Protection of Aluminium in Storage and in Transit

Abstract

Aluminium in storage and transit mayor may not require protection depending on the exposure conditions and the economic degree of protection required.

There are two principal causes of corrosion in storage and transit: (l) moisture in its various forms, and (2) anything which the moisture can dissolve to provide a corrosive solution, or anything which can contribute to the corrosion process in the presence of the moisture. Much aluminium is stored and transported with no more packaging than is required for mechanical stability. When a high standard of surface quality is required, protective measures can be taken depending on the severity of conditions and the degree of protection that can be justified. These measures include: Storage in clean, dry, heated buildings with the temperature controlled above the dew point of the environment; Protective coatings such as stripping lacquers, waxes, greases and oils; Rigid timber containers lined with water-proof paper, and with all joins in the lining sealed with impermeable adhesive tape; Wrapping in mouldable wax paper; and Storage and transit in air-conditioned metal containers. Desiccants may be incorporated in the third and fourth systems. Consideration is given to the corrosive effects of atmospheric fallout, and the effects of corrosive constituents in packaging materials.