Corrosion is the deterioration of a metal through chemical or electrochemical reactions with its environment. What you recognize as rust on machinery and even everyday items like lawn care and kitchen equipment is the result of a costly chemical reaction called corrosion. Corrosion can occur when two different types of metal are placed against each other. For example, if an aluminum part and a steel part are fastened together, corrosion can occur if the metals are left untreated. Also known as galvanic corrosion, this chemical reaction can create significant safety concerns and costs for the U.S. economy.

There are both chemical and physical causes of corrosion. Corrosion commonly occurs when metal reacts with another substance, such as a different type of metal, dirt, bacteria, etc. Additional factors that can create corrosion (such as rust) include electrochemical processes, temperature changes, physical stress, and the oxidation of air and moisture. Additional factors may influences that accelerate or impact corrosion. Conductivity: Metals with higher electrical conductivity promote the flow of electrons, which can speed up the corrosion process when different metals are in contact. Electrolyte composition: The makeup of the surrounding electrolyte—such as its pH level, amount of salt, or presence of other corrosive agents—plays a major role in how quickly corrosion occurs. Temperature: Elevated temperatures typically increase the rate of corrosion reactions, including those caused by galvanic effects. Environmental conditions: High humidity, atmospheric pollutants, and exposure to harsh chemicals can further intensify corrosion rates. Understanding these causes helps explain why corrosion is such a persistent issue, especially when different metals are combined and exposed to challenging environments.

Galvanic corrosion occurs when dissimilar metals are electrically connected and exposed to a common electrolyte. Because the metals have different electrical potentials, the more anodic metal corrodes preferentially. Moisture, salt, road deicers, and other conductive contaminants can provide the electrolyte needed for the reaction.

Galvanic corrosion is more common than you might think, especially in environments where dissimilar metals are forced to mingle. For example, take a look at boats or ships: you’ll often find steel hulls fitted out with stainless steel or bronze hardware. When these different metals are exposed to seawater—a perfect electrolyte—the corrosion process is set in motion right at the metal junctions. You’ll spot the same problem in plumbing setups. Picture a copper pipe joined to a brass or galvanized steel fitting. When water passes through, the two metals, combined with moisture, create a recipe for galvanic corrosion over time. Fastening hardware is another trouble spot: bolts and screws made from a different metal than the panels or structures they're securing can be especially vulnerable, particularly outdoors or anywhere condensation gathers. The bottom line? Whenever metals with contrasting properties are paired up and moisture enters the equation, there’s a high risk for galvanic corrosion to start eating away at the connection.

To really grasp why metals corrode when paired together, it is helpful to understand the galvanic series. Think of the galvanic series as a ranking of metals based on how likely they are to give up electrons, especially when put in environments like seawater. On this list, metals are sorted from “most willing to corrode” at one end (the anodic, or active metals like zinc, aluminum, and magnesium) to “most stubbornly resistant” at the other (the cathodic, or noble metals like gold and platinum). Why does this matter? When two different metals touch—and add in a bit of moisture or some sort of electrolyte, like salty air or road de-icer—they can set up an electrical current between them. The more active (anodic) metal acts as the sacrificial lamb, losing electrons and corroding in the process. Meanwhile, the “nobler” metal (the cathode) relaxes and stays mostly untouched. The further apart two metals sit on the galvanic series, the bigger the difference in their corrosion potential—so pairing aluminum with stainless steel, for example, can quickly spell trouble for the aluminum part if left unprotected. In general, good practice is to pair metals close together on the galvanic series to keep corrosion at bay. Otherwise, you can wind up with the weaker metal deteriorating rapidly—wrecking joints, fasteners, or even structural components. This understanding forms the backbone of how we approach corrosion prevention—especially in tough, real-world applications like marine, automotive, and industrial environments.

Eck prevents all kinds of corrosion: Mag-chloride, Cal-chloride, Galvanic and Electrolysis. Additionally, it can replaces anti-seize products.

The best way to prevent corrosion from starting is to create a barrier between dissimilar metals, seal out moisture, AND has use zinc rich ingredients that act as a sacrificial anode absorbing corrosive energy. Eck meets all these requirements!

Eck creates a barrier between dissimilar metals and helps exclude moisture from the connection. Its zinc-rich formulation also uses zinc as a sacrificial metal.

Eck is designed for dissimilar-metal assemblies. The manufacturer specifically identifies aluminum with steel and aluminum with stainless-steel hardware among its applications and states that Eck can be used with all metals.

Eck has been rigorously tested in the field by many major trailer, truck and emergency vehicle OEM’s. Additionally, Eck meets OSHA and ACGIH standards. For more information on testing results, reach out to our team.

Applications can be sprayed, brushed, rolled or squeezed on. Eck 12 oz can covers approximately 18 sq ft and 32 oz quart covers approximately 110 sq ft.

No minimum mil build-up required.

Depending on the product format and application, Eck can be sprayed, brushed, rolled, or squeezed onto the surface. For aerosol application, thoroughly shake the can before use because the zinc powder and zinc dust can settle. A good shake or stir helps ensure consistent coverage and maximum corrosion protection.

Apply Eck into drilled holes, onto fasteners such as bolts and screws, and between dissimilar metal surfaces. Apply Eck behind hinges, latches, light assemblies, lock-rod mounts, rub rails, and other components mounted to the trailer. Apply enough product to allow it to extend slightly beyond the edges of the mounted component, creating a sealed barrier. Read all instructions, warnings, and MSDS before use.

Apply Eck into and around drilled holes, onto fastener threads, and between mating surfaces of dissimilar metals. Austin Hardware also recommends protecting exposed cut edges, the underside of fastener heads, and areas behind mounted components where moisture can enter or collect.

Absolutely! When corrosion occurs, it can cause paint to bubble or blister. Eck was designed to prevent this. In fact, three of the world’s largest commercial paint manufacturers tested and endorsed Eck. They routinely recommend Eck to their customers, which include truck, automobile, bus, and boat manufacturers.

Apply Eck before components are assembled or re-assembled so the product reaches surfaces that will become inaccessible afterward. Austin Hardware recommends applying it after drilling or machining and cleaning away metal shavings and debris, then coating drilled holes, exposed metal, fastener threads, the underside of fastener heads, and mating surfaces before final assembly.

Yes. Several customers use Eck every day to prevent corrosion on electrical connections. It works as a dielectric grease with corrosion-preventing ingredients.

Yes. Eck is intended for truck and trailer assemblies where dissimilar metals are joined.

Yes. Eck is dielectric, and the manufacturer specifically identifies electrical connectors as an application.

Yes. Eck is used in marine and other moisture-exposed applications where corrosion can occur between dissimilar metals.