Protecting Your Excavator by the Sea

Excavator Rust Prevention with Nyalic and Salt Away

Living near the sea has its perks, but it also poses challenges for heavy machinery like excavators. The constant exposure to saltwater can accelerate rusting, potentially reducing the lifespan of your equipment. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips to minimize rust and keep your excavator operating smoothly in a coastal environment

Ovenden Excavators in action at sea - A Nyalic coatings customer
Ovenden Earthmoving Excavators in action at sea – A Nyalic coatings customer in the United Kingdom
  • Regular Salt Away Cleaning: Rinse the excavator with Salt Away and water after each use to remove salt residue. Pay special attention to undercarriage components, joints, and hard-to-reach areas

  • Nyalic Corrosion-Resistant Coating: Apply Nyalic anti-corrosion coating to exposed metal and painted surfaces. Choose Nyalic coating, specifically designed and proven for marine environments

  • Protective Lubrication: Regularly lubricate all moving parts with high-quality, water-resistant grease. Use lubricants that form a protective barrier against saltwater

  • Store Excavator Properly: Park the excavator in a covered area when not in use. If indoor storage isn’t possible, use weather-resistant covers to shield the machine

  • Routine Excavator Inspections: Conduct frequent inspections for signs of rust or corrosion. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage

  • Salt Away Flushing: Flush the engine’s cooling system with Salt Away and freshwater to remove salt deposits. Follow manufacturer recommendations for proper flushing procedures

  • Nyalic Electrical Component Protection: Apply dielectric grease to electrical connections to prevent corrosion. Check and replace damaged wiring as needed

  • Routine Excavator Maintenance Schedule: Establish a regular maintenance schedule, adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Regularly inspect and replace filters, fluids, and other consumables

  • Avoid Extended Exposure: Limit the time your excavator spends in direct contact with saltwater. Plan work tasks efficiently to minimize unnecessary exposure

  • Coastal Environment Awareness: Stay informed about weather conditions, tides, and other factors that can affect rusting. Adjust maintenance and protection measures based on seasonal variations

By implementing these simple proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of rust and corrosion on your excavator when working in coastal areas. Remember, regular care and attention to detail will extend the life of your equipment, ensuring it continues to perform reliably for years to come

Excavator Corrosive Impact: Unveiling the Role of Salt in Heavy Machine Rusting

Heavy machines play a crucial role in various industries, from construction to maritime activities. However, these robust machines face a formidable foe, especially in coastal areas – salt. The seemingly harmless sea spray carries the potential to accelerate the corrosion process, gradually eating away at the structural integrity of heavy equipment

Understanding the Corrosion Process:

Corrosion is a natural process where metals, such as those found in heavy machines, react with their environment, leading to the deterioration of their surface. In coastal regions, the presence of salt in the air significantly amplifies this process

The Role of Salt in Corrosion:

Nyalic Corrosion Protectant for Electrical Panels
Nyalic Corrosion Protectant for Excavator Electrical Panels

Electrochemical Reaction (Galvanic corrosion):

Saltwater is an excellent conductor of electricity. When salt comes into contact with metal surfaces, it initiates an electrochemical reaction. This process involves the flow of electrons between the metal and the saltwater, leading to the formation of rust

Accelerated Oxidation:

Saltwater increases the rate of oxidation (rusting), which is a key component of the corrosion process. Oxidation involves the loss of electrons by the metal, resulting in the formation of rust or corrosion on the surface. The presence of salt expedites this oxidation reaction

Hygroscopic Nature of Salt:

Salt has a hygroscopic nature, meaning it attracts and absorbs moisture from the surroundings. In coastal areas, where humidity levels are often high, salt absorbs moisture, creating a corrosive environment. The absorbed moisture facilitates the penetration of salt into crevices and joints of heavy machines, promoting corrosion from within

Impacts on Heavy Machines:

Surface Deterioration:

The initial signs of corrosion are visible on the surface of heavy machines. Saltwater, in the form of sea spray, settles on the metal surfaces, leading to the formation of rust. This not only affects the aesthetics but also compromises the structural integrity of the equipment

Reduced Lifespan:

Continuous exposure to salt-laden air accelerates the corrosion rate, ultimately shortening the lifespan of heavy machines. The weakened structural components pose safety risks and increase maintenance costs

Excavator Preventive Measures:

Excavator Protective Coatings:

Applying corrosion-resistant coatings such as Nyalic can provide a protective barrier, shielding the metal surfaces from direct exposure to saltwater and slowing down the corrosion process
Nyalic Rust prevention system
Nyalic Rust prevention system

Regular Excavator Maintenance:

Implementing a proactive maintenance schedule that includes cleaning with Salt Away and inspecting heavy machines for early signs of corrosion is essential. Prompt removal of accumulated salt deposits can mitigate the long-term effects and both Salt Away and Nyalic can be your proven and trusted partner and save thousands of your money
While heavy machines are built to withstand rugged conditions, the corrosive impact of salt in coastal areas remains a formidable challenge. Understanding the electrochemical processes involved and adopting preventive measures can help industries mitigate the detrimental effects of salt-induced corrosion, ensuring the longevity and reliability of their heavy equipment