Frequently asked questions and all answers

What does VCI mean?
V = Volatile
C = Corrosion
I = Inhibitor

How do VCI materials work?

The 3 stages of the VCI process

Do VCIs present a danger for the user?
There are a wide variety of VCI products available on the market based on differing active-agent systems. These systems use differing chemicals and are of varying strength.

The VCI products marketed by BRANOpac are not classified as being dangerous products or formulations in accordance with the Dangerous Goods Act and respective EU regulations. The substances contained in the products are at a level which is below that relevant for classification. More information is provided with each product in the form of safety details.

Can VCI active agents be seen, smelt or felt?
The active agents are neither visible nor capable of being felt. Their smell is largely dependent on the active-agent system being used. Papers and chips marketed by BRANOpac emit a smell that is typical for such a product. Smell type and intensity, however, provide neither indication as to the amount of active agent present, nor to its effectiveness.

Why are there so many different types?
The number of applications for VCI products is extremely varied. Vehicle manufacturers and suppliers, mechanical engineering companies, the electronics industry and a wide range of other industries use VCI products. This represents a wide variety of differing metals to be protected.

Products currently available on the market for the protection of multi-metals always represent a compromise as to the level of protection possible. Multi-metal protection paper usually provides only limited protection for castings. In contrast, BRANOrost-Papier R offers reliable protection against corrosion for both steel and castings. It is for this reason that we provide a wide range of corrosion-protection systems for the protection of differing metals and metal combinations.

What sort of distances can the active agents bridge?
The distance that can be bridged by the active-agents is always dependent on the relationship between VCI product and packaging volume, chemical system and the time allowed for build up of the protective atmosphere.

The following can be taken as a general rule for BRANOrost R: Full protection is achieved after 15 minutes at distances of 30 cm (at 20°C). Distances can be increased for longer build-up times.

How long does it take for a protective atmosphere to be built up?
The answer to this one varies according to manufacturer and system implemented. Generally speaking, build-up times for open-pored carrier materials such as paper and chips are shorter than for closed materials such as films. The higher the temperature, the faster is build-up.

The general rule for BRANOrost is (at a temperature of 20°C and for distances of approx. 30 cm):

What sorts of protection periods are possible?
This depends largely on the manufacturer and the system implemented. For BRANOrost the general rule is: Up to 3 years

The general rule for FERROGARD/ MULTIguard is: Up to 18 months for steel and iron. Up to 12 months for castings

The general rule for BRANOfol is: Up to 12 months

More specific statements can be given when more information is known about the intended application!

Can already-present corrosion damage be repaired using VCI active agents?
Metals already subjected to the corrosive process are offered a certain amount of protection by VCI materials. Corrosion already present cannot be repaired.

Are VCI corrosion-protection materials compatible with corrosion-protection oils?
Products marketed by BRANOpac are compatible with each other. If corrosion-protection oils from other manufactures are to be implemented, compatibility has to be examined. Our application-engineering department would be happy to offer you further assistance.

Do the active agents cause a change in the surfaces of other materials such as plastic?
This depends very heavily on what products come into contact with which plastics. In some cases a change in surface colour or texture can be observed.

b) For some finish systems an adverse effect may be caused under extreme climatic conditions, this is especially true for lighter colours.

What needs to be taken into account when working with VCI materials?
Special storage restrictions or personal protective equipment are not necessary for VCI material products.

Nevertheless, general protection and hygiene measures should be implemented: Ensure the area is well ventilated. Do not eat or drink while working with VCIs. Do not store food in the work area. Wash hands and face after work.

How are VCI products stored?
In order to prevent active-agent loss, products should be stored in a cool, dry place and in their original packaging. Packaging already opened should be sealed wherever possible following work. The top sheet or outer roll should be disposed of following extended storage periods.

What should be taken into account when packaging materials?
Packaging

Unpacking
If items are unpacked during customs controls, they should be tightly re-sealed as quickly as possible. Because corrosion protection is based on a dry process, items are ready for use immediately.