White rust

As the effect of moisture is a fundamental requirement, seasonal influences (autumn and winter, frequent rainfall, mist and undershooting dew points because of low temperatures) play an important role. Also stacking freshly galvanised parts on wet grass, in an unsuitable position or lying flat on top of each other can lead to white rust if moisture is widely present. Even though well intentioned, covering galvanized steel parts, which are stored outside under plastic covers or sheets, can generally cause more harm than good as moist air accumulates under the covers and condensation is an ideal climate for white rust.

Long-term protection from white rust

Also, packaging is only reliable if it is undamaged and no moisture can enter the packaging. Problems with the formation of white rust is particularly likely when dealing with hot-galvanized bulk goods, such as screws or nails, which are stored in damp wooden boxes or open containers out in the open. The formation of white rust has no connection with the galvanization process, nor is it a measure of the quality of galvanization. It is much more an occurrence which is fundamentally dependent on the atmospheric conditions during storage or transportation of the freshly hot-galvanized parts.