This microscopic rust could be the result of incoming materials or something that was initiated in previous metalworking processes while with the manufacturer. The only true way to deal with pre-existing rust is for manufacturers to institute better in-process corrosion inhibition and for companies to improve quality assurance protocols on receivables.<\/p>\n
Not to worry\u2014if you\u2019ve purchased or been shipped metal you believe may have come with traces of rust already present, there are steps you can take to minimize rust growth and hopefully prevent future damage.<\/p>\n
Preventing rust caused by dirt<\/h2>\n![\"rusty](\"https:\/\/www.originalcosmoline.com\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/rust2-300x237.jpg\")
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<\/h2>\nSince dirt is such a common contributor to rust, it\u2019s important to understand how dirt can influence rust prevention and how you can stop it from encouraging future rust growth.<\/p>\n
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- Develop a clean and rinse stage before adding any kind of rust inhibitor. Using something like Cosmoline before<\/em> properly cleaning, rinsing, and drying the metal will only trap dirt beneath the inhibitor.<\/li>\n
- Thoroughly clean all parts, making sure to inspect gaps, creases, and crevices that might trap dirt.<\/li>\n
- Inspect rust prevention application tanks for dirt load. By cleaning and rinsing this tank, you can prevent dirt from getting into the inhibitor and sneaking onto your parts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"water](\"https:\/\/www.originalcosmoline.com\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/rust3-300x200.jpg\")
Wet parts and rust<\/h2>\nWater contamination, humidity, and other fluids can all contribute to rust. Likewise, too much inhibitor or mixing two or more can create a form of streaky corrosion. If you have rust caused by wet parts, you have some options.<\/p>\n
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- Use a water-displacing and separating rust inhibitor with agitation to get a clean, full coating of rust preventive on your parts, like the Cosmoline aerosol<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Make sure to clean and dry parts completely.<\/li>\n
- Use inhibitors with a stronger-than-average film strength to ensure optimal coat durability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Avoiding rust preventive abuse<\/h2>\n
If you\u2019re using a rust preventive, that\u2019s great\u2014but overuse or a poor preventive can do more harm than good for your metal. Using the same inhibitor over time can cause it to lose effectiveness. The effectiveness can be influenced by factors such as:<\/p>\n
![\"Cosmoline](\"https:\/\/www.originalcosmoline.com\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/products-300x300.jpg\")
<\/a>To get the most protection out of your preventive, check your product for any of the parameters outlined above. These factors contribute to a weak rust inhibitor. Learning to practice better fluid maintenance and establishing \u2018dump and recharge\u2019 cycles can lead to more effective use of a preventive without wasting product or encouraging rust to grow on your metal.<\/p>\n