VCI Paper & Corrosion Protection Packaging

Corrosion protection packaging prevents rust and deterioration forming on ferrous metal parts during storage and transit. Rust can form rapidly on unprotected steel and cast iron — particularly in humid conditions, during sea freight, or in storage environments where temperature fluctuations cause condensation. Once rust forms on precision-machined surfaces or plated components it can make parts unusable and cause costly production delays.

Our corrosion protection range covers VCI anti-rust paper, VCI polythene products, silica gel desiccants, waxed kraft paper, and bitumen paper — providing a complete solution for protecting metal parts from corrosion at every stage of storage, handling, and transit. Call 02476 611234 for advice on the right corrosion protection for your application.

VCI Paper — The Most Widely Used Corrosion Protection for Metal Parts

VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) paper is kraft paper impregnated with corrosion-inhibiting chemicals that slowly release into the air around the packaged metal. The VCI molecules settle on metal surfaces and form an invisible, dry protective layer that blocks moisture and oxygen — stopping rust from forming without leaving any greasy or oily residue. Parts wrapped in VCI paper can be unwrapped and used immediately with no cleaning required.

We stock Vaportek VCI anti-rust paper in two grades:

• Standard VCI Paper — 900mm x 200m, 50gsm — suitable for most general corrosion protection applications. Ideal for wrapping machined parts, interleaving between stacked components, and lining boxes and crates for storage and transit. £91.67 per roll.
• Heavy Duty VCI Paper — 1000mm x 200m, 100gsm — double the thickness of the standard grade, providing both better VCI protection and greater physical protection for heavier or more abrasive parts. £73.20 per roll.

Silica Gel Desiccants

Silica gel desiccants absorb moisture from the air inside sealed packaging — reducing humidity levels and removing the conditions that cause rust and corrosion. Used in combination with VCI paper or VCI polythene for maximum protection, or alone for protecting non-ferrous metals and sensitive components where VCI chemicals are not suitable. Available in a range of sachet sizes for different packaging volumes. Browse our full silica gel range.

Waxed Kraft Paper & Bitumen Paper

For applications where moisture barrier protection is needed without VCI chemistry — such as crate lining, damp-proofing, or protecting non-ferrous metals — we stock waxed kraft paper and kraft union (bitumen) paper:

• Waxed Kraft Paper 900mm x 100m, 55gsm — wax-coated paper that repels water and moisture. Good for lining wooden crates and wrapping items that need protection from surface water and condensation.
• Kraft Union Paper 900mm x 100m, 120gsm — bitumen paper with a layer of tar sandwiched between two kraft paper layers, giving excellent waterproofing for crate lining and heavy-duty moisture protection applications.

VCI Paper vs Silica Gel — Which Do You Need?

VCI paper actively prevents corrosion by releasing inhibiting vapour molecules onto the metal surface. It's the right choice for ferrous metal parts (steel, cast iron) that need active rust prevention during storage or transit. The protection works within the package even without a complete seal.

Silica gel absorbs moisture from the air inside sealed packaging, reducing humidity. It doesn't directly prevent corrosion but removes the conditions that cause it. Best used in a completely sealed environment (bags, boxes, or crates with a vapour barrier) where it can maintain low humidity. Suitable for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, and for sensitive electronics and instruments.

For maximum protection — particularly for long sea freight transits or long-term storage — using VCI paper or polythene together with silica gel desiccants provides both active corrosion inhibition and humidity control. Call 02476 611234 to discuss the best combination for your specific application.

Frequently Asked Questions About VCI Paper

What does VCI stand for?

VCI stands for Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor. The "volatile" part means the corrosion-inhibiting chemicals slowly evaporate from the paper into the surrounding air, allowing them to settle on nearby metal surfaces and provide corrosion protection without direct contact.

Does VCI paper leave a residue on metal parts?

No — VCI paper leaves no greasy, oily, or waxy residue on metal parts. The protective molecular layer it deposits is invisible and dry, and parts can be used immediately after unwrapping without any cleaning.

How long does VCI paper protection last?

VCI paper typically provides effective protection for up to 24 months in correctly sealed packaging. In unsealed environments the VCI will dissipate more quickly. For long-term storage, using VCI paper inside sealed polythene bags or boxes gives the longest protection life.

What metals does VCI paper protect?

Our Vaportek VCI paper is formulated for ferrous metals — steel, cast iron, and other iron-based alloys. For non-ferrous or multi-metal applications a different VCI formulation may be required — call 02476 611234 for advice.

Can VCI paper be recycled?

Yes — VCI paper is recyclable along with standard paper and cardboard waste. The VCI chemicals are used in very small quantities and do not affect recyclability.

Call 02476 611234 for advice on the right corrosion protection packaging for your application, or browse all products in the range below.

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