Rust happens when metal gets wet and is exposed to air. While paint works well to stop rust, sometimes we want to also see the natural look of the metal. Here are some simple ways to protect metal without paint.
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Drying agents, called desiccants, soak up moisture from the air. Common types include the silica gel packets that come in shoe boxes and electronics packaging. Place these in tool boxes or storage containers with metal items to keep the air dry. They work best in closed spaces, but they will need to be replaced when they get full of moisture.
Special Vapour Protection
Vapour corrosion inhibitors come as special papers or plastic bags. They release invisible substances that stick to metal and keep the rust away. Simply wrap your metal tools or parts in these materials for protection during storage. This works great for items you aren’t using very often.
Keeping Air Out
Storing metal items in airtight containers helps to prevent rust by keeping moisture away. Plastic containers with good seals or zip-lock bags work well for smaller items. For even better protection, add drying agents inside the container.
Oil and Grease Barriers
Coating metal with a thin layer of oil or grease creates a barrier that water can’t get through. This old-fashioned method works well for tools, machine parts and outdoor equipment. The downside is that you’ll need to clean the oil off before using the items again.
Clear Protective Coatings
Wax or clear polymer sprays give a see-through layer of protection. Unlike paint, these let you see the metal underneath while still keeping moisture out. These coatings work well for tools, outdoor furniture and decorative items where you want to show off the metal’s appearance. If you need electroless nickel plating, firms such as poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/plating/electroless-nickel-plating can help.
Choose the method that fits your needs based on how the metal will be used and stored. With these simple approaches, you can keep your metal items rust-free without covering up their natural finish and keep them looking good.