Metal is made up of crystals of different metals. Each crystal has an invisible coating of another metal.
Over time, this coating wears away. It then allows the other metals of the crystals to react and join together permanently. If they don’t do this, they rust, oxidize, or tarnish.
This is called corrosion. Corrosion is the most common cause of plant failure worldwide.
Read on to learn some corrosion prevention tips that you can use today!
Understand First the Causes of Corrosion
Corrosion is a frequent problem in industrial equipment and understanding the causes can help in preventing it. The primary cause of corrosion is the reaction of iron and oxygen in the presence of water.
This reaction forms rust. Rust weakens the iron and can lead to the breakdown of equipment. To reduce the likelihood of corrosion, it is important to reduce the presence of all these ingredients. Keep equipment dry and protected from moisture.
Implement Good Maintenance Practices
Having good maintenance practices in place is an important way to prevent corrosion in industrial equipment. Most corrosion begins before major signs of wear become visible.
Grimes, dirt, and other residues slowly accumulate and form protective layers. This allows corrosion to spread in the foundation of the equipment.
Some possible prevention methods include regularly scheduled maintenance. Use oil and lubricants to protect exposed metal surfaces. Use coatings to protect the metal from the elements.
Good water management techniques and proper storage of materials can help keep equipment from becoming damp and wet. All exposed or vulnerable parts should be regularly inspected and treated for corrosion.
This will extend the lifespan of the equipment. Implementing regular maintenance practices is key for corrosion prevention in industrial equipment.
Utilize Protective Coating and Industrial Paint
The best practice to prevent corrosion is to apply a durable, chemical-resistant coating to the surface of the equipment. This coating will prevent water and other corrosive substances from penetrating the surface.
Adding a layer of industrial paint seals the coating and provides a decorative, finished look. Painting industrial equipment will protect it from extreme weather and harsh chemicals.
Find powder coating services to ensure the effectiveness of corrosion prevention. This will help your equipment last for many years.
Educate Your Employees on Corrosion Prevention
Educating employees on environmental conditions will encourage corrosion. This includes:
- humidity monitoring
- temperature checking
- preventive measures
Encourage employees to regularly clean the equipment. Inspect it regularly for signs of corrosion. Make sure your employees know the importance of lubricating any moving parts and sealing any areas exposed to the elements.
Remind them to inspect the electrical wiring for any signs of corrosion, which includes:
- discoloration
- cracking
- pitting
Proper education can ensure the longevity of your industrial equipment.
Start Corrosion Prevention Now
Corrosion prevention is an essential part of any industrial process. Utilizing these corrosion prevention tips can help to protect your equipment and increase its life span.
Implementing the necessary steps to ensure proper protection will pay dividends in the long run. Don’t let corrosion disrepair your valuable investments; start protecting them today!
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