There is no doubt that rust is the enemy, and for farmers it is almost inevitable. But few people realise the immense impact it has across Australia.
Curtin University research has shown the cost of rust and corrosion could be costing the nation up to $32 billion each year.
“Most decision makers do not realise that corrosion is a significant problem,” said Professor Rolf Gubner, Director of the Western Australia Corrosion Research Group.
“Timely, well-planned action on corrosion is one way that we can improve the efficiency of our economy.
“Besides saving money, doing this can also help prevent horrible accidents.”
Those on the frontline combatting rust may well know the dangers, but without access to the latest in chemical advancements, businesses are losing millions in time and money to corrosion.
Aware of the huge costs to agriculture businesses, NCH chemists took on the challenge to create solutions that were both effective and safe to use.
The solutions they came up with combined the latest research and technology to formulate a range of chemical solutions for the management of rust and corrosion.
Used in Agriculture, proper corrosion management can extend the life of farming tools, specialist equipment and machinery parts. These items are major investments for farmers, but are often used in harsh conditions, constantly being exposed to dirt, grime, dust and chemicals, expediting corrosion.
NCH has developed a three-step process to not only treats existing rust but also prevents it from returning, saving Australian agriculture businesses millions.
Already renowned for their industrial degreasers, the first step is to remove contaminants from all parts. The second step involves their patented X-Rust 7 – a ground-breaking pH neutral system which is safe and environmentally friendly. It works at room temperature to remove tarnish and rust from carbon steel, mild steel, cast iron and other metals, inhibiting flash rusting. After soaking the part for between 15 minutes and 24 hours, depending on the severity of the rust, parts come out as good as new.
For parts that cannot be immersed, they have introduced X-Rust 7 Gel, which can be rubbed onto the metal and works the same way as the original product. Ideal for vehicle bodywork, machinery, gates, building structures and agricultural machinery, it completely removes even deep rust in 24 hours.
Once the rust is removed, NCH offers a range of solutions to coat and protect the affected parts to prevent rust from returning.
Tackling the problem of the most dangerous corrosion which occurs in steel structures like pipe-work, pressure vessels, suspended walkways and cranes, they introduced a new hybrid rust-encapsulator called Salvage 2+. It encapsulates and seals with a top coat in a single coat, and its outstanding corrosion resistance stands up to the 3000-hour scribed hot salt spray test.
Wherever corrosion occurs, it has the potential to cost businesses money and even endanger lives. The advancements in treatment, if properly adopted, could save the Australian economy billions.
For more information head to http://www.nch.com/
