In metallic equipment, such as heavy-duty machinery in general, it is very common to encounter rust, especially when the material is not coated with paint. Rust is simply the oxidation of metal, responsible for enormous losses across various market niches. But why not use techniques to eliminate this problem? One of the most effective methods involves the use of rust inhibitors.
Understanding the Process
Corrosion is a chemical term defined as the process of total, partial, surface, or structural destruction of a specific material, usually metallic, caused by an oxidation-reduction reaction with its surrounding environment. Simply put, corrosion is the result of the contact between oxygen atoms in the air and the surface of the metallic material.
This phenomenon is very present in our society, which can be observed all around us: in car bodies, metal chairs, gates, industries, and various other types of metallic surfaces. Corrosion represents significant economic losses as it directly shortens the lifespan of materials.
Certain factors can accelerate the process. For instance, the presence of carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and other acidic substances in the air. Saline environments, such as near the sea, also contribute to the corrosion process by increasing electrical conductivity. It is common to underestimate the risk corrosion poses to materials.
However, it is a phenomenon with much larger implications, including potential risks to human safety. As such, constant research is required to refine and reduce the costs of corrosion control techniques, especially through the development of advanced rust inhibitors.
The Risks of Corrosion in Machinery
In 2007, after a corrosion issue in transport pipelines, a British oil company lost over $8.5 billion. The deterioration of the pipes caused an oil spill in the largest exploration field in North America, resulting in consequences such as multimillion-dollar fines, expenses for containing the spill, cleaning the bay, and a loss of market value for the company.
In Australia, the collapse of the Tasman Bridge in Hobart, Tasmania, in 1975 serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of corrosion. While primarily attributed to a collision with a ship, investigations revealed that the bridge’s steel reinforcements had significant corrosion damage, which weakened its structural integrity. This highlights the critical need for proactive corrosion management in infrastructure and heavy-duty machinery to prevent such catastrophic failures.
Adopting Measures to Prevent Corrosion
First and foremost, the designer responsible for the heavy-duty machinery must analyse the type of environment to which the mechanism will be exposed, as well as the duration of exposure.
- Protective Coating: specific paints act as protection by creating a barrier against elements present in the air. When applied in this way, they are considered rust inhibitors. Heavy-duty machinery coatings can also be temporary, using oils or emulsions. In these cases, subsequent cleaning is an important step in the process.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials: choosing less corrosive materials, such as stainless alloys, is highly recommended. Elements such as nickel and chromium in their composition help create thin protective layers against corrosion.
- Avoiding Contact with Water: whenever possible, minimise the contact of metal with water. When this is not feasible, consider installing drainage systems to prevent the accumulation of moisture.
Effective Strategies to Combat Corrosion in Heavy-Duty Machinery
There are multiple approaches to tackling steel corrosion and ensuring the durability of heavy-duty machinery. Analysing the location and environmental conditions where the metal will be applied is a fundamental step in selecting the most suitable corrosion prevention method. Factors such as exposure to moisture, chemical contaminants, and temperature fluctuations all play a role in the corrosion process and should be carefully evaluated.
Among the various options available, the use of rust inhibitors is a standout solution. These products offer both flexibility and reliability in protecting metallic surfaces, making them a go-to choice for industries that depend on heavy-duty machinery. Regular inspections, coupled with preventive maintenance, further enhance the effectiveness of these solutions, reducing the risk of costly repairs and downtime.
By implementing the right strategies, businesses can not only prolong the lifespan of their equipment but also improve overall operational efficiency in even the harshest conditions.
Does Your Equipment Require Corrosion Protection Solutions?
Australian Inhibitor specialises in providing advanced corrosion protection services tailored to industrial equipment, ensuring longevity, optimal performance, and pristine condition, even in challenging environments.
Contact us today via our website or call us on +61 3 9768 2322 to fortify your metal assets and embrace unwavering protection against rust and corrosion.