Corrosion Protection Tape; Stop Galvanic Corrosion

The world of construction and industrial businesses often involves the use of a wide variety of metals for different applications. The construction of structures, equipment, and machinery often necessitates the interaction of metals of differing compositions. While this is a common practice, it can introduce a hidden adversary into the equation – galvanic corrosion.

The Electrochemical Reaction

Galvanic corrosion is an electrochemical process that happens when two different metals come into contact with each other. The critical factors in this reaction are the varying electrode potentials of the different metals and the presence of an electrolyte. The reaction designates one of the metals as the anode and the other as the cathode. This sets the stage for an insidious process as metallic ions start to move from the anode to the cathode.

The consequence of this transfer of ions is that the anode, being the less noble of the two metals, corrodes at a significantly accelerated rate. This corrosion process leads to structural weaknesses and compromises the integrity and service life of the materials involved. This is problematic in situations where the equipment or structures were not intended for such corrosive effects.

The Nature of the Threat

The stealthy and destructive nature of galvanic corrosion should not be underestimated. The presence of moisture, which can be as common as rain or as complex as an industrial electrolyte, catalyzes the electrochemical process. In essence, a small electrical current flows between the two metals, triggering the movement of ions and beginning the process of degradation.

Identifying the Culprits

One of the principal causes of galvanic corrosion is the mingling of dissimilar metals in industrial and construction applications. For instance, aluminum may be used alongside steel, and copper alloys may interact with stainless steel. The risk of galvanic corrosion becomes increasingly significant in environments where moisture is abundant, such as in outdoor construction sites or facilities with high humidity levels.

The Outcome: Structural Weakness

The corrosive attack on the anode, which could be a fastener, a metal component, or even a structural element, results in significant structural weakness over time. This weakness can lead to safety concerns, operational inefficiency, and costly repairs or replacements. In essence, galvanic corrosion poses a significant threat to the safety, integrity, and longevity of any structure or equipment.

The Solution: Corrosion Protection Tape

To combat the potentially disastrous consequences of galvanic corrosion, the use of corrosion protection tape is a simple yet highly effective strategy. This protection tape is designed to act as a barrier between dissimilar metals, ensuring that they do not come into direct contact with each other and thus averting the electrochemical reaction.

Heskins Corrosion Protection Tape is a prime example of such a solution. This tape is crafted from a plastic film and features an adhesive backing that simplifies application. By placing this tape on the surface of one of the metals that will come into contact with another, you create a robust barrier that mitigates the electrochemical process, preventing galvanic corrosion.

The Benefits of Corrosion Protection Tape

1. Cost-Effective: Corrosion protection tape is an economical alternative to the potentially exorbitant costs associated with structural degradation and the premature replacement of corroded equipment.
2. Durability: Designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, corrosion protection tape offers a long-lasting solution for safeguarding your metals.
3. Customization: Whether you require rolls or die-cut sheets, our tape can be tailored to your specific needs. Depending on your order quantity, we can even produce die cuts in specific shapes to enhance application and performance efficiency.

How to Apply Corrosion Protection Tape

To ensure that you receive the best results from your corrosion protection tape, we have created an instructional video that provides insights into proper application. You can view this video here.

Getting Started

Don’t let the menace of galvanic corrosion compromise your structures and equipment. To inquire further about Heskins Corrosion Protection Tape, request a quote, or place an order, we encourage you to get in touch with our experienced sales team.

Contact us via email, live chat, phone, or visit our website’s “Contact Us” page. We are eager to assist you in fortifying your equipment and structures against the harmful effects of galvanic corrosion. Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect your investments today.