Literally speaking, rustproofing is the process of reducing the rate of which objects composed of iron or steel rust. Though the term “rustproofing” sounds like it should stop rust altogether, corrosion is an inevitable process in the life of iron or steel and can only be prevented with continued rustproofing measures. Though rustproofing is a common byword in the automobile industry, most industries have to deal with rustproofing in one way or another.
- Rust costs Canadians almost $300 million per year in damages, including machinery that has to be repaired, sold at a lower grade, or discarded altogether. Rust can occur because of several factors, all of which need to be considered when deciding on a rustproofing plan for your enterprise.
- Local Climate – Wet or icy climates can increase oxidation, so it is important to take into consideration all locations at which a vehicle or piece of machinery or equipment will be used. “Rust Traps” – Many machines have nooks and crannies that collect moisture (and thus, rust) much more quickly than the rest of the machine’s surface. In creating a rustproofing plan, it is important to note these and pay them special attention, as they could be early warning indicators of rust to come. Metal Composition and Thickness – When combined, some materials can actually accelerate corrosion. For example, aluminum combined with steel can cause electrolytic corrosion in the steel at a much faster rate than it would normally corrode.
Total Lubricants Canada can help you in your battle against rust, may it be for industrial applications or for cars, trucks or all sort of equipment.
- Current Rustproofing Process – When choosing a new rustproofing procedure, it is important to consider which rustproofing measures have already been taken with that vehicle, piece of machinery or equipment in the past thus making sure compatibility is not an issue. Ask yourself: How long do I want to keep my vehicle or piece of equipment? Should I go with permanent or annual treatments? What are the best treatments for my car?
Choices! Choices! Choices!
- Permanent treatments: For new or rust free vehicles. Steel penetration is minimal, hence the rust free condition. It is a barrier made with wax and/or asphalt, plus additives, that contains solvent to keep it viscous until applied. Upon application, the technician must cover every surface carefully since these products do not “creep” or spread after application. And once the solvent evaporates, it should form a semi-hard coating that remains flexible. Total Lubricants Canada products are made with superior grades of waxes and asphalt and stay flexible even in very cold weather but dry to the touch. Total permanent rust proofing treatments will last 5 to 10 years when applied properly. Undercarriage is usually treated with asphalt base product that also acts as a sound proofing coating. The rest of the vehicle is coated with a wax base product.
- Annual treatments: For new, rust free or lightly rust vehicles. Steel penetration is important and a key element with annual treatments. Annual rust proofing will not reverse the damages made by rust but a good product should stop or significantly slowed the corrosion process. Basically made of oil (the carrier) in which additives (the real rustproofing agents), wax/solvent, jellifying agent and aromas are added. It can be an oil, a wax/gel product or a simple gel of various viscosity. Oil base products are washed out quickly while wax gels and simple gels are good for 12 to 24 months. The same product is usually used for the complete car.
Rustproofing can be a complicated process, and that process is only compounded by the plethora of products on the market which claim that they can rustproof metal surfaces. Application by a reliable technician is also very important. Be aware of “cutthroat” rust proofing treatment prices! It often means a lower grade product (less solid matter) or a poorly applied treatment where “cutting corners” is the secret to low prices! At Total Lubricants Canada, we chose to manufacture the highest quality products to help you protect your investment or help you increased your customer satisfaction. Contact us today to find your rust-free solution.
