Technology

Technology

The following information provides guidance on the correct use of vapor corrosion inhibitor (VCI) products in order to maximise their effectiveness.

Note that VCI products act as EMITTERS of corrosion inhibiting vapor.  They can be used in conjunction with desiccants which ABSORB moisture (water).  The two items together provide a powerful corrosion protection solution.

Usage

  • To maximise the effectiveness of VCI products that are placed inside an enclosure, restrict air-flow as much as possible.  Place the VCI as close as possible to the centre of the enclosure to ensure full corrosion protection coverage.  Refer to the Product Information Sheets for more information on correct placement.
  • Pack only clean and dry items.  The VCI will provide protection against some moisture present on items but performs better on dry items.
  • When storing sensitive items, wear gloves to avoid leaving acidic, corrosion causing fingerprints.
  • When packing metal parts, the ambient temperature and the part temperature should be the same to prevent condensation from forming inside the enclosure.
  • Make sure the enclosure is tightly sealed or closed.

Properties

  • Vapor capsules and storage bags can be used in any environment with no measurable chemical interaction with other elements.  There is no likelihood that the vapors will enhance flammability or react with industrial or marine atmospheres to create any by-products.
  • You can combine VCI packaging materials with vapor capsules and desiccants to ensure maximum corrosion protection throughout.
  • VCI products are stable under normal storage and packing conditions.  However, avoid contact with flames, strong acids, solvents that swell polyethylene, oxidisers and reducing agents that can react with the internally contained chemical system.
  • Vapor capsules will not provide protection from corrosion caused by the direct contact of the metal with acids, water, etc.
  • Over an extended period of time (ten or more years) VCI products will yellow paper.  Do not use in proximity to antique books, photographs or valuable documents.

Warnings

  • As with any plastic bag do not put any person or animal inside as suffocation or death could occur.  Keep bags and other plastic products such as weapon tube away from small children.
  • Do not use VCI products repeatedly at temperatures above 80 degrees Celsius.
  • Do not install VCI products where they will come in contact with bulk water or be submerged.
  • Vapor capsules must not be disassembled to expose the contents.  In case of accidental ingestion give water and induce vomiting.