Whether it’s ferrous or non-ferrous metals, both will develop a reddish-brown appearance over time without proper packaging. Significantly more if the storage area is near the sea, or a place with much moisture in the air, the metal changes colour and deteriorates over time. Rust is detrimental for metal objects as it cuts down on longevity and reduces durability.
What is Rust?
Rust is a form of mental deterioration called iron oxide, Fe203. Rust occurs when oxygen and iron react in the presence of moisture in the air or water. Rust is not always the typical reddish-brown or burnt orange colour as expected. Rust can also develop in an underwater environment when iron comes into contact with chloride. This rust turns out green which is usually seen with steel used in underwater pillars. This entire process of rust is a combustion reaction, very similar to fire. However, the only difference is that the metal does not end up in flames but ends up rusting. The presence of salt in the water can also speed up the reaction, causing the metal to rust faster.
Metals that Form Rust
Technically, any item with iron construction, or an alloy containing iron, can rust. Steel will rust too as it is an alloy containing iron. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, making it more durable than simple steel variants.
How to Prevent Rust with VCI?
VCI stands for volatile corrosion inhibitor. It has other names like Vapor phase corrosion Inhibitor or vapour corrosion inhibitor as well. VCI simplifies corrosion protection and is excellent for keeping both ferrous and non-ferrous metals free from all that rust.
How VCI Works?
Corrosion or rust is the primary reason why metal parts, iron, and steel substances in certain electronics, automobiles, cell phones, and computers begin to deteriorate and damage with time. Not only does it look unappealing, but it also does a lot more damage than just that. Products with a label that indicates corrosion protection ensure a specific level of purity before manufacturers assemble the product or retailers sell the product to consumers.
Rust and corrosion also occur with certain chemicals. But even preventing the use of chemicals, moisture in the air is enough to cause rust over time. Many solutions protect against corrosion, such as using paint, grease, and oil, which might not be environmentally friendly. VCI protects metal substances from rust and corrosion while working on a molecular level.
VCI creates an invisible molecular layer that protects every metal surface from oxidation and rusting. When VCI comes in contact with the object, a thin layer of protection is formed and adheres to all metal substances and objects. Whether it’s those little nooks and crevices, holes, or more, VCI can eliminate and prevent rust without any hassle. Considering that metal parts come in all shapes and sizes with different weights and objects and items, VCI technology offers a wide range of forms, including film, foam, liquids, powders, and emitters.
How to Remove Rust
Strong Acids Strong acids such as hydrochloric, phosphoric, and sulfuric have the potential to eliminate rust quickly. While these chemicals are useful and will dissolve rust, they might also dissolve the paint, finish and part of the metal—strict safety precautions required with handling to prevent health and safety risks when using these chemicals. Some acid-based solutions also come in gel form but have to be careful if left on the metal for too long; it can go as far as dissolving the metal and causing pitting. While mineral acids work by cleaning off the rust, the layer of metal beneath becomes more prone to rusting due to its reactive state. Prevent rusting by sealing it or neutralizing it with VCI products.
Weak Acids Weak acids are less toxic and are almost as effective as strong acid-based solutions. They typically come in gel and bath solutions and do not produce a weak reaction. Each acid works differently as per the metal type, but they get the job done. Tannic, citric, and oxalic acid are weak acids and naturally occur in nuts, fruits, veggies and medicine.Weak acids dissolve rust, similar to acid-based solutions, but the process takes longer, is mild, and less volatile. It reduces the risk of metal flash rusting, and these acids are relatively safer than strong acid-based solutions.
Acid-Free Water-Based Solutions Among the solutions, acid-free water-based solutions tend to be the safest rust removal methods out there. They are environmentally friendly and safe for humans to use. Water-based solutions are a safer option for metal surfaces, and are typically fume-free, easy to dispose of and safer. These water-based solutions comprise unique formulas that eliminate rust without scrubbing as it starts to work within minutes of application. The reusable solution helps eliminate the need for blasting and grinding while maintaining metal compositions, plating and coatings. This solution is reusable as it can de-rust approximately 300lbs. of steel or about 20 lbs of dry rust, it is non-acidic / non-caustic, showing that it has a neutral pH, hence requiring no special handling or gloves—with its non-toxic and biodegradable properties, making it environmentally friendly as well as readily disposable. Therefore, making this product suitable for many businesses across a wide range of products.
Rust Removing Gel Rust removing gel is a water-based and fast-acting rust removing solution. These rust removing gel are easy-to-use and require minimal effort. By brushing it onto the metal surfaces, it will start to remove light rust within 15 minutes. When rust is completely dissolved, wipe or rinse the gel away, and the part is ready for shipment. To protect the metal against corrosion, store the item with VCI packaging paper, film or bag. It works across most metal surfaces and does not harm paint or rubber. It is competitively priced as compared to its counterparts and a safe alternative to using harsh chemicals. Similar to the Water-based solutions, they are non-hazardous, non-toxic and biodegradable. They are safe on multi-surfaces and are non-hazardous, making them highly applicable across many industries and products. With no special handling required, it will take minimal time or resources on training. They are typically used for construction equipment, tools and surfaces that cannot be immersed into rust remover liquids.
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Stream Peak Joined: April 13th, 2021 Articles Posted: 1
