Corrosion - what it is and how to protect metal from rust
Although many organisations actively work to prevent corrosion, it often occurs sooner or later when metal is exposed to weather, wind or moisture in some form.
At the same time, there are many effective ways to counteract corrosion. With the right preventive measures, products and treatments, it is possible to protect the metal from degradation, thereby significantly extending its lifetime.
This guide explains what corrosion is, why it occurs on metal, how to prevent it and what to do once it has already happened.
What is corrosion?
Corrosion is a natural chemical process where metals break down when they react with their environment - usually through contact with oxygen and moisture.
The terms corrosion and rust are often used as synonyms, because both are the result of a chemical reaction in which a substance reacts with oxygen. But there are some differences:
- Corrosion is the collective term for the degradation of different materials when they react with their environment.
- Rust is a type of corrosion that only occurs on iron and iron-based materials, such as steel. When iron or steel is attacked by moisture – that is, exposed to corrosion – rust is formed.
- In other words, rust is a form of corrosion, but not all corrosion leads to rust.
Why does corrosion occur on metal?
Corrosion occurs when metal reacts with substances in its environment, starting a process where the metal gradually breaks down.
There are several factors that can accelerate corrosion:
- Moisture and water - acts as an electrolyte to speed up the reaction.
- Acid in the air - drives the oxidation process.
- Salt and chemicals - increases the conductivity of the metal and accelerates corrosion.
- Temperature changes - can create condensation and moisture on metal surfaces.
- Damage to the surface - scratches or wear make it easier for moisture to reach the metal.
Understanding the factors that cause corrosion also makes it easier to prevent it. With the right corrosion prevention methods and products, you can reduce the risk of corrosion and rust, and extend the life of the metal.
Common types of corrosion in industry
Corrosion is a major challenge in every industrial plant, causing billions of dollars of damage to industry every year.
The most common types of corrosion in industry are:
- General corrosion
Means that the metal surface degrades relatively evenly over a large area. It often occurs when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen over a long period of time, for example on structures, machine parts or components used outdoors.
- Galvanic corrosion
It occurs when two dissimilar metals are in electrical contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte, such as water or moisture. The less noble metal then starts to degrade faster than the other. This can happen, for example, in structures where different types of metal are combined.
- crevice corrosion
Occurs in confined spaces where liquid or moisture can accumulate, such as in joints, gaskets or under bolts. In these areas, oxygen supply may be limited, creating conditions for localised corrosion.
- Pitting (pitting)
A localised form of corrosion where small but deep pits form in the metal. This type of corrosion can be difficult to detect at an early stage but can cause significant damage as it can quickly weaken the material. - Contact corrosion
Can occur when metal is in contact with other materials that retain moisture or chemicals against the metal surface. This can cause localised corrosion and is common in environments where components are exposed to dirt, liquids or chemical residues.
Corrosion protection - methods to prevent rust
Protecting metal against corrosion is all about choosing the right protection. Tribotec offers a wide range of environmentally friendly corrosion protection products (VCI) and corrosion inhibitors which protects the metal throughout the production chain.
VCI solutions work by creating a protective layer around the metal that prevents oxidation and extends the life of the material.
Our range includes, among others:
- VCI plastic products for all packaging needs
- VCI paper products for all metal components
- VCI emitter for electricity and electronics
- VCI water and oil-based rust protection
- Degreasing, cleaning and rust removal products
Our methods provide effective protection against corrosion whether you need to protect tools, machine components or larger structures in industrial environments.
VCI technology and modern anti-corrosion solutions
Traditional corrosion protection methods often rely on applying a protective layer - such as oil, grease or paint - directly to the metal surface. This can provide some protection, but often requires cleaning or removal before use and can be time and labour intensive.
Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology instead releases anti-corrosion molecules in a closed environment, for example in packaging or around components. These molecules form an invisible protective layer around the metal - even in crevices and pores - without coating the surface with grease or film. The protection works as long as the VCI inhibitors are present, and the metal can be used directly without prior cleaning.
How to choose the right corrosion protection for your application
Organisations working with metals understandably place great importance on corrosion prevention, but choosing the right methods and products can seem like a jungle.
At Tribotec we offer a range of products that help both prevent corrosion and efficiently removes surface rust and oxidation from iron. If you need help choosing the right solution for your application, you are always welcome to contact us!
