What are the methods to prevent oxidation of iron galvanized tweezers?
1. Methods to prevent oxidation
Surface treatment: The galvanized layer can be passivated or surface alloyed to form a passivation film, which inhibits the activity of zinc and reduces oxidation reactions.
Coating protective layer: such as oil coating, waxing, etc., can effectively isolate humid air and prevent oxidation.
Storage environment: Store in a dry, well ventilated environment, avoiding humid, sealed, and poorly ventilated conditions.
Transportation protection: Avoid rainwater, fog, condensation water, and snow erosion during transportation, try to use container shipping, and avoid contact with seawater.
2. Oxidation time
The oxidation rate of galvanized layer is greatly affected by environmental factors:
In a dry and well ventilated environment, the galvanized layer can remain unoxidized for a long time, usually up to several months or even years.
In humid, high humidity, or poorly ventilated environments, the galvanized layer may experience oxidation within a few days to weeks, manifested as "white rust".
3. The relationship between oxidation and rust
After the oxidation of the galvanized layer, a mixture of Zn (OH) ₂ and ZnCO3 will form on the surface, which can to some extent prevent further corrosion.
But if the oxidation products are damaged or the environmental conditions are harsh (such as high humidity, salt containing environment), the galvanized layer may lose its protective effect, leading to accelerated rusting of the substrate iron.
4. Problems caused by oxidation
In addition to affecting aesthetics, oxidation may also bring the following problems:
Reduced corrosion resistance: After the oxidation products are destroyed, the protective performance of the galvanized layer decreases, and the base iron is more prone to rusting.
Impact on usability: Oxidation products may make the surface of the tweezers rough, affecting their clamping accuracy and tactile feel.
Increased maintenance costs: After oxidation, additional cleaning and maintenance work is required, which increases the cost of use.
5. Other precautions
Insufficient thickness of the galvanized layer or excessive impurities in the zinc solution can accelerate oxidation and corrosion.
The galvanized layer has self-healing ability after scratching, but severe damage may lead to accelerated oxidation.
In summary, through appropriate surface treatment, good storage and transportation conditions, the oxidation of iron zinc coated tweezers can be effectively delayed. If not treated in a timely manner after oxidation, it may indeed accelerate the rusting of the substrate iron and affect the performance and lifespan of the tweezers.