Corrosion Protection for Data Centers

As data centers scale to support the growing demands of AI infrastructure, edge computing, and hyperscale storage, their dependence on high-performance cooling systems has never been more critical. However, these sophisticated systems are vulnerable to the often-overlooked threat of corrosion. From humidity and airborne contaminants to aggressive cleaning agents and operational temperature changes, multiple factors can contribute to corrosion in mission-critical environments.

Corrosion within HVAC and liquid cooling systems can lead to decreased efficiency, system failures, and costly downtime. This is particularly concerning in high-density server environments, where even minor disruptions can impact performance and data integrity. Proactive measures are essential to prevent corrosion in data center cooling systems and protect the long-term viability of infrastructure investments.

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ZERUST® Solutions for Data Center Corrosion Control

ZERUST® offers a comprehensive selection of corrosion protection technologies specifically designed to safeguard electronic assets, cooling infrastructure, and sensitive components in data centers. With proven expertise in industrial corrosion control, ZERUST® helps mitigate the hidden risks of corrosion in both active systems and idle backup equipment.

Our Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technologies work by releasing invisible, non-reactive corrosion-inhibiting molecules that form a protective molecular layer on exposed metal surfaces. This protective layer does not interfere with airflow, electronics, or mechanical performance and is safe for use in enclosed environments, including those with live electrical systems.

Protection During Transport and Storage

Assembled IT equipment, such as industrial servers and racks, often passes through variable temperature and humidity conditions during storage or international shipment. ZERUST® provides advanced protection with VCI Films engineered for corrosion control and static-sensitive environments.

ZERUST® ICT®510-C VCI Film offers reliable corrosion protection for sensitive metal surfaces during packaging, storage, or shipment.
ZERUST® ICT®510-ATS Anti-Static VCI Film is ideal for protecting ESD-sensitive IT equipment while providing corrosion protection.
ZERUST® VCI Emitters & Diffusers can be placed inside equipment or server enclosures to maintain a corrosion-inhibiting atmosphere throughout the journey.
For sustainability-conscious operations, ZERUST® also offers environmentally friendly options, such as:
- Natur-VCI® Film: A fully compostable corrosion-inhibiting film.
- ICT®510-PCR30: A recyclable film with 30% post-consumer recycled content.

These packaging solutions are ideal for protecting assembled server racks, spare parts, and sensitive electronics during storage, transit, or deployment preparation.

For Active Cooling Systems

Data center cooling infrastructure operates under demanding environmental conditions. Corrosion inside glycol loops, on coils, or within sealed control cabinets can compromise performance and reliability. ZERUST® offers tailored corrosion protection solutions for active cooling systems to help maintain operational integrity.

Axxatec™ HST-M100 stabilizes pH and prevents internal corrosion and pitting in closed-loop glycol and chilled-water systems.
ZERUST® VCI Diffusers & Capsules Emit protective vapor inside CRAC cabinets and control boxes without interfering with airflow or electronics. Electronics-safe and residue-free.
Axxanol™ 718-ESS Spray applies a non-conductive, corrosion-inhibiting film to coils, pipe fittings, and exposed electronics, even while systems remain energized.
ZERUST® Hydrotesting Additives Prevent rust during hydrostatic testing of cooling loops by inhibiting corrosion inside pipes and tanks prior to commissioning.

These active system solutions work together to support continuous uptime, extend equipment life, and ensure optimal thermal performance in high-demand environments.

For Idle & Backup Systems

Assembled computer racks and server units often sit in storage or staging environments before deployment, where fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels can initiate corrosion. ZERUST® provides effective solutions to safeguard these idle assets and ensure they remain in optimal condition until installation.

ZERUST® VCI Films & Packaging shield metal surfaces and components within server racks from corrosion during storage, transit, or staging.
ZERUST® VCI Emitters & Diffusers maintain a corrosion-inhibiting atmosphere inside sealed or enclosed server cabinets without leaving residue or impacting electronics.

These solutions help prevent degradation of critical IT equipment, allowing data centers to confidently store and deploy computer systems with minimal risk of corrosion-related issues.

ZERUST® delivers proven, scalable solutions for corrosion protection for data centers, supporting reliable operation across all stages of infrastructure deployment, from transport and storage to active service and long-term standby. By integrating corrosion inhibitors into your data center protection strategy, you can significantly reduce the risk of failure, lower maintenance costs, and ensure uninterrupted system performance. Trust ZERUST® to help you prevent corrosion in data center environments with tailored solutions backed by decades of industry expertise.