The formation of rust on metals is typical when the metals stay exposed to water or oxygen for a while. This can be quite a problem during transit or storage of metal components. It is possible to prevent rusting by applying rust preventive oils over the metal components. These prevent moisture in the atmosphere from coming in contact with the metal surface.
The rust preventive oils find widespread application in preventing metals from getting corroded. Depending on the type of oil, the protection period may vary from a few months to a couple of years. One can broadly classify these oils into two types: drying type and non-drying type. The drying type offers long-term protection, while short-term protection requires the non-drying type of oil.
Drying type of rust preventive oils
- Rust preventive oils are either solvent-based or water-based. The drying-type oils are based on solvents.
- As the name suggests, these oils have quick-drying properties.
- Once the oil is applied, it would evaporate quickly. Upon evaporation, it would create a dry and tough film over the metal surface.
- To remove the dry film, one would have to wipe the desired areas with diesel or kerosene.
- This type of rust preventive oils find application in the long-term storage of metal components.
- Drying rust preventive oils is particularly useful in storing spare parts of automobiles, such as cylinder blocks and gears.
Non-drying type of rust preventive oils
- The non-drying type of rust preventive oils comprise rust inhibitors and film-forming ingredients.
- When applied to the metal surface, the oil would create a thin protective film that would be soft and transparent. This film holds excellent water displacement properties.
- Removing the film is simple. One can either use a degreasing machine or wipe the surface with a cloth.
- There are multiple ways to apply non-drying rust preventive oils, such as brushing, dipping, and spraying. However, dipping seems to be the most effective so far, and it is advisable to use this method to obtain the best results.
- This type of oil ensures reliable protection for the short term.
- Non-drying type rust preventive oils are especially useful in protecting the components of various machines. These include back-axle assemblies, crankshafts, cylinder heads, tools, machined parts, etc.
- One of the benefits of these oils is that they are compatible with lubricating oils. This makes it even suitable for use in machine parts.
Why is rust prevention necessary?
The formation of rust on any metal component can undoubtedly prove to be an issue. Rusted parts can render machines and other commodities unsalable. Rusted equipment may fail to function correctly and consume more power, resulting in higher operating costs. The rust preventive oil manufacturers in Mumbai, India protect against corrosion and therefore extend the lifespan of those components. While storing components in humid conditions or during construction in a rainy season, businesses use industry-grade rust-preventive oils to protect the components. Rust-preventive oils play an essential role across various industries.