Cortec® Corporation produces a suite of innovative packaging materials that are silent but powerful tools to protect metal goods from corrosion. Sold under the VpCI® brand, these innovative flexible packaging solutions use Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibiting Technology to safeguard metal components during the vulnerable period of shipment, when extreme humidity changes can put metals at risk for corrosion.
Consumers often do not realise that products they depend on every day contain metal parts in need of corrosion protection before (and sometimes after) hitting the market. For example, automobiles are made of numerous metal components that may be manufactured in one part of the world and assembled in another. During the export trip, these parts need corrosion protection from extreme environmental conditions and humidity swings. Electronics, musical instrument strings, or expensive high tech medical diagnostic equipment such as MRIs or ultrasounds are other devices that could benefit from corrosion protection.
Cortec’s VpCI® packaging suite avoids the downsides of many traditional corrosion protection methods through Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor technology. VpCI® molecules incorporated into a packaging material work by evaporating into the air and forming a protective molecular layer on all metal surfaces inside an enclosed package. When the component reaches its destination, it can simply be unwrapped and used immediately without additional cleaning or degreasing. This is unlike many traditional methods, such as those in the auto industry, where parts are often dipped in petroleum-based rust preventatives that require cleaning and proper disposal before use of the part. In contrast to these commonly hazardous materials, VpCI® packaging typically is fully recyclable, fully repulpable (for most VpCI® papers), and non-toxic to use.
In thinking about these advantages, Jay Zhang, Cortec® Technical Sales Manager, commented, “The best example of success is what Cortec® did for automotive companies that assemble vehicles in [the] US.” Indeed, Cortec® VpCI® packaging has added significant value to the manufacturing process by allowing auto component makers to successfully implement build-ahead programs and ship auto parts all over the world with safe and easy to use asset preservation packaging.
Cortec’s innovative VpCI® packaging suite offers the flexibility of many shapes, sizes, and formats to suit specific needs. For those shipping sensitive electronic components, Cortec’s EcoSonic® ESD Paper powered by Nano VpCI® provides both corrosion and electrostatic discharge protection. When extra moisture protection is the concern, EcoShield® VpCI®-144 Super Barrier Paper serves as a recyclable alternative to polyethylene and waxed papers.
For automobile manufacturers, one-inch-square (6.45 cm2) VpCI®-143 paper emitters provide a convenient way to insert corrosion protection into the tiny corners of automobile components. Protection for musical instrument strings can even be devised by converting standard VpCI®-144 paper into small envelopes.
Other flexible packaging options include Cortec’s bestselling VpCI®-126 film, convertible into multiple sizes and shapes: from small zip-lock bags for small parts, to large shrouds that fit expensive medical diagnostic equipment. Cortec® even offers Eco-Corr Film®, a biodegradable corrosion inhibiting film that can be made with ESD properties.
Other VpCI® foams, emitters, and desiccant combinations add extra protection to the packaging suite as needed.This variety of packaging options demonstrates Cortec’s attention to meeting specific customer needs. Zhang notes, “What most of [our] customers liked is that Cortec® is customer focused and solution oriented rather than [focused on] selling products. Each customer is different and each challenge a customer is facing for corrosion control and prevention varies. Cortec® and its distributors take the time to understand customer requirement and expectation, and come up with effective solutions each time and every time. The best solution might include existing products or specifically developed products for the particular customer and application. Cortec® maintains its ability with the help of its in-house R&D, ISO Certified Lab, and vertically integrated manufacturing.”
Cortec’s versatile VpCI® packaging options are safe and easy to use, cutting down labor and disposal costs and providing effective protection for valuable parts in multiple industries. By offering these innovative packaging solutions, Cortec® has had an unseen hand in protecting many consumer good components from corrosion and will continue to silently fill a critical need in the packaging industry.
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