Does rust on steel have any effects? How can steel be properly preserved?

Steel is one of the important materials in construction and manufacturing. However, one issue that many people are concerned about when using steel is whether it rusts. In this article, we will learn about the properties of steel, the factors that cause rust, and ways to prevent it from rusting to keep steel durable and beautiful.

Does steel rust?

The answer is yes, steel can rust if not properly protected. Rusting of steel usually occurs when steel comes into contact with water and oxygen in the air, causing an oxidation reaction on the steel surface, forming a red rust layer. However, not all types of steel are susceptible to rust. Stainless steel, such as stainless steel, is very resistant to corrosion.

Steel types and rust resistance

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is made from iron, carbon and a large amount of chromium (usually 10-30%). This chromium layer forms a protective oxide layer on the steel surface, helping to prevent oxidation and corrosion. This is why stainless steel rarely rusts, even when exposed to water or humid environments.

Carbon steel

Carbon steel contains a higher amount of carbon than stainless steel but does not have additional anti-corrosion elements such as chromium. As a result, carbon steel is very susceptible to rust when exposed to water and air. To prevent corrosion, carbon steel must often be galvanized or painted.

Alloy steel

Alloy steel is steel mixed with other metals such as nickel, manganese, and molybdenum. Depending on the proportions of these metals, alloy steel can be more rust-resistant than carbon steel but less resistant to corrosion than stainless steel. Some special alloy steels can resist corrosion in harsh environments.

Causes of steel rust

The effects of oxygen and water

Steel rusts primarily due to its reaction with oxygen and water. When steel comes into contact with water, oxygen molecules in the air react with the iron in the steel, forming iron oxide, also known as rust. This is a natural oxidation process that often occurs in humid or rainy environments.

When steel is exposed to a corrosive environment

Environments with high humidity, sea salt or chemicals can accelerate the oxidation and corrosion of steel. For example, steel used in outdoor applications near the ocean can rust quickly due to the saltiness in the air.

Steel lacking a protective layer

If steel is not protected by a galvanized coating or anti-rust paint, it will easily corrode. This protective layer helps prevent direct contact of the steel with oxygen and water, thereby minimizing the risk of rust.

How to prevent steel rust

If steel rusts, it can reduce its load-bearing capacity, making it more susceptible to breaking or cracking. Here are some ways to prevent steel from rusting:

Use stainless steel

Choosing stainless steel (stainless steel) for projects or products that need to resist corrosion for a long time is an effective solution. Stainless steel is used in many industries, from the production of household appliances to the construction of bridges and ships.

Galvanizing and protective coating

Carbon steel can be protected from rust by being galvanized or coated with a rust-resistant paint. Galvanizing is a process that creates a protective layer of zinc on the steel surface, helping to prevent direct contact with oxygen and water.

Regular steel maintenance

To keep steel durable and beautiful, steel products need to be cleaned and inspected periodically. Cleaning the steel surface to remove dirt, especially salt will help prolong the life of the steel and prevent rust.

Conclude

Steel can rust if not properly protected, but with preventative measures such as using stainless steel, galvanizing, or regular maintenance, we can extend the life of our steel products. Understanding the different types of steel and how to care for them is essential to ensuring long-term performance.

Tiger Steel is a subsidiary of Bao Tin Steel