It has long been common practice to coat raw metal parts with heavy oil or grease for transport. However, prior to painting, welding or assembly, cleaning in specialised washing and degreasing systems is then necessary. This process is not only energy-intensive, but also leaves behind hazardous waste that must be disposed of. An alternative is VpCI packaging.
By switching to VpCI packaging from Cortec, plants can completely skip the washing process. The parts arrive clean and ready for production, which immediately reduces energy consumption and waste. At the same time, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that would otherwise be released during cleaning are eliminated.
The switch to VpCI packaging does not only have ecological benefits. Since the parts can be integrated directly into the production process, lead time is significantly reduced. This leads to more efficient production and can further lower overall costs. In addition, the need to handle hazardous chemicals is eliminated, which improves occupational safety in the facilities.
EcoCortec, Cortec Corporation’s European production plant, operates on a circular model with its own recycling system to prevent waste. The site in Beli Manastir, Croatia, produces environmentally compatible VpCI corrosion protection packaging for worldwide export.
How the technology works
VpCI technology forms a microscopic vapour layer on metal surfaces to prevent corrosion inside the packaging. When unpacked, the vapour dissipates completely without leaving a film or residue. The parts arrive clean and ready for immediate welding, painting or assembly, making chemical washing systems redundant.
The portfolio includes VpCI films and bags in various sizes – from small top-closure bags for nuts and bolts to heavy-duty films for large industrial equipment. The range also includes products with a PCR (post-consumer recycled) content as well as fully biodegradable and compostable films.
Cortec's VpCI papers offer recyclable and fully recoverable protection for individual packaging, component interleaving, and layer separation. Options include crepe, reinforced, grease-resistant, and ESD-safe paper, as well as alternatives to conventional wax or polyethylene coatings that act as a moisture barrier. For additional protection in confined or harsh environments, VpCI emitters and foam inserts provide targeted corrosion inhibition alongside cushioning and desiccant effects. Options such as the USDA-certified BioPad offer highly effective protection through bio-based non-wovens.
Source: Cortec Europe
