1) Does high-manganese steel alloy rust or simply change color ?
"High-manganese steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, meaning it does not rust easily like other types of steel. However, it can change color due to oxidation or surface treatments, but this does not indicate rusting."
2) Is rust another form of oxidation?
"Rust is a specific type of oxidation that occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture, leading to the formation of iron oxides. While oxidation can happen with various metals and may not always be destructive, rusting specifically refers to the corrosion of iron and its alloys."
3) Can oxidation visually appear like rust coloration?
"Yes, oxidation can visually appear similar to rust coloration, as both processes involve the reaction of metals with oxygen. However, rust specifically refers to the oxidation of iron and its alloys, typically resulting in reddish-brown hues, while oxidation of other metals can produce different colors.
In this instance I think what I was looking for was answered succinctly. Though if anyone cares to challenge these responses I've be interested in hearing about it.
I simply wanted to know what I already have observed, with particular reference to high-manganese steel alloy circa 1939 to 1945. With an understanding that such oxidation has greatly diminished in modern times,
relative to tracked vehicles.
Lots of visual examples of such vehicles with tracks oxidized in various colors and conditions:
Such visual accuracy is a part of my hobby that I have recently got back into:
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Many years ago this was occasionally a hotly-contested issue among plastic modellers.