When you mention the words “rust season” to someone in the metalworking industry, you may get a dry smile. Their immediate answer is typically summer, when high heat and humidity create the perfect conditions for corrosion. Unfortunately, that answer is usually quickly followed by reasons why their metals can corrode the rest of the year. Factors such as rainy seasons, factory locations near the ocean, shipping to other regions, or even extended plant shutdowns can put metals into an “open season” for corrosion.
Understanding Corrosion: Overcoming the Rust Season and Its Causes
Instead of thinking of a rust season, being aware that corrosive atmospheres and conditions happen in any season can help avoid corrosion issues. Also, it is critical to understand what causes corrosion, for people need to prevent corrosion. Corrosion is a chemical reaction that takes place when metals react with oxygen and an electrolyte, usually water. Heat accelerates chemical reactions, and corrosion is a chemical process. Scientists go by the guideline that chemicals typically double their reaction rate for every 10°C (18°F) increase in temperature. So, inside a hot shipping container or on a hot day, the corrosion process could be twice as fast. Other environmental factors that can accelerate rust and corrosion are salts, acids, and other contaminants.
Preserving Metal Goods in Any Season: Effective Rust Prevention Solutions for Global Shipping and Storage
In today’s global marketplace, companies that produce, ship, store, and assemble metal items may transport their goods to different regions. AAs a result, the metals will experience changes in humidity and temperature while receiving protection. The good news is there are many products available to metal goods producers to protect metals in shipping and storage. The tools, including rust preventative coatings and oils, VCI kraft paper, and VCI film packaging, offer ease of use and provide options for short-term and long-term protection in challenging conditions. Also, corrosion and packaging engineers can evaluate production facilities and existing protection methods to recommend the best corrosion inhibitor packaging system for your metals. Contact ZERUST® today to design a packaging system ideal for your metal products in any season.
