If you have a metal surface that you want to ensure doesn't rust, there are multiple steps you can take to protect the metal and ensure it remains rust-free. There are lots of ways to protect metal against rust.

Way #1: Apply Oil Coating

One way to protect against rusting is by applying an oil coating to the surface of the metal. This works best on metal that is being used in a machine or a similar application. A coat of oil, or lubricant, can help to either slow down or prevent rusting by keeping moisture from reacting with the iron found in the metal. Lubrication is often used on metal machinery, not just to keep it running smoothly, but to prevent rusting. Oil is wet, though, and a wet surface isn't always the best way to protect the metal.

Way #2: Use a Dry Coating

Another way to protect against rust is with a dry coating. With a dry coating, you are applying a special rust prevention product directly onto the metal. Dry coating is often used on metals that are used for shipping and storing items. With a dry coating, the product dries on the metal and creates a protective coating without leaving any visible residue behind.

Way #3: Painting

A simple way to protect a metal surface is by just applying a layer of paint to it. Specific types of paint will help protect the metal from damage and will help keep moisture from reaching the surface of the metal and reacting with it. But, of course, with painting, you have to keep an eye out for chips and be sure to keep the paint fresh so you don't get rust on the metal surface that it is protecting.

Way #4: Blueing

Another process to protect metal from rusting is by using blueing. With blueing, a layer of magnetite is placed over the metal surface to protect it. Then, to maintain the magnetite, the surface has to be oiled regularly. If oil is not applied when it should be, the surface will turn either blue or black, hence the term "blueing."

Way #5: Galvanize

Finally, to protect a metal surface, you can galvanize it. Galvanizing is specifically used on steel or iron surfaces. Then, zinc is applied to the steel or iron surface. The application of zinc protects the metal underneath, as the zinc corrodes at a much slower rate than other metals.

If you have a metal surface, part, or machine that you want to protect from rust, you can use lots of different rust protection methods to protect it, from applying oil to painting it to using a dry coat. The key is to find the best method for whatever application you are dealing with.

For more information about rust prevention oils, contact a local company, like Sandburg Oil.