Rusty Trouble? Get to Know the Different Rust "Culprits"
Ahoy, mateys! Have your once-shiny metal belongings become victims of a reddish menace? Don’t worry, this guide will help you identify the different types of rust, those sneaky villains attacking your metal treasures!
The Rust Rogues' Gallery:
Surface Rust: This is the most common troublemaker. It appears as a reddish-brown film or light bumps on the metal’s surface. It happens when metal meets moisture and air for a long time. Although it might not seem like a big deal yet, catching it early can prevent further damage.
Pitting Rust: This foe digs deeper, creating small holes or pits on the metal. It shows up when moisture keeps getting to the metal for a long time. This type can weaken the metal, making it less strong.
Crevice Corrosion: This sneaky rust likes to hide in tight spaces, like where two pieces of metal touch or under a bolt head. It’s hard to see at first, but it can cause a lot of damage before you even know it’s there.
Filiform Corrosion: Imagine tiny threads growing under the metal’s surface. That’s filiform corrosion! This one is most common on metal that’s been painted or coated, and it can spread quickly, breaking down the protective layer.
Galvanic Corrosion: This happens when two different types of metal touch each other in a wet environment. One metal (the less noble one) starts to rust faster, like a friend taking a hit for another.
How to Spot These Rusty Rascals:
Now that you know the types, how do you find them? Here are some easy ways:
- Look Closely: Check the metal for any discoloration, bumps, or flaking. Don’t forget to look in hidden areas like seams or underneath things (like under your car).
- The Touch Test: Gently touch the suspicious spot. Surface rust will feel rough and uneven, while deeper rust might have small holes.
- The “Poke” Test (Be Careful!): Use a screwdriver (gently!) to press the spot. If it crumbles easily, it’s likely surface or pitting rust. Deeper rust might be tougher to press.
Catching Rust Early is Important:
The sooner you find rust, the easier it is to get rid of. By catching it early, you can stop it from causing more damage and save yourself time and money.
Need Help with a Rusty Situation?
If you’re not sure what kind of rust you’re dealing with, or if it seems like a big job, don’t hesitate to call a professional! Auckland Sandblasting LTD has the knowledge and tools to tackle any rust problem, big or small. We offer complete metal restoration services, so you can get your metal looking its best and protected for years to come.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we’ll explore the benefits of professional rust removal, especially for your car!
