Selecting a Proper “Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor”

Three options are generally used in industry for protection of metal parts and auto components, from corrosion: “Oil & Grease”, “VCI Paper” and “VCI Poly Material”. There are advantages and disadvantages of each method of rust and corrosion protection.

Sealrust VCI® Anti-Corrosive Poly Packaging Material manufactured by Modi Poly is meant for Industrial Use only and not intended for contact with food stuff.

While selecting “Proper Corrosion Inhibitor” for protection of metal surface against corrosion and rust, and for proper packaging system and effective results, several factors should be considered, some of which are as under:

Nature of Material and Surface to be protected:

Whether metal parts are small or large? Whether object is made out of ferrous or non-ferrous metal or both?

It is advisable to use such “VCI Packaging Material” which protects both ferrous as well as non-ferrous metal surface. Sealrust VCI® Polyethene Products work in multi-metal environment. For optimum efficiency of “VCI Formulation”, Sealrust VCI® should be as near to metal surface as possible.

Methods of Handling:

Whether manual or machine handling? What is the scope of acceptance of fingerprint impressions on the metal parts?

“Fingerprint impressions” are the biggest source of corrosion of the metal surface. Hence, direct touching of metal components should be avoided. For proper protection of metal parts and components, packing personnel should wear hand gloves.

Type of Protection Needed:

Whether protection required during processing and manufacturing? Or during storage, transportation, and shipping?

Various options are available for the protection of metal components from corrosion and rust. Application of “oil or grease” is the conventional method of protection and is widely used in industry. However, it is useful only for short-term protection. Sealrust VCI® Poly Packaging Material provides long-term protection for storage, transportation, and shipping.

Packaging Environment and Packaging System:

What are the storage, transportation and shipping conditions – surrounding temperature, humidity, presence of salt, sulphur in the atmosphere?

In adverse surroundings with a high level of humidity, high temperature, and salty atmosphere, the rate of corrosion is very high. It is, therefore, suggested to use Sealrust VCI® Packaging Material for proper protection of metal surface. Use of “VCI liner” in cartons, as a “secondary packaging medium”, will give added advantage for better protection against corrosion.

Period and Duration of Effectiveness:

Whether protection from corrosion and rust is for short-term or long-term: one week to eight weeks, six months to two years, or more?

“Duration of protection” is the most important factor to be kept in mind while taking a decision regarding the “nature and type of corrosion protection material to be used,” in view of the cost associated with the decision. For very short duration of 2 weeks to 4 weeks, “application of oil or grease” may be sufficient. For non-critical products, “application of anti-rust material by brush or spray” may serve the purpose. However, for long-term protection, one should use “paper or polythene” having the property of “Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor” (VCI).

Method of application of “VCI Products”:

Whether “VCI application” is by dipping, spraying, brushing, or packing in paper or poly bags and wrappers?

For short-term protection and non-critical metal components, “VCI Material” can be used by dipping or brushing the metal objects. For long-term and effective protection, it is advisable to use “VCI Plastic Material.” For “tubular metal products” like jumbo coils, the best option is to use “Stretch Cling Film” or “Wrapper Having VCI Properties.”

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