Renewable energy power generation facilities face increasing environmental and economic pressures, demanding higher standards to maximize power and efficiency. ZERUST® is addressing these challenges by introducing advanced corrosion prevention solutions tailored to the specific needs of each facility. Whether it’s hydroelectric power, wind power, solar power, biomass energy, or geothermal power, ZERUST® understands the diverse range of corrosion challenges and offers innovative solutions.

Hydroelectric plant

Hydroelectric Power Plants

Oxide, pitting, crevice, and galvanic corrosion are persistent issues in hydroelectric power plants, whether they utilize impoundment, diversion, or pumped storage methods. Specific environmental conditions, such as poor water quality and high sediment levels, can accelerate these forms of corrosion by introducing abrasive particles and corrosive contaminants. Gearbox components, exposed to such harsh conditions, are particularly vulnerable. Axxanol™ 707C VCI oil additive is compatible with engine, gearbox, and hydraulic oils when used as instructed. It is mixed with new, respective, approved lubricating oils, the VCI oil additive emits corrosion-protective vapor-phase molecules into the void spaces and migrates to these exposed surfaces, thus offering corrosion protection for up to 2 years. Additionally, Axxanol™ 707C VCI oil additive does not intentionally contain barium or heavy metals and complies with Global Automotive Declarable Substance, TSCA, RoHS, and REACH SVHC requirements.

Wind turbine gearbox

Wind Power Systems

Atmospheric corrosion, driven by humidity and condensation, poses a significant threat to critical wind turbine components such as the nacelle, gearbox and their components. Coastal environments, with high salt content, high-altitude locations, fluctuating temperatures and lower air pressure significantly influence corrosion rates. Non-coastal environments are still subject to atmospheric corrosion, in which the changes in temperature and humidity cause condensation influencing corrosion and increasing its rate. ZERUST®’s VCI technology and VCI Emitters provide targeted corrosion protection solutions for hard-to-reach enclosed spaces. They protect metals in hard-to-reach areas of control panels, electrical cabinets, as well as other enclosed spaces like nacelles from corrosion, even when they are in operation. They are safe for electronics, odorless*, non-toxic*, residue-free, and designed to work in restricted spaces. Once removed, the VCI will dissipate from the metal surfaces, allowing immediate painting, welding, or further processing. Furthermore, Vapor Capsule VCI emitter diffusers protect multiple metal types from rust and tarnish for up to 1 or 2 years, depending on the capsule model, in a sealed enclosure.

Close up rows array of polycrystalline silicon solar cells or photovoltaic cells in solar power plant turn up skyward absorb the sunlight from the sun

Solar Power Systems

Changes in weather is not only a concern for units facing atmospheric corrosion. Components exposed to the environment, such as PV arrays, frames, mounting hardware, electrical contacts, and connectors, require robust corrosion management solutions. Environmental factors like UV radiation and temperature fluctuations can accelerate degradation and compromise performance.  ZERUST® offers solutiona which can be applied to the solar panel structures to protect the components exposed such as the panel frames, mounting hardware. Axxanol™ Z-Maxx Series offers hard-working anti-corrosion lubrication grease for high-temperature range applications that are ideal for protecting bare-metal parts and components of machinery and equipment in extreme weather and salt-air conditions for up to 1 year outdoors and 3 years indoors. Use Axxanol™ Spray-G to safely protect machinery, equipment, other large metal assets, and more for up to 1 year when stored outside or for up to 2 yearsThese solutions are specifically designed for the long-term outdoor preservation of metal components, ensuring the reliability and longevity of solar power systems even under extreme conditions.

biomass facility

Biomass Facilities

In biomass facilities, multi-metal, ferrous, and non-ferrous corrosion inhibitors play a crucial role in managing corrosion in the biomass energy steam generation systems. Common corrosive acids in these environments include sulfuric acid from sulfur compounds, acetic acid from biomass decomposition, and carbonic acid formed from dissolved carbon dioxide. ZERUST® ZAK-M22 Vapor Capsule effectively neutralized contaminants as it diffuses invisible, odorless, and non-toxic ZERUST® VCI molecules that quickly settle onto exposed metal surfaces inside an enclosure. Furthermore, ZAK-M22 Vapor Capsule protects multiple metal types from rust and tarnish for up to 2 years, depending on the environment in a sealed enclosure. ZERUST®’s expertise ensures the right solutions are implemented to align with existing equipment and processes because the team works with you and your biomass energy facility to assess the system and corrosion and arrive or make to the best solution. Protective coatings for pipes, boilers, and other exposed equipment are specifically designed to withstand the acidic conditions and high temperatures typical of biomass operations, ensuring durability and efficiency.

geothermal facility

Geothermal Power Plants

Geothermal fluids, with their high salinity, dissolved gases like carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, and elevated temperatures, can aggressively corrode critical components such as well casings, separators, turbines, and heat exchangers. The high mineral content of these fluids also accelerates scaling, which can exacerbate corrosion. ZERUST®/EXCOR® provides a comprehensive range of VCI solutions specifically designed to protect these components, particularly heat exchangers, from these threats, ensuring reliable and long-lasting performance in the harsh conditions of geothermal operations.

The Cost of Corrosion

When it comes to corrosion prevention, ZERUST® is a trusted partner for renewable energy operations worldwide, ensuring the reliability, safety, and sustainability of power generation systems. If you’re curious to calculate the cost of corrosion in your facility, explore our corrosion cost calculator and discover how ZERUST® can make a difference.

The cost of corrosion in renewable energy facilities is significant, with an estimated annual loss of $27.7 billion in 2017, according to the white paper “Corrosion Reduction in Power Distribution” by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This figure does not include structural integrity issues or safety hazards, further highlighting the importance of effective corrosion management strategies to avoid such consequences of corrosion.

ZERUST® offers a comprehensive suite of corrosion management solutions designed to address these challenges across diverse energy systems such as, biomass energy, . From volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCIs) and cleaning solutions to protective coatings, shrink films, and chemical inhibitors, ZERUST® provides tailored strategies to protect both ferrous and non-ferrous, as well as combined metal components, such as electric panels, in a wide variety of environmental conditions. By safeguarding critical components, ZERUST® helps facilities operate more efficiently, reduce maintenance costs, and extend equipment lifespan.

Close