INDUSTRY INSIGHT
A CORROSION PROTECTION SAFETY NET FOR SHIPPING NEW VEHICLE SENSORS
In today’ s world, sensors are ubiquitous. A typical vehicle can contain over a dozen engine sensors monitoring pressure, position, and more, while the entire vehicle might utilize up to 70 sensors to enhance safety and efficiency. Many of these sensors contain electronic components or metal parts that, despite being constructed with corrosion-resistant materials, can experience increased corrosion during shipping. Fortunately, appropriate packaging materials can easily provide supplementary protection, ensuring that sensors arrive to customers in optimal condition
Sensor corrosion is a significant risk during shipping due to unpredictable environmental changes. Temperature fluctuations can cause humidity to condense within packaging, accelerating corrosion. Sea transport further elevates this risk with prolonged journeys and increased exposure to airborne chlorides. Even corrosion-resistant metals are susceptible under these harsh conditions.
Protecting sensors from corrosive shipping conditions offers significant assurance to manufacturers. Utilizing Cortec ® VpCI ® packaging provides a simple and effective solution. These materials release Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitors that create an unseen protective molecular layer on metal surfaces within the enclosed package. This protection persists as long as the packaging remains sealed. Upon removal, the same vapor action allows the protective molecules to dissipate naturally,
eliminating the need for cleaning or degreasing, unlike traditional rust preventatives. Many VpCI ® packaging options are suitable for the diverse range of ferrous and yellow metals commonly found in vehicle sensors, offering broad protection.
Cortec ® offers a range of VpCI ® packaging solutions for varying protection needs. For basic protection, CorShield ® VpCI ®-146 paper can be used as interleaving or wrapping. VpCI ®-126 Blue bags provide enhanced moisture protection and can be sealed in various ways, including a resealable zipper. For electronic components requiring both corrosion and electrostatic discharge( ESD) protection, EcoSonic ® VpCI ®-125 HP Permanent ESD Bags are available.
For particularly corrosive or lengthy shipping, consider adding Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor pouches for extra protection. Cor-Pak ® 1-MUL Pouches protect 1 ft ³( 28 L). Desicorr ® VpCI ® Pouch offers dual action by combining desiccant for moisture absorption with active corrosion protection.
The protective packaging possibilities for vehicle sensors are countless and convenient, making it easy to provide peace of mind for manufacturers as they ship parts to assembly plants and auto parts suppliers. If you have already had a negative experience with sensor corrosion or want to make sure it never happens, be sure to contact Cortec ® today for guidance through the packaging selection process.
aBr WORDS IN ACTION 12 JUNE 2025