Preventing corrosion in machining involves proactive steps to protect equipment and materials from the damaging effects of moisture, chemicals, and electrochemical reactions. By implementing simple practices, you can significantly extend the life of your machine tools, fixtures, and workpieces.
Corrosion, particularly rust (iron oxide), is a common issue in machine shops due to the presence of metal, coolants, and fluctuating humidity. It can lead to decreased precision, machine downtime, and costly repairs or replacements. Focusing on preventing corrosion rather than dealing with its aftermath is key to efficient machining operations.
Key Methods for Preventing Machining Corrosion
Effective corrosion prevention in a machining environment primarily focuses on controlling the factors that cause corrosion, such as moisture and the interaction between different metals. Based on practical insights, several methods are crucial:
- Maintain Dryness: Ensure a source of dry shop air to clean fixtures and tools. Using dry air helps remove moisture and metal particles that can trap moisture, thereby preventing rust formation on critical surfaces.
- Avoid Dissimilar Metal Contact: Prevent fixturing dissimilar metals together. When different metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte (like moisture or coolant), they can form a galvanic cell, leading to galvanic corrosion. This specifically impacts fixtures and vises.
- Apply Rust Preventative: Use a light oil rust preventative on key areas of your machine tool to prevent corrosion. Applying a protective layer of oil creates a barrier that repels moisture and other corrosive agents, safeguarding susceptible metal surfaces.
These practices directly address the most common causes of corrosion in a typical machine shop setting, offering practical and implementable solutions for maintaining equipment and preventing workpiece spoilage due to rust.
