Corrosion is a natural process that has a variety of negative effects on metal. Even the smallest form of corrosion requires repairs and maintenance. The worldwide annual loss due to corrosion is an huge waste and should be minimized. It is estimated that 50 % of metallic corrosion loss can be prevented by using suitable protection methods.
Metals are used in a variety of applications: vehicles, plains, trains, building structures, work tools, … When a metal used in any of these applications suffers from corrosion, it loses its strength causing a potential hazardous situation. Although all metals have a tendency to corrode, many types of corrosion can be prevented.
Want to learn more about the process behind corrosion? Read the article Corrosion explained.
1. Choose the right metal
The easiest way to prevent corrosion is the use of a corrosion resistant metal type, such as stainless steel or aluminium. The constant innovations and developments of new nickel-, steel- and titanium-alloys lead to new levels of corrosion protection. Depending on the specific environments, these metals can be used to reduce the need for additional corrosion protection.
2. Corrosion passivators
Corrosion passivators are added to a metal to prevent corrosion. They react with the surrounding chemical environment to form a protective layer over the metal which acts as a barrier against corrosion. Corrosion passivated steels/metals are used in petroleum refining, chemical production, and water treatment works.
Some examples of corrosion passivation:
- Stainless steel is ferrous (Fe) enriched with a corrosion passivator like chromium. The chromium will form an protective oxide layer that seals the iron from further attacks.
- High silicon cast iron forms a protective film of silica that protects the iron against corrosion.
3. Organic film formers
Organic film formers produce an organic, paint-like layer on the surface of the metal to protect it against corrosion. The metal surface attracts the molecules of the protective material that forms an impervious barrier against oxygen and water, the most important initiators of corrosion.
There are many different organic film forming anti-corrosion products on the market, but they all have this film forming principle in common.
Q8 Ravel film formers
The Q8 Ravel range offers a wide variety of organic film forming fluids (solvent- or oil- based) to protect metals against corrosion. Each type is developed and tested for specific working conditions and applications. Whether you need an organic film former with excellent dewatering capacities, a high flash point, a long term protection or a cost-effective solution, Q8Oils has the right corrosion prevention fluid for your requirements.
Discover more about the advantages of the Q8 Ravel products in the article Q8 Ravel range presented.
