What Are the Effective Techniques for Preventing Corrosion?

Posted by Midsun IKM on March 8th, 2024

Corrosion is a natural process that degrades metal surfaces, causing them to lose strength and stability with time. This process is a major concern in a variety of industries, particularly transportation, construction, and engineering. Thus, preventing corrosion is critical for industries and individuals to ensure the integrity and longevity of their assets. Listed below are some of the most effective corrosion prevention methods, including RTV Silicone Coating Service:

• Galvanization

The process of applying a zinc coating to metal surfaces is called galvanization. The zinc coating serves as a sacrificial anode, corroding in place of the metal underneath and shielding it from rust and other forms of corrosion.

• Anodizing

Anodizing is the process of forming a protective oxide layer on the surface of metal. This process strengthens the metal's resistance to corrosion and increases its durability.

• Alloying

Alloying is the process of combining other metals with a base metal to improve its properties, including corrosion resistance. For example, adding chromium to steel results in stainless steel, which is extremely resistant to rust and other forms of corrosion.

• Temporary Barrier Protection

It is a traditional rust protection method that has been identified as one of the most effective methods for protecting parts from rust due to its flexibility in application, excellent confluence with upstream and downstream requirements, and low cost.

• Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor

Protecting metals from rust without using oils or physical coatings paved the way for the development of VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor). Metals can be wrapped or covered in VCI paper or films and remain corrosion-free.

• Coating

One of the most common methods of corrosion prevention, such as rust on electrical towers, is to apply coatings to metal surfaces. The coatings form a barrier between the metal and the environment, preventing corrosion from spreading. Coatings can be made of paint, plastic, or zinc.

• RTV Silicone Coating

RTV silicone, also known as room-temperature vulcanization, is a water-resistant, adhesive, and water-resistant sealant that cures immediately when exposed to air, unlike water-based sealants like latex. RTV Silicone High Voltage Insulator Coating is an excellent method that prevents corrosive elements from penetrating the silicone barrier and damaging the metal surface of electrical towers. 

• Electroplating

Electroplating is another popular method of corrosion prevention. Using an electrical process, metal surfaces are coated with a layer of another metal, such as nickel or chrome. This forms a barrier, preventing the underlying metal from corroding. 

• Cathodic protection

Cathodic protection is a technique that uses an electrical current to prevent corrosion. The current is applied to the metal surface, forming a protective layer that keeps it from corroding. This method is widely used to protect offshore structures, pipelines, and storage tanks.

• Inhibitors

Corrosion inhibitors are chemical substances applied to metal surfaces or the environment to slow corrosion rates. They come in organic and inorganic forms and are used for storage, transportation, and industrial processes. Examples include rust-preventive oils, waxes, coatings, and VCIs, which provide temporary corrosion protection.

• Temporary Barrier Defense

Rust-preventive oils and waxes are a traditional method for protecting parts from rust due to their flexibility, excellent compatibility with upstream and downstream requirements, and low cost. These coatings create a transient shield over metal surfaces to prevent corrosion while the materials are being manufactured, shipped, stored, transported, and distributed. After treatment, the material can be easily removed.

Conclusion

By now, we hope you know how to avoid corrosion on electrical assets with these methods. While each method has advantages and disadvantages, the best method for corrosion prevention is determined by the type of metal, the environment in which it is used, and the level of protection required. Regardless of the method used, it is critical to take precautions to prevent corrosion, as it can result in significant costs and disruptions for many industries.

If you are searching for the best anti-corrosion solutions for your metal structure, Midsun IKM is there for you. We are based in Vienna, Austria, and are the international business development division of Midsun Group Inc., a North American manufacturer of animal mitigation covers & silicone coatings.