5 Ways To Prevent Rust on Your Heavy Equipment

If rust isn't treated on time, it can be quick to deteriorate your whole heavy equipment and become a huge problem on your worksite. It is well-known that rust ruins the stability and functionality of crucial equipment, which can cost businesses thousands of money. If you can effectively prevent rust, serious problems can be avoided and can save you a lot of money. So in this article we’ll be discussing some small preventive measures can make massive immediate benefits, and save you frustration, time and money.

Rust is destructive and affects all metal structures and objects that are exposed to moisture and oxygen. However, abrasive blasting services are required to prepare any surface that has already been damaged by corrosion. The process uses a high-velocity device to force the media to the surface of the equipment. It helps roughen or smoothen a surface, remove contaminants, or shape the surface.

Here are five different ways you can prevent rust on your heavy equipment.

1. Apply quality paint

Paints create a layer that protects metal surfaces by preventing moisture from reaching them. Although paint cannot stop the moisture completely, painting is an easy and straightforward way of slowing down rust. It would be best if you looked for a high-quality paint that adheres to the metal. So mind the paint you are using and the existing metal finishes. Ensure you go for oil-based paint if you want to prevent excessive contaminants or moisture. Lastly, don't leave out the bolts and welded joints. Any unfilled crevices or weak spots may start rusting if they aren't painted.

2. Use equipment made of alloys

What is an alloy? This is a substance that has been made by melting two or more metals with different corroding rates. The result is rust resistance. All steel types are alloys, as they are created from carbon and iron. Other metals like manganese, nickel, and chromium can also make various kinds of steel alloys. Some of them, like stainless steel, are produced to prevent rust. However, they rust slowly because they are not resistant to corrosion completely.

3. Apply oil

People owning guns know the benefits of oiling firearms, even if the weapons are not being used. However, have you thought about applying oil to your machinery or equipment to prevent rust? Oil goes a long way, The Craftsman blog even wrote an in depth guide on how to stop rust for good.

Oil lubricates the metal parts allowing them to work using lesser friction and provides a barrier to protect the metal from rust. It operates through a pretty simple principle — an oil coating prevents moisture from reacting with the material and causing rusting.

4. Galvanize

Galvanisation provides a protective layer over steel or iron metals by coating them with zinc. Galvanising is an effective and cheap way of preventing rust because zinc is known to corrode slower than iron. However, like other rust prevention methods, zinc coating can’t withstand harsh environments like salt or acid rain. This method improves the outer appearance of the equipment.

5. Use dry coating

Just like oil, dry coating creates a protective barrier to prevent rust. These preventive products can be applied through a wash, dip, or spray. The dry coat is ideal for any metal part that needs to create a solid grip or to stay clean. You use other methods of preventing rust along with dry coating. For instance, you can apply a dry coating over powder coated or painted metal to increase its level of protection.

See how we help other businesses in mining, construction and manufacturing protect their equipment with Powder coating and other industrial painting services.

The Bottom Line

With so many causes and types of rust, it's vital to save your company from losses resulting from rust and corrosion. You can keep your heavy equipment safe from external weather elements. Start applying these tips and you will see an incredible difference in the longevity of your equipment.

Have a worksite and need help with removing rust from your small or large equipment? Check out our Abrasive Blasting and Industrial Painting services!