There’s no mincing words: commercial businesses that depend on various pieces of equipment to keep their employees working and customers satisfied need to keep the equipment in good working condition at all times. That means not only keeping the equipment running properly, but also maintaining their appearance to prevent damaging rust.
Keeping rust at bay will prolong the life of the equipment and make operations run more smoothly. Small actions now can benefit the bottom line of a business not too far down the road.
With just a few small steps, it’s fairly easy to prevent rust from forming in the first place. However, if it’s already too late to stop the rust invasion, in many cases there are also reliable ways to turn back the hands of time.
Let’s start with preventative efforts. To keep rust from rearing its ugly head on your business equipment:
– Keep machines and equipment properly lubricated. This is the single most important thing business owners can do to protect surfaces from rust and corrosion. Lubricants will eliminate annoying squeaks, allowing the equipment to operate smoothly and helping to moisture-proof machines and electrical equipment to stop rust from getting a firm foothold.
– Clean equipment as necessary. This simple step is the best way to keep heavy use commercial equipment protected from normal wear and tear as well as rust. However, read product labels to make sure you are using the best product that will not only clean, but also prevent the oxidation process. Rust forms through an oxidation reaction and many cleaners are oxidizing agents. Also, always make sure to disconnect the electrical power source before undertaking any cleaning effort to ensure safety.
– Take it to the next level. To immediately put a stop to rust and corrosion, consider applying a zinc metal spray. These products are the equivalent of a galvanizing treatment as they fuse and adhere to the surface to make it resistant to cracking, peeling and oxidation. Products such as Cold Galvanizing 95, manufactured by Chase Products Co., are available at quality online janitorial retailers such as Worldwide Janitor.
If you already can see spots of rust – or even large patches – consider painting the surface. However, don’t grab the paintbrush just yet. First the rusty surface needs to be properly prepared. Try this:
– First, remove all loose rust particles with a wire brush and cloth, being especially careful not to cause further damage. Many times a large rust problem may initially look smaller so you don’t want cause further damage. Also, rusty edges can be extremely sharp and dangerous, so be sure to wear the proper protective equipment as necessary.
– Apply a rust converter product like Snee Chemical Company’s Endall Rust. These types of products contain tannic acid and other preventative corrosion inhibitors that react with rust to create a workable surface that resists future corrosion. However, make sure to read the product’s instructions completely as many of these products are ideal for use on iron and steel surfaces only and will not work on aluminum, copper, stainless steel or galvanized metal.
– Depending on the scope of the project, use either a paintbrush or roller to apply the rust converter product. Let dry completely.
– For best results, apply a second coat of the rust converter product and allow to cure at least 48 hours. After that time period, the surface should have been transformed into a black, protective polymer coating that is ready to accept an oil-based or epoxy-based paint.
– Paint with the product of your choice and allow to dry completely. What you should have in an attractive, working piece of equipment that should serve your company better for years to come.
