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19 March 2026 at 19:40 • 4 mins read
Rust is the name for the orange-brown flakes of iron oxide that form on the surfaces of iron-containing metals when exposed to air and water for a prolonged period of time. This type of corrosion is often regarded as unsightly and is highly destructive to the integrity of the metal it consumes. This article provides tips on how to prevent rust in various kinds of iron-containing metals, such as steel and stainless steel.
Rusting begins when iron reacts with oxygen in water, saltwater, acids, or other harsh chemicals. As the iron oxide flakes off the metal surface, it exposes new iron molecules, which continue the reaction process. Eventually, large areas of rust form that may cause the entire metal structure to disintegrate. Some of the adverse effects that rust has on metal include:
To prevent iron oxide buildup that causes rust, it is essential to provide proper care and maintenance for vehicles, tools, and machinery manufactured from ferrous metals that contain iron. The following examples provide some of the best ways in preventing rust:
Dipping metal objects, such as clocks, into a bluing solution of water, sodium hydroxide, and potassium nitrate provides strong corrosion resistance. Commercially available rust prevention products such as aerosol sprays or cloth wipes can protect metal objects, including tools, outdoor gear, vehicles, and large metal parts, from rusting. Products and accessories that help prevent rust include:
Stainless steel alloys contain iron. However, stainless steels resist rust due to the high percentage of reactive chromium content, which is even more reactive than iron. The chromium in the alloy oxidizes quickly to form a protective layer of chromium oxide on the metal surface, preventing oxygen from reaching the underlying steel.
Galvanization is a coating process used to preserve the substrate steel, providing rust-free protection for many years. In the galvanizing process, a piece of steel is coated with liquid zinc. Zinc protects the steel in three unique ways, including:
Certain non-ferrous metals contain little to no iron, making them rust-free. These rust-resistant metals are ideal for applications that require the presence of specific metal properties without the limits that often exist with ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals include:
With seven locations serving California, Arizona, Nevada, and Northern Mexico, IMS is a full-service metal supplier that understands your needs. Our inventory of metal products includes a broad range of metal shapes and an extensive selection of alloys. We offer the following advantages:
Contact us for more information regarding our rust-resistant metals and metalworking accessories, including rust-prevention products. Our experts will assist you in finding the metal that’s right for your specific application.