About Seller: Preventing Corrosion: Product Selection Considerations
Corrosion, rust, oxidation, or similar issues have been persistent challenges throughout history. Iron oxides, commonly known as rust, result from the combination of iron, oxygen, and water, producing a red/orange color. Since the use of iron began, rust has remained a significant problem. Various attempts have been made over time to control rust through corrosion preventative compounds, such as animal fats and coal/oil tars, which acted as barriers to prevent water contact with metal. Advancements in technology have led to improved barrier products like Cosmoline, a well-known corrosion preventative. With a plethora of products available today, it is essential to conduct thorough research to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs.
When selecting a corrosion preventative product, it is crucial to consider factors such as the type of metal to be protected, environmental conditions (e.g., exposure to acid fumes or saltwater spray, temperature extremes), desired protection duration, preferred solvent base (water, oil, or solvent), and type of coating/film (hard, soft, flexible, self-healing). Terms like "water displacing" are commonly used in product descriptions, but the more relevant term to look for is "hydrophobic," meaning the product repels water. Hydrophobic compounds are crucial for driving off water to prevent corrosion. Specific gravity (S.G.) is another important factor to consider when choosing a product, with a S.G. greater than 1.0 indicating a sinking substance and a S.G. less than 1.0 indicating a floating substance. Most products on the market have a specific gravity of 0.8/0.9, so it is advisable to seek out products with a specific gravity of +1 for optimal corrosion protection.