ltd.
A Few Slides from David Mobbs Presentation.
Institute News
The joint meeting of the Institute of Corrosion’s 65th Corrosion Science Symposium (CSS) and Electrochem2024 will take place at Manchester Metropolitan University between Wednesday 11th and Friday 13th September ( For further details please see CSS/Electrochem2024).
There is also the annual Shreir Prize for the best student presentation, please contact Julian Wharton, CSD Chair, for any further information J.A.Wharton@soton.ac.uk
Institute News
The branch now has a new invigorated committee which aims to strengthen its links
to the local corrosion community, led by Paul Brooks.
From Left to Right: Ali Morshed (Speaker Subcomm), Jim Glynn (Treasurer), Chiara Sorrentino, Paul Brooks (Chair), Brian Goldie (Secretary External), Ennery Leon (Speaker Subcomm), Alejandra Fernandez-Vinas (Xmas Lunch Subcomm), Anthony Setiadi (Secretary Internal), Ashokan Gopal (Vice Chair).
A series of in-person evening technical presentations are planned to cover the different topics of interest to members, including joint meetings with the London Materials Society (LMS), TWI, and AMPP. It is also the intention to record these talks and post them on the ICorr website, so members everywhere can access them.
The next technical meeting, which is joint one with London Materials Society (LMS) a local society of IOM3, will be held on 10th October, at the usual venue, the Lancaster Hall Hotel, Bayswater, when Ali Morshed will present “Why effective MIC control is still a major challenge in the industry”.
November will see the branch host the final YEP meeting with presentations by the teams of their Case Study conclusions.
London Branch will also be holding their usual Christmas Luncheon at the beginning of December, and details will
be available after the summer holidays. Members
wishing to join the Mailing List or present to London
Branch should contact: Londonchair@icorr.org
Final details of all upcoming Events may be found at:
https://www.icorr.org/events/
