Rust-free packaging with VCI corrosion protection

Not only delicate porcelain must be well protected during transport. With metallic products, too, proper protection against corrosion and oxidation is one of the factors that determines whether a component retains its value over the long term. Both are caused by contact with moisture or oxygen, among other things: so it is best to keep metallic items away from both.

The right packaging protects

Thanks to various extra functions, special papers help and specifically protect the metal surfaces of your products against harmful external influences. Oiled paper, for example, can be used to ship or store oily components such as ball bearings or metal sheets from the metal or automotive industry. It consists of strong kraft paper and is covered with a paraffin layeron each side (see also sketch below). This makes the oiled paper absolutely impermeable to water and reliably protects against the effects of corrosion. Although oiled paper is so tear-resistant and stable that even pointed and heavy objects can be packed with it, it can be folded easily and thus adapted exactly to the intended contents.

VCI corrosion protection paper

If metal parts with hard-to-reach areas such as cavities, drill holes or folds are to be protected from damage such as rust, VCI corrosion protection paper is a good choice. VCI stands for Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor, which means “volatile corrosion inhibitor”. This is exactly what the paper does: the VCI substance in the material inhibits the electrochemical processes that normally lead to corrosion. In the saturated atmosphere of the closed packaging, special salts form a thin protective layer around the wrapped product against the influence of moisture and oxygen. This layer reaches even the smallest gaps. After unpacking, the salts evaporate by themselves without leaving any residues, i.e. the metal parts are immediately ready for use or can be processed. VCI paper is completely free of grease and oil, and as it contains no nitrite, it is also harmless to health. As it reliably protects metallic products from condensation caused by temperature fluctuations and moisture, VCI corrosion protection paper is particularly suitable as value-preserving transport protection for the export of individual components.

When packing with corrosion protection packaging, it is important to wear gloves. These are not required for the packaging material but to protect the metal parts from corrosion. The parts should be packed clean and without fingerprints. If, for example, there are welding residues on the metal part, this can promote the formation of corrosion. The distance between the VCI packaging and the metal part should not be greater than 30 cm. The closer the packaging is to the product, the better it can work. In addition, the packaging should be well closed and protected from draughts so that the corrosion inhibitor does not volatilise.

VCI corrosion protection bags with pressure seals are particularly suitable for packaging smaller products at risk of corrosion. For large-volume products, VCI corrosion protection bags with gussets or the special film on a roll are suitable. To counteract the possible effects of condensation within these film packages, the additional use of desiccant bags is recommended.

Of course, VCI packaging is also available in paper. The reinforced tar paper, for example, consists of several layers (see also sketch below): Two layers of Interkraft paper enclose a polyester grid and a layer of bitumen. Bitumen is a tar-like mixture of various organic substances that has a particularly sealing effect and is impermeable to water. This means that tar paper can also be used as steam protection or insulation – many people use it to line entire boxes or wooden crates for export. Tar paper is extremely tear-resistant and is ideal for heavy or pointed objects. It is also ideal for storing or shipping metal components. If you want, you can also use it as additional, water-repellent outer packaging.

So don’t give rust a chance first and protect your valuable metal products with the appropriate special paper – whether for permanent storage or for shipping overseas.