Cladding is primarily used for corrosion protection over which material?

Cladding is predominantly utilized for corrosion protection over carbon steel due to its relative susceptibility to various forms of corrosion, including rusting in humid and corrosive environments. The process involves applying a protective layer that acts as a barrier, helping to enhance the steel's durability and extending its lifespan in harsh conditions.

Carbon steel is often less expensive and more abundant than other metals, making it a common base material in construction and manufacturing. By applying a corrosion-resistant cladding layer, the structural integrity of the carbon steel can be maintained long-term, reducing maintenance costs and preventing failures associated with corrosion damage.

In contrast, while materials like stainless steel, Monel, and aluminum already possess some level of corrosion resistance in their native forms, they may not require cladding for protection in many applications. For instance, stainless steel is designed to withstand corrosion due to the presence of chromium, while Monel is a nickel-copper alloy that is also resistant to corrosion in various environments. Aluminum, though prone to oxidation, develops a protective oxide layer that prevents further corrosion. These properties make cladding less necessary for these materials compared to carbon steel.