Rust Preventive Oils (H3)
Protective oils that form a durable film on metal surfaces to prevent rust and corrosion during storage or transportation. Ideal for tools, machinery, and spare parts stored in humid or coastal environments.
Types: (H4)
- Solvent-Based: Temporary protection during storage or shipping, on precision parts, tools, and firearms where an oily residue is undesirable
- Oil-Based: Long-term storage of heavy machinery, industrial equipment, and automotive components; internal protection of engines and gearboxes.
- Water-Based: Short-term indoor storage or in-process protection between manufacturing stages, particularly where safety and environmental regulations are a concern.
- Water-Displacing: Marine, aerospace, and offshore applications, or after water rinses/alkaline cleaning processes where moisture needs to be rapidly removed.
- Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI): Protecting internal systems of machinery, pipelines, or components during long-term storage in enclosed spaces.
Key Features: (H4)
- Protective Film Formation: All types work by creating a physical or chemical barrier (film) that prevents contact between the metal and corrosive elements like moisture, oxygen, and salt.
- Corrosion Inhibition: They contain specialized corrosion inhibitor additives that neutralize rust-causing elements.
- Moisture Displacement: Many formulations, especially the water-displacing type, actively penetrate the surface to displace any existing moisture.
- Variable Protection Duration: Depending on the type and film thickness, protection can range from a few days or weeks (short-term, in-process) to several months or years (long-term storage/export).
- Application Versatility: They can be applied using various methods, including dipping, spraying, or brushing, to suit different part sizes and production processes.
- Removability: Most rust preventive oil films can be easily removed using solvents, degreasers, or hot alkaline cleaners when the component is ready for assembly or further processing.
- Compatibility: Many modern formulations are designed to be compatible with other industrial lubricants (like engine or hydraulic oils), so removal may not always be necessary.