What are the most effective strategies for preventing rust and corrosion on fleet vehicles?

Rust and corrosion are common enemies of fleet vehicles, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions, salted roads, or high humidity. They can damage the appearance, performance, and safety of your vehicles, as well as increase your maintenance and repair costs. Fortunately, there are some effective strategies that you can implement to prevent or reduce rust and corrosion on your fleet vehicles. Here are some of them:

1 Choose the right materials

Some metals are more prone to rust and corrosion than others, so choosing the right materials for your fleet vehicles can make a big difference. For example, stainless steel, aluminum, and galvanized steel are more resistant to rust and corrosion than carbon steel, iron, or copper. You can also opt for composite materials, such as fiberglass or plastic, that are not affected by rust and corrosion at all. If you are buying new vehicles, look for ones that have corrosion-resistant coatings or treatments on their metal parts.

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Clayton Guerrero

Comercial
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Realmente é muito importante definir a melhor solução para cada tipo de necessidade, material como aço inox certamente vai resolver em muito a corrosão, no entanto é preciso considerar o custo benefício, e analisar casos onde o produto transportado é o principal responsável pela corrosão, pois alguns produtos agridem o inox, hoje existem produtos específicos para limpeza e proteção de superfície, que garantem um ótimo custo benefício. Importante considerar que nada substitui a manutenção preventiva para aumentar a confiabilidade dos equipamentos.

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Cristiam Sepulveda

Flat bed expert
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Es importante saber cuál será la zona de trabajo de los equipos , puesto que en las zonas costeras hay más posibilidades de oxidación de los metales en las carrocerías y cuerpos externos del vehículo. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, se deben elegir equipos con mayor cantidad de aluminio o aceros inoxidables en su construcción para así evitar que la oxidación y corrosión afecte las estructuras de nuestros equipos y tener que hacer reparaciones que van a necesitar tener el equipo en el taller y esto nos genera pérdidas monetarias importantes en la flota

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2 Clean and dry your vehicles regularly

Another important strategy to prevent rust and corrosion on your fleet vehicles is to clean and dry them regularly. Dirt, dust, mud, salt, and other contaminants can accumulate on the surface and in the crevices of your vehicles, creating a conducive environment for rust and corrosion to form. You should wash your vehicles with mild soap and water at least once a week, or more often if they are exposed to harsh conditions. You should also dry your vehicles thoroughly after washing them, using a soft cloth or a blower. Pay special attention to the undercarriage, the wheel wells, the door hinges, and the trunk lid, where rust and corrosion are more likely to occur.

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Clayton Guerrero

Comercial
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Entendo que a lavagem é uma parte importante do processo para garantir a remoção das sujidades, só não esquecer de verificar se foi eficaz e considere aplicar algum produto de proteção, evitando assim incrustração e facilitar a próxima lavagem, considere definir uma periodicidade, pode ser em distância ou tempo de utilização

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3 Apply protective products

Another way to prevent rust and corrosion on your fleet vehicles is to apply protective products that create a barrier between the metal and the elements. These products can include waxes, sealants, paints, primers, or anti-corrosion sprays. You should apply these products according to the manufacturer's instructions, and reapply them as needed. Some of these products may require professional application, while others can be done by yourself. You should also inspect your vehicles regularly for any signs of damage or wear on the protective layer, and repair them as soon as possible.

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Odair J.Silva

Analista Técnico Sênior | Gestão de Ativos Digitais | Especialista em Análise de Vibração (Mobius CAT-II) na WEG Digital | Indústria 4.0 & IoT para Eficiência Industrial.
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Precisamos tomar cuidados somente com os componentes de borracha ou plásticos, pois alguns produtos de proteção pode agredir, ressecar, diminuir a vida util.

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4 Store your vehicles properly

The way you store your fleet vehicles can also affect their susceptibility to rust and corrosion. You should avoid parking your vehicles in damp, dark, or poorly ventilated areas, where moisture and oxygen can promote rust and corrosion. You should also avoid parking your vehicles under trees, near sprinklers, or on grass, where sap, water, or acid can damage the paint and the metal. If possible, park your vehicles indoors, in a garage or a shed, where they are protected from the weather and the sun. If you have to park your vehicles outdoors, cover them with a breathable and waterproof cover that fits snugly.

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5 Monitor and treat any issues

Finally, you should monitor and treat any issues that may arise with rust and corrosion on your fleet vehicles. Even with the best prevention strategies, you may still encounter some spots or patches of rust and corrosion on your vehicles over time. You should check your vehicles regularly for any signs of rust and corrosion, such as discoloration, bubbling, flaking, or cracking. You should also look for any leaks, holes, or cracks that may allow water or air to enter the metal parts. If you find any issues, you should treat them as soon as possible, before they spread or worsen. You can use sandpaper, wire brushes, or rust converters to remove the rust and corrosion, and then apply a primer and a paint to seal the area. You can also consult a professional mechanic or a body shop for more extensive or complicated repairs.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the most effective strategies for preventing rust and corrosion on fleet vehicles?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Choose the right materials

2 Clean and dry your vehicles regularly

3 Apply protective products

4 Store your vehicles properly

5 Monitor and treat any issues

6 Here’s what else to consider

Fleet Operations

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What are the most effective strategies for preventing rust and corrosion on fleet vehicles?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Choose the right materials

2 Clean and dry your vehicles regularly

3 Apply protective products

4 Store your vehicles properly

5 Monitor and treat any issues

6 Here’s what else to consider

Fleet Operations

Rate this article

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