FAQ’s
The Drayton Valley Rust Smith — Corrosion‑Control Program
- We pressure‑wash everything before maintenance. Won’t that wash your product off?
The coating bonds directly to the metal and stays in place after normal washing. Pressure washing removes dirt, salt, and loose contaminants, but it does not remove the film. Only a hot caustic degreaser will strip it. Regular washing actually extends coating life because it removes corrosive material that attacks both the coating and the steel.
- How long does the coating last?
The protection lasts a full 12‑month cycle under municipal conditions (winter salt, gravel roads, year‑round operation). High‑use winter units like plow trucks, salters benefit from a mid‑season touch‑up. The product has 288 hours of ASTM B‑117 salt‑fog resistance, demonstrating proven durability in harsh environments.
- Can we still do mechanical work after it’s applied?
Yes. The coating stays where it’s applied and does not interfere with mechanical work. It doesn’t drip, run, or contaminate brake components. If technicians need a clean area, it wipes off easily with a degreaser. The 200°C flash point ensures stability and safety around typical shop heat sources.
- Does it affect warranty or CVIP inspections?
No. The coating is safe under Alberta CVIP requirements and does not affect OEM warranties. It remains fully inspectable and is applied away from brake surfaces, exhaust components, and heat‑sensitive areas. The high flash point adds safety during inspections.
- Is it safe to use in our shop?
Yes. The product is not WHMIS‑controlled, has a 200°C flash point, and is non‑hazardous. It requires no special storage, ventilation, or disposal procedures. It is fully suitable for municipal shop environments.
- How long does the application take?
Most pickups and light‑duty units take about two hours. Larger equipment such as graders or plow trucks takes longer depending on buildup and access. Scheduling can be coordinated around fleet rotation to minimize downtime.
- What’s the long‑term benefit for us?
You reduce winter‑related failures, seized components, and premature frame corrosion. This leads to fewer repairs, easier inspections, and longer lifecycle on high‑value assets. The ASTM B‑117 rating confirms measurable, tested protection against salt exposure — the primary corrosion challenge for municipal fleets.
- What about Aluminum and Stainless Steel?
Aluminum and stainless don’t rust like carbon steel, but they absolutely corrode, just in different ways. Road salt, calcium chloride, and winter brine attack aluminum through pitting and oxidation, and stainless steel suffers from chloride‑induced corrosion. Our coating stops that by sealing the surface and preventing salt from sitting directly on the metal. It’s still one of the best ways to extend the life of aluminum and stainless components.
