Rust can quickly create a big problem. It ruins the functionality of important machinery, and it can cost your business thousands. Having the knowledge of how to prevent rust effectively can save you money and prevent serious problems.
Listed below is a list of five ways to prevent rust, so you can find one that works best for you.
5 Ways to Prevent Rust
- Use an Alloy
All metals corrode at different rates. This is why alloys, which are made by combining two or more different metals, are rust-resistant.
- Apply Oil on the Metal
Almost all gun owners know the importance of keeping firearms well-oiled, even when they are not in use. Oil not only lubricates metal parts but also allows them to move with less friction. Oiling forms a protective layer on the metal to prevent it from rust. The principle here is pretty simple; with a coating of oil, moisture is unable to react with the iron in the metal and cause rust.
However, there are some downsides to oiling metal to prevent rust. While an oil coating can be an effective way, it is certainly not a perfect one. Oil makes it difficult to grip on an object and can cause parts of a machine to slip. It can also be unpleasant and dirty to work with oil. Last but not least, oiling must be done every once in a while, which is time and energy demanding.
- Paint the Metal
Paints also create a protective layer over metal and prevent moisture from reaching them. There is no doubt that no rust prevention technique can completely stop moisture from getting through, but painting can be a simple and effective way to slow down rust.
- Apply a Dry Coating
For metal components that need to stay clean or provide a solid grip, a rust preventative dry coating is ideal.
- Store Properly
The best way to prevent rust is to keep the object away from moisture. Water reacts with iron to form rust, so an environment with no moisture will not create rust.
For more rust prevention techniques, consult the experts at Lucas Craftsmanship. Call us at (713) 864-2510.