Emergency Response Hotline 888.327.9664
Time takes its toll on all things, including metal.
Unfortunately, corrosion can have disastrous consequences. In fact, a corroded pipe led to a widespread oil spill that affected beaches and wildlife in 2015.
It’s important to keep metal machines and appliances corrosion free. But how are we supposed to employ corrosion prevention on costly metals?
Keep yourself, your workers and the environment safe with these easy tricks.
Corrosion results from iron’s contact with acidic elements; it also occurs when metals bend or crack from pressure and weight.
There are four easy ways to prevent or reduce corrosion, but the best way depends on your situation.
From those who have recently suffered a natural disaster to individuals contemplating opening a new business, these tips will help you avoid future disasters.
Not all metal rusts. If it is possible, changing the material of the machinery, foundation or item may be a way to avoid future corrosion.
This method is ideal for those who are contemplating purchasing items or building.
Some materials that are corrosion-resistant include:
Galvanized steel is also a viable option, although it will rust eventually.
Water is one of the worst culprits when corrosion occurs. Those who live in rainy locations or have recently suffered from a flood should take extra precautions to avoid moisture buildup around costly metals.
Corrosion and other hazards occur as a result of this moisture, which is why it’s vital individuals thoroughly dry buildings and items after floods.
To avoid moisture, keep machines and appliances away from areas where they may be exposed to rain, sea spray, etc.
Drying agents or desiccant dryers may also provide a means to keep machinery dry.
There are a number of coatings that are beneficial in protecting costly metals from corrosion.
Sacrificial coatings protect the material beneath them. There are two basic kinds.
Cathodic coats create a thin armor of metal that is likely to oxidize. Galvanized steel utilizes this concept. Anodic coats create a protective shell of corrosion-resistant metal, which keeps the corrosive metal inside from encountering elements that encourage corrosion.
Many coatings are environmentally friendly.
Finally, the last way to avoid corrosion is to reduce the metal’s exposure to harmful elements or situations that would exacerbate corrosion issues. For instance, a machine might be re-designed to avoid moisture buildup.
A more complex way to reduce exposure is to change the environment surrounding the metal.
Reducing exposure may also involve a business continuity plan in case of a natural disaster or another emergency. Personnel, for instance, might move machinery and appliances to reduce the likelihood of exposure if there is a flood threat.
No one can know when an emergency will strike, but planning for the future does give some control over how devastating its effects may be.
Unfortunately, even employing methods like corrosion prevention may not be enough. But that doesn’t mean you have to face all the challenges alone.
Before or after a disaster strikes, contact Unlimited Restoration, Inc. We have the machinery and professionals available to ensure you receive the help you need.
From structural damage to weatherproofing, we’ll find a solution that’s right for you. Planning is the first step toward prevention.
