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What is Vapour Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) Film

Vapour Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) solutions are indispensable guardians for metal components. VCI, offered by Australian Inhibitor, stands at the forefront of corrosion protection, utilising a variety of specialised packaging materials. These inhibitors become an integral part of the final products, creating a molecular shield against corrosion.

 

How Vapour Corrosion Inhibitors Work: A Molecular Defence

VCI’s unique approach involves three key actions at a molecular level. Firstly, it passivates the electron flow between the anode and cathode areas on the metal surface, preventing corrosion triggers. Secondly, it forms a physical hydrophobic layer, acting as a moisture barrier and preventing direct contact between metal and water. Lastly, VCI regulates the pH value of the electrolyte, ensuring a balanced environment.

One stand out feature of Australian Inhibitor’s VCI range is its volatility. VCI inhibitors don’t need direct contact to perform. They migrate to hidden recesses and complex shapes, forming an unbroken molecular barrier. This volatility ensures continuous protection without the inhibitors touching the components directly.

 

What is Vapour Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) Film?

VCI Film, or Vapour Corrosion Inhibitor Film, is a specialised packaging material designed to protect metal components and products from corrosion. It incorporates anti-corrosive properties through Vapour Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs). These inhibitors release corrosion-preventing vapours that form a protective layer on metal surfaces, preventing contact with moisture and other corrosive elements.

VCI Films are widely used in industries where metal components need to be stored or transported for extended periods. The film provides an effective and convenient solution for preserving the quality and integrity of metal items by preventing corrosion. VCI Films are versatile and can be customised for various applications, including packaging for machinery, automotive parts, electronic components, and more.

The key advantage of VCI Film is its ability to offer long-term protection without the need for direct contact with the metal components. The volatile corrosion inhibitors released by the film create a protective atmosphere, even reaching hidden or complex shapes that are challenging to access with other forms of corrosion protection.

Overall, VCI Film is a crucial component in corrosion protection strategies, providing a reliable and efficient way to safeguard metal assets during storage, transit, and in challenging environmental conditions.

 

Applications of VCI Film

VCI (Vapour Corrosion Inhibitor) Film finds a broad range of applications across various industries where the protection of metal components from corrosion is crucial. Some of the common applications include:

Metal Packaging:
VCI Film is extensively used for packaging metal components and products, providing a protective barrier against corrosion during storage and transportation. It is commonly used for the shipping and storage of metal goods, as they often experience fluctuations in pressure, temperature, and humidity during the transport process.

Automotive & Aerospace Industry:
VCI Film protects automotive and aerospace parts and components, including engine parts, fasteners, and other metal elements. It helps prevent corrosion in vehicles during shipping and storage.

Machinery and Equipment:
VCI Film is widely employed in packaging machinery and equipment, especially those used in heavy industries. The film can be applied to protect semi-finished and finished metal products from corrosion, extending the lifespan of the assets.

Military and Defence:
VCI products are utilised in the military to protect weapons, ammunition, and other metal equipment. However, the VCI products must meet stringent military-specified (Mil-spec) requirements. Australian Inhibitor’s FERROFOIL military corrosion inhibitors carry a NATO stock number proving the quality of the product we offer. It should be noted that FERROFOIL is a different product from VCI Film.

 

Tips for using VCI Film

Proper application starts with ensuring that the metal components to be protected are clean and dry before packaging. Handling parts with gloves is advisable to prevent the transfer of corrosion-inducing fingerprints. It’s crucial not to pack hot parts, and, where possible, the ambient temperature should match the part’s temperature to avoid condensation inside the packaging.

VCI Film can be applied as a barrier by fully encapsulating the equipment, providing superior protection from moisture and oxygen. Monitoring humidity levels is also recommended to assess the film’s effectiveness over time, and the employment of a product such as a desiccant can be used to help provide moisture and humidity control. In situations where extended protection is required, vacuum or heat shrink processes can be employed to create a controlled environment. These tips collectively contribute to the optimal use of VCI Film, ensuring the long-term preservation of metal assets.

 

Does your equipment require corrosion prevention?

VCI Film is a great line of defence against the relentless forces of corrosion and moisture. At Australian Inhibitor, our range of VCI products offers unparalleled protection, ensuring your assets endure longer during shipping transport and on shelves.

Contact us today via our website or call us on +613 9768 2322, to fortify your metal assets and embrace unwavering protection against rust and corrosion.