Corrosion is an electrochemical reaction that occurs when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen, causing the metal to oxidize and deteriorate. If you want your structure or object to retain its appearance and structural integrity, you will need to protect it from corrosion. Improve your item’s corrosion resistance with a few proven strategies.

A Guide to Maximizing Corrosion Resistance

1. Use a Protective Plating

A protective plating acts as a barrier to protect the metal from exposure to oxygen or moisture, which prevents corrosion. Two of the most common types of plating are nickel and chrome. When the finish is created with either type of plating, it provides other benefits in addition to corrosion protection.

It improves the metal’s appearance and durability, which makes plating ideal for anything from machine parts to farm equipment. When applied by a professional, a coating will last for many years, even in harsh conditions.

2. Keep It Clean

Dust and dirt will accelerate the corrosion process. Dust absorbs moisture and holds it close to the metal surface, while dirt will scratch the surface and expose the equipment’s underlayment to oxygen. This causes rusting since moisture is a trigger in the oxidation process. 

Store smaller objects in a controlled environment, such as tools inside a toolbox or spare parts in a clean warehouse, to manage the dust. Clean metal equipment and tools regularly with white vinegar on a microfiber cloth.

3. Dehumidify the Environment

Moisture plays a key role in corrosion, so keep as much moisture as possible out of the air. Whether it’s a storage facility or a shop where you use your equipment, make sure it’s not a humid environment. A dehumidifier will pull the excess moisture out of the air. A small portable machine will be adequate for drying out the air in a small workshop, but a larger facility will benefit from a dehumidifier installed with the central HVAC. 

Porter-Guertin Co. offers a full array of metal finishing services for projects of all sizes in Cincinnati, OH. They use the latest cutting-edge technological processes for corrosion resistance, polishing, and metal part repair. Their experts will help you find the right plating or finishing solution for your application and environment. See their full list of services online and call (513) 241-7663 to request an estimate.