Preserve Nonferrous Metal Materials
Liquid inhibitors, dry coatings, and airtight storage and transport methods will preserve nonferrous metal materials. These products and methods reduce damage from friction, moisture, and humidity.
Nonferrous Metal
The iron content in some metal products will cause rust to form. When iron is exposed to oxygen or moisture, the air and moisture molecules will bond to the iron. Nonferrous metals are often favored building materials, due to their tensile strength. Nonferrous metal products require more maintenance than ferrous metal products.
A manufacturer may use an oil coating or a dry coating product to preserve metal. A manufacturer that does not apply a protective coating to nonferrous products may outline some steps that a consumer can use. The proper use of a liquid inhibitor or a dry spray or dip will prevent visible signs of rust.
Oil And Dry Coat Preservatives
An oil product is a preservative that should be applied frequently. An oil product will lubricate metal surfaces that contain iron. The lubrication will allow the free movement of metal machinery or tools, plus it will prevent air or water from interacting with iron. A preservative oil can be brushed or sprayed onto exposed metal surfaces. An oil product will make metal surfaces glisten. The oil may feel greasy to the touch. This may necessitate the use of gloves when actively operating metal machinery or repairing it.
A dry agent is another type of oil preservative. Unlike a liquid preservative, a dry coat product will not change the appearance of the oil or be messy to work with. Metal products can be dipped into a dry coating product. A dry product can also be sprayed across metal. A dry preservative will provide "invisible" protection. The protective layer will repel water droplets.
Storage And Transport Guidelines
Nonferrous metal products that are going to be stored or transported should be secured inside of an airtight container. Airtight products will prevent nonferrous metal items from coming into contact with moisture or high humidity levels. Some manufacturers may use a powder coating to protect nonferrous metal materials.
Although a powder coating will protect exposed metal, it is often still advisable to use a rust oil or a dry preservative to increase the level of protection that metal surfaces are provided with. Exposure to moisture could eventually wear down a powder coating. Proper storage and transport methods should be used to protect metal products that contain a powder coating.
Contact a local rust preventive oil company, such as Sandburg Oil, to learn more.