Which of the following represents severe corrosion on painted pipe?

The characterization of severe corrosion on painted pipe is primarily determined by the extent of rusting over the surface area. When evaluating the definition of severe corrosion, a range of 33% to 50% surface area covered with rust indicates that there is a significant amount of deterioration. At this level, the integrity of the pipe can be compromised, posing safety risks.

The presence of rust is critical in assessing the condition of the piping. A coverage of 33% to 50% signifies not only a concerning level of corrosion but also indicates that the protective paint has failed to provide adequate shielding against environmental factors. This failure can lead to further degradation of the pipe material if not addressed promptly, making it essential to identify and remediate such conditions to ensure the safety and efficacy of the gas piping system.

In contrast, less than 3% surface area with rust would typically be considered negligible and may not warrant immediate concern. Similarly, 3% to 33% surface area with rust might indicate a need for monitoring but does not reach the severity level that is explicitly defined in the safety standards. The option of having no observable rust implies that the condition is stable and that the protective measures remain effective. Thus, understanding the thresholds of corrosion is vital for safety