The application of microelectronic computer control systems in field locations has
developed rapidly over the last 15 years. These distributed control systems (DCS) are far
more prone to corrosion damage than earlier control systems. Of particular concern are
locations where sulfur species may be present such as hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, or
elemental sulfur. Failures of critical components may occur in as little as three months in
locations where humidity, temperature, and corrosive gasses are not adequately
controlled. Temporary relief may be obtained by the use of vapor phase corrosion
inhibitor (VCI) powders and sprays. A more permanent solution is the installation and
maintenance of an adequate air handling system that removes pollutants and controls
humidity and temperature. This paper reports a number of different failures that occurred
in one plant including general corrosion of circuit boards and a history module and
corrosion fatigue of copper conductor wires on an electronics circuit board. Field data on
different solutions to the problem are presented.