Rust and corrosion are one of the largest causes of mechanical failure, leading to machinery breakdowns, reduced user safety, increased costs and reduced output. There are numerous ways to keep equipment and machinery protected from corrosion and rust; one of the most economical and effective of those being the use of anti corrosion products.
What is Rust and Metal Corrosion?
Metal corrosion is an irreversible process and is a result of the reaction which occurs between metal and a second or multiple substances when they come into contact with each other. One of the most common examples of this is rust, a type of atmospheric corrosion which occurs when iron particles are exposed to oxygen and moisture. The likelihood of corrosion occurring quickly and the rate of acceleration of corrosion to the affected area depends on elements of the surrounding environment including heat humidity, and exposure to oxygen and other gases. Rust and corrosion are a normal part of the life of industrial machinery and require specific maintenance procedures to minimise and help avoid the likelihood and speed of corrosion forming.
THE EFFECTS OF RUST AND CORROSION ON INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT
The appearance of rust on industrial equipment is a warning sign of the potential for serious damage to machinery and risk in use. Once corrosion is visible the damage has already begun.
Industrial equipment suffering from corrosion leads to a number of financial and safety issues including:
- Weakened structural integrity
- Pipe blockages
- Contamination of products
- Risk of leaked liquids or gases
- Pump damage
- Total mechanical failure
- Increased downtime/reduced output
- Costly repairs
- Injury to workers and/or end users
Corrosion is such an important issue in industry that The World Corrosion Organization non-for-profit charity has been set up to help raise awareness of the issues it causes, including the creation of World Corrosion Awareness Day, which falls on April 24th each year.
The Cost of Corrosion
Lack of preventative measures and comprehensive maintenance processes against corrosion take a huge financial toll on global industry.
In 2017 NACE estimated the global cost of corrosion at $2.5 trillion, roughly 3.4% GDP. The average cost of corrosion for industrial nations in 2021 is up to 4.5% of GDP, making it a costly, and partially avoidable financial outlay. This estimate does not include safety or environmental financial consequences. NACE also indicated that the use of corrosion control practices could save between 15% and 35% of this cost, or $375 to $875 billion annually.
Extreme cases of corrosion left unnoticed can lead to loss of life and huge financial implications such as the devastating accident caused by corrosion at the Surry nuclear plant in Virginia in 1986.
ThyssenKrupp suggest that effective corrosion control can extend the life of metal equipment by up to 250% over its lifetime. As we have seen, effective corrosion protection offers a range of benefits and contributes considerably to the smooth running of industrial facilities and production. It also offers peace of mind and enhanced safety for all users and those in the vicinity of industrial machinery.
RUST AND CORROSION PREVENTION FROM NCH ASIA PACIFIC
NCH Asia Pacific offer a range of anti corrosion products for heavy duty and industrial use.
X Rust 7
X Rust 7 – X Rust 7 is a patented rust removal product designed for safer use and reduced environmental impact, without compromising on results.
X Rust 7 is commonly used in a range of industrial applications including:
- Agriculture
- Automotive
- Marine
- Rail
- Construction
- Manufacturing
X Rust Gel
X Rust Gel offers the same, highly effective rust remover treatment as X Rust 7, but in gel form to treat applications where immersion is not possible.
Common examples of uses for X Rust Gel includes but is not limited to:
- Vehicle bodywork
- Machining tools and tables
- Large metal components
- Gates and railings
- Building surfaces
- Construction equipment
Salvage 2+
Salvage 2+ offers an all-in-one rust encapsulator, premier and top coat solution to stop rust and provide outstanding corrosion resistance.
Salvage 2+ is commonly used in a range of industries to treat:
- Pipes
- Tanks
- Pressure vessels
- Suspended floors and walkways
- Crane rails
Chelade
Chelade chemically converts existing rust on surfaces into a black polymeric protective barrier that is moisture-free and is resistant to oxidation and deterioration.
Chelade is commonly used in a range of industries to treat:
- Cooling Towers
- Pipes & Valves
- Heavy Machinery
- Bridges & Fencing
- Marine Equipment
Stay Put
Stay Put provides a handsome, shiny metallic finish that blends well with adjacent stainless steel surfaces
Stay Put is commonly used in a range of industries to treat:
- Engine blocks
- Pipes
- Flues
- Railings
- Wheels and spokes
NCH Asia are dedicated to helping commercial businesses create safe, efficient working environments and working with you to promote a corrosion-free environment for any industrial organisation. Contact us today to find out more about how we can support your business.

