For many of us our first introduction to corrosion was likely on battery terminals of a childhood toy or game. However, the formation of rust on iron, tarnish on silver, and the blue-green patina that develops on copper are all examples of corrosion.
Corrosion is commonly defined as the degradation of metals, often by chemical action. That degradation occurs when external forces, including water or contamination, attack the integrity of a metallic object or machine. The origin of corrode comes from Latin corrodere which literally means “to gnaw to pieces,” and which today relates to wearing away gradually, by degrees. According to the World Corrosion Organization, corrosion-induced costs amount to 3% to 4% of the gross domestic product of all industrialized nations.
Normally, the circulation of oil during a machine’s operation helps to make sure additives spread throughout internal system surfaces. This movement of fluid encourages proper protection, but once equipment is shut down and stored, standard lubricants often fail to protect dry surfaces from corrosion. That’s why lubricants need corrosion inhibitors.
Situations that require corrosion protection include:
Corrosion inhibitors are added to lubricants to protect against the leading causes of corrosion: humidity, water, contamination, acid, and high temperatures. This type of additive reduces or eliminates internal rust and corrosion by neutralizing acids and forming a chemical protective barrier to repel moisture from metal surfaces.
Corrosion inhibitors come in many kinds. One reason for the wide spectrum is because the chemistry that protects one metal is often ineffective in protecting another metal in the same circumstance. Types of corrosion inhibitors include:
Different corrosion inhibitors also can vary in their length of protection, from 1 week (called “in process”) to 1-3 months to 6 months or a year. These ranges can differ depending on whether the lubricant with the corrosion inhibitors is used indoors or outdoors.
Rust preventatives (RPs) are a specific type of corrosion inhibitor that can be applied in order to protect against oxidation. There are many types to choose from, but don’t assume all RPs are the same. The best pick will depend on a variety of factors: application, material you are protecting, storage conditions, desired film, and length of protection. Knowing all these aspects will help you choose the right preventive agent to get the results your specification requires.
Copper and alloys corrode more slowly than steel or iron. Why is this one top of the list of importance? Because copper corrosion prevention is important in many systems due to copper and bronze fittings, valves, and piping. Make sure proper yellow metal corrosion inhibitors are present in any fluids coming in contact with brass or copper.
One that not many people talk about but is highly common is Bi-Metallic Rust, sometimes called galvanic corrosion. This occurs when dissimilar metals, coated and uncoated, are resting/layered on top of each other and there is scale or corrosion on one part.
Another example is how non-stainless steel, non-aluminum, cast iron, or low-grade metal parts can get damaged more easily by salt, which creates corrosion or rust.
In this test, a grease-filled steel bearing is subjected to distilled water or salt water, depending on the bearing’s expected environmental exposure. The bearing is run for one week under alternating dynamic and static conditions. At the end of the test period, the bearing raceway is inspected and given a rating from 0 (no corrosion) to 5 (severe corrosion where >10% of surface is corroded).
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Corrosion inhibitors are a common type of water treatment additive used to prevent corrosion in closed loop systems. These additives work by forming a protective film on the metal surfaces of the system, preventing corrosion, and extending the life of the system. Common types of corrosion inhibitors include zinc, molybdate, and nitrite.
Find out more about the X-PO10 Commercial Inhibitor
Scaling occurs when mineral deposits build up on the surface of the system, reducing flow and efficiency. De-scaling agents are water treatment additives used to prevent or remove these deposits. These additives work by breaking down the mineral deposits and preventing them from forming again. Common types of de-scaling agents include phosphoric acid, citric acid, and hydrochloric acid.
Find out more about the X-PO20 De-Scaling Agent
Sludge is a build-up of organic matter and other contaminants that can accumulate in the closed loop system, leading to reduced efficiency and equipment failure. De-sludgers are water treatment additives that work by breaking down and removing sludge from the system. These additives help to improve the efficiency of the system and extend the life of the equipment.
Find out more about the X-PO40 Heavy Duty De-sludger
In colder climates, closed loop systems can be at risk of freezing, which can cause damage to the system. Anti-freeze glycol is an additive that is added to the water to lower its freezing point, making it less likely to freeze. It is important to use the correct concentration of anti-freeze glycol, as too much can reduce the efficiency of the system.
Find out more about the ready-mixed X-PO50 Anti-Freeze Glycol or the concentrated X-PO55 Anti-Freeze Glycol.
Non-potable biocides are chemicals used to control the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria and algae. In closed loop water systems, microorganisms can multiply and form biofilms that can lead to several issues such as corrosion, fouling, and reduced heat transfer efficiency. Non-potable biocides are used to control the growth of these microorganisms and prevent these issues from occurring. It’s important to note that non-potable biocides should be used in accordance with local regulations and industry standards, as they can have potential health and environmental impacts if not used properly.
Find out more about the X-PO80 Non-Potable Biocide.
The VEXO X-PO range is a collection of system inhibitors, treatment agents, and disinfectants designed specifically to meet the rigorous energy and water-saving protocols, system protection, and additive safety requirements of modern building industry standards. The range provides a comprehensive selection of additives to meet all the hygiene and system protection needs of any size heating, chilling, or condenser water system. The aim of the VEXO X-PO range is to reduce energy and water wastage, making it the most cost-effective option available.
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