HinderRUST Stops Ethanol Corrosion in Pumps, Tanks

HinderRUST Stops Ethanol Corrosion in Pumps, Tanks

Ethanol-blended fuels have become the norm, but they bring a hidden downside: corrosion. From pumps to storage, ethanol attracts moisture, degrades metals, and damages fuel systems over time. Fortunately, products like HinderRUST offer a practical way to protect equipment and extend its lifespan.

Ethanol fuel vapors are highly corrosive in pump rooms and confined spaces, specifically causing severe deterioration to steel, cast iron, and copper components in fuel storage sumps. Vapors, rather than liquid ethanol, often cause the most severe damage, creating flaky iron oxide that can damage pump casings and pipework.

Key Causes and Impact:

Newly Installed Ethanol Pump, Treated with HinderRUST to Prevent Corrosion from Ethanol.

• Acidic Vapors: Ethanol is hygroscopic (absorbs water), which can cause phase separation and water accumulation at the bottom of tanks. Microbes can thrive in this environment, producing acetic acid that creates corrosive vapors.
• Severe Corrosion: NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology studies showed rapid corrosion, losing as much as 1 millimeter of metal thickness per year on steel samples exposed to these vapors.
• Pump Room Equipment: Submersible pump casings, steel, and cast iron components in underground tank sumps are highly vulnerable.
• Material Damage: Copper tubing, commonly used in sumps, is subject to localized corrosion, and in severe cases, the damage causes leaks.
• System Failures: The corrosion can cause failures in, or leakage from, fuel storage tank systems, creating risks of fuel contamination.

If left unchecked, this corrosion can lead to leaks in gas storage tank systems and contaminated groundwater at some of the nation’s 500,000 service stations.

What Is HinderRUST?

HinderRUST is a corrosion inhibitor designed to protect metal surfaces from rust and oxidation. It creates a protective barrier on internal components, helping to prevent the damaging effects caused by ethanol-blended gasoline.

Benefits of Using HinderRUST

Using HinderRUST regularly can provide several key advantages:

Ethanol Pump 359 Days Post HinderRUST Treatment, with No Signs of Corrosion.

• Prevents rust formation: Coats metal surfaces to block moisture contact
• Extends equipment life: Protects tanks and sump pumps
• Reduces maintenance costs: Fewer repairs and part replacements

Other Means of Prevention and Mitigation:

• Use Fuel Additives: Utilizing fuel conditioners or stabilizers that prevent corrosion is highly recommended.
• Upgrade Infrastructure: Upgrading to ethanol-compatible materials for pipes, pumps, and seals is essential for long-term protection.
• Maintenance: Regular inspection of sumps and ensuring they remain properly sealed can reduce the risk of extensive corrosion.

Final Thoughts

Ethanol corrosion is a real and growing issue, but it’s manageable with the right approach. By incorporating HinderRUST into your regular maintenance routine, you can protect your fuel system, improve reliability, and avoid costly repairs.