Corrosion Inhibitors

Corroless™ Corrosion Inhibitors (CCI’s) are a group of products based on anticorrosive volatile compounds, known as Vapour Corrosion Inhibitors (commonly called VCI’s). Normal coatings provide anticorrosive protection mainly by forming a physical barrier – the paint layer. VCI’s contain compounds that evaporate, or vapourise, to form an anticorrosive ‘gas’ in an air space, which helps prevent metal components from rusting. VCI’s can therefore be used to protect metal areas that would be impossible to paint, either because they are inaccessible (internal pipework, inside a marine engine) or because painting would not be suitable (such as an electrical circuit board, an electrical supply box).

CCI’s are available as powder, or powder-containing ‘devices’, to protect dry spaces; as oils and greases for mechanical internals, ropes, winches; as temporary preservation coatings for metal items in storage; and as hydrotest additives (mainly for Offshore use) that can be discharged into the marine environment.

Didcot Water Tank Lining and Protective Coating 36

View our corrosion case study of Didcot Railway Centre which was exhibiting heavy corrosion and leaking.

The history of vapor corrosion inhibitors

The concept of vapor corrosion inhibitors (VCIs) has been around for several decades. The development and use of VCIs can be traced back to the mid-20th century.

One of the early instances involves the discovery of the protective properties of certain amines and their ability to prevent corrosion. Researchers found that these amines, when applied to metal surfaces, would release vapor-phase corrosion inhibitors into the air, forming a protective layer on the metal.

The commercial use of VCIs gained traction in the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and military applications, began to adopt vapor corrosion inhibitors as an effective method to prevent corrosion on metal surfaces. The chemical industry developed specific formulations of VCIs for different metals and environmental conditions.

Since then, ongoing research and advancements in materials science have led to the development of more sophisticated and tailored vapor corrosion inhibitors. These inhibitors continue to be an important part of corrosion protection strategies in diverse industries, helping to extend the lifespan of metal components and reduce maintenance costs.

Why use vapor corrosion inhibitors

Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs) are used for several reasons to protect metal surfaces from corrosion in various industrial and storage applications. Here are some key reasons why VCIs are employed:

  1. Effective Corrosion Protection: VCIs create a protective layer on metal surfaces that inhibits the electrochemical reactions responsible for corrosion. This protective layer helps prevent the formation of rust and other corrosion products, extending the lifespan of metal components.
  2. Versatility: VCIs can be applied to a wide range of metals, including steel, aluminum, copper, and others. This versatility makes them suitable for diverse industries where different metals may be in use.
  3. Ease of Application: VCIs are often applied as coatings, films, papers, or other forms that are easy to apply to metal surfaces. This makes them convenient for various manufacturing and storage processes.
  4. Long-Term Protection: VCIs provide long-lasting protection, making them suitable for applications where metal components may be stored or transported over extended periods.
  5. Cost-Effective: Using VCIs can be a cost-effective strategy compared to dealing with the consequences of corrosion, such as the need for repairs, replacement, or increased maintenance. Preventing corrosion helps reduce overall maintenance costs.
  6. Temporary Protection during Storage and Transportation: VCIs are commonly used to protect metal parts and products during storage and transportation. This is especially important for industries where metal components may be exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
  7. Ease of Removal: In many cases, VCIs can be easily removed from metal surfaces, allowing for the clean and straightforward use of the metal components once they are ready for further processing or assembly.

In summary, the use of Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors offers an efficient and practical approach to preventing corrosion, preserving the integrity of metal components, and reducing the economic and environmental impact of corrosion-related issues.

Corroless Corrosion Inhibitors vapourise and migrate to metal surfaces to form a monomolecular film which excludes oxygen and moisture from the substrate. This interrupts the corrosion cycle to form a protective barrier between the substrate and the environment. Used extensively offshore for the mothballing of plant and machinery these are truly unique products.

CCI 350

VCI GREASE
A lubricating, anticorrosion grease, containing oils, waxes and vapour phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI). Up to 4 years protection for chains, wire ropes, conveyors, etc.
CCI-350 – Data Sheet
Corroless CCI 350 – MSDS

CCI 300M

VCI OIL ADDITIVE
A vapour phase corrosion inhibiting (VCI) additive for lubricating and hydraulic oils. Protects areas where the oil has drained away. Up to 2 years protection.
CCI-300M – Data Sheet
Corroless CCI 300M – MSDS

CCI 250

VCI HYDROTEST ADDITIVE
A water borne, vapour phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI), extensively used as a hydrotest additive in the offshore industry. Accepted for discharge into the marine environment.
CCI-250 – Data Sheet
Corroless CCI 250 – MSDS

CCI 450

VCI CLEAR COATING
A clear resin coating containing vapour phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI), for up to 4 years protection of metal items where visibility of the substrate is required.
CCI-450 – Data Sheet
Corroless CCI 450A – MSDS
Corroless CCI 450 – MSDS

CCI 400

VCI WAX COATING
A wax coating, also available in aerosol cans, containing vapour phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI). Up to 4 years protection for void spaces, box sections, winches, etc.
CCI-400 – Data Sheet
Corroless CCI 400A – MSDS
Corroless CCI 400 – MSDS

CCI 355

VCI LITHIUM GREASE (HEAVY DUTY)
A vapour phase corrosion inhibiting (VCI) lithium grease, for heavy wear surfaces requiring continuous lubrication. Up to 3 years protection for open gearing, bearings, etc.
CCI-355 – Data Sheet
Corroless CCI 355 – MSDS

CCI DEVICES

VCI DEVICES
Convenient delivery devices for CCI Powder, a vapour phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI). Giving up to 2 years corrosion protection for electrical equipment and enclosed areas.
CCI-Devices – Data Sheet
Corroless Devices V12 – MSDS
Corroless Devices V1 – MSDS
Corroless Devices V100 – MSDS

CCI POWDER

VCI POWDER
A vapour phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI) for corrosion protection in enclosed areas such as cavities and complex equipment. Accepted for discharge into the marine environment.
CCI-Powder – Data Sheet
Corroless POWDER – MSDS