Tools, Plant & Equipment Hire
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PROTECTING YOUR METAL TOOLS FROM CORROSION Metal tools are used for a wide variety of tasks, including construction, automotive repair, machining, gardening and industrial manufacturing. They are used in a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to food processing. Metal tools have high personal use: knives, scissors, and pliers are common metal tools used in everyday life. They are esential for a variety of reasons: their durability, strength, precision and more. As most metals however, metal tools are prone to corrosion. Corrosion is a natural process that occurs when metals react with their environment. Over time, exposure to moisture, oxygen, and other elements can cause metal tools to rust, tarnish, or deteriorate. Rust and corrosion are the silent enemies of your tools. Often caused by exposure to moisture, oxygen, and other corrosive elements, they can occur almost anywhere, including in seemingly dry storage spaces. Here are some common factors that contribute to corrosion:
• Moisture: Water, even in small
amounts, can accelerate corrosion. It acts as a catalyst, allowing oxygen to reach the metal surface more easily.
Rust and corrosion are the silent enemies of your tools. Often caused by exposure to moisture, oxygen, and other corrosive elements, they can occur almost anywhere, including in seemingly dry storage spaces.
to prevent the buildup of corrosive substances. Lubrication: Apply oil to moving parts to reduce friction and maintain optimal performance. Protective coatings: Apply a corrosion protection coating to create a barrier between tools and corrosive elements, ensuring their longevity. Patented VpCI® (Vapor Phase Corrosion Inhibitor) coatings from Cortec® Corporation protect a multitude of metal products. Spraying or dipping metal parts with VpCI® provides fast and economical protection for exterior and interior surfaces.
• Oxygen: Oxygen in the air reacts
with metals, forming oxides that can weaken the metal’s structure.
• Acids and salts: Acids and salts in
the environment can speed up the corrosion process. These substances can create an acidic environment that is particularly corrosive to certain metals.
• Electrochemical reactions: When
two different metals come into contact in the presence of an electrolyte (like salt water), a galvanic reaction can occur. This can cause one metal to corrode more rapidly than the other.
• Temperature: Higher temperatures can increase the rate of corrosion.
To protect your tools, it is recommended to implement a regular maintenance routine that includes: Thorough cleaning: remove dirt, dust, and moisture from your tools
18 Construction UK Magazine - January 2025
VpCI® technology is an innovative, environmentally safe, cost-effective option for corrosion protection. Cortec® products protect with a thin, monomolecular protective barrier. The barrier re-heals, selfreplenishes, and can be combined with other functional properties for added protective capabilities. VpCI® forms a physical bond on the metal surface creating a barrier layer against aggressive ions. VpCI technology has many advantages. It does not require the special removal of a coating or greasy rust preventative. This reduces labor time and hazardous waste disposal fees from having to clean off traditional petroleum-based rust preventatives. VpCI® inhibitors protect multiple metal types and work in multiple phases—liquid, vapor, and interface—so they can be used to inhibit corrosion on metal surfaces below and above the fluid level in water treatment or oil and gas applications. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your valuable tools and minimize the costly effects of rust and corrosion. To prevent corrosion, it’s important to keep tools clean, dry, and protected from exposure to corrosive elements.