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VCI Anti-Corrosion Packaging

What Is VCI Packaging? Film, Paper & How It Works

VCI — Volatile (or Vapour) Corrosion Inhibitor — packaging protects metal from rust by releasing inhibitor molecules into a sealed space that settle on the surface and form an invisible protective layer. It is the standard way to ship machined parts, tools and assemblies rust-free. This guide explains how VCI works, the difference between VCI film and VCI paper, and when to use each.

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VCI Film·VCI Paper·Vapour-Phase Inhibitor·Export-Grade·Manufactured by BENZ
How It Works

An Invisible Molecular Layer That Travels With the Metal.

VCI materials are impregnated with corrosion-inhibiting compounds that slowly vaporise inside a closed package. Those molecules fill the enclosed air and settle onto every exposed metal surface — including recesses and bores a coating could never reach — forming a microscopic protective layer that interrupts the electrochemical reaction that causes rust. When the part is unwrapped the layer dissipates, leaving the metal clean, dry and ready to use with no degreasing step. For an exporter that operational simplicity is as valuable as the protection itself.

Because it works through the air rather than as a barrier alone, VCI is ideal for the sealed, humid environment of a shipping container, where machined surfaces would otherwise corrode over a long voyage. BENZ manufactures the VCI film and paper itself, so the grade and inhibitor are matched to the metal and the route rather than bought off a shelf — and on a machine it is specified alongside the DIN 55473 desiccant that dries the surrounding air, the two working together to defeat container rain.

VCI Film vs VCI Paper

MaterialWhere it fits
VCI FilmFlexible plastic film for wrapping, bagging and lining. Best for large assemblies, full machines and container liners; also a moisture barrier.
VCI PaperInhibitor-impregnated paper for wrapping and interleaving individual parts, tools and components. Breathable, clean and easy to handle.
Use film whenYou are enclosing a whole machine or assembly, lining a container, or need the wrap to double as a moisture barrier.
Use paper whenYou are wrapping or interleaving smaller parts, spares, tools or stacked components where a breathable, contact wrap suits.
Use both / add desiccantOn a crated export machine, VCI on the metal plus DIN 55473 desiccant in the sealed barrier gives the most complete rust defence.

BENZ VCI & Corrosion Range

Manufactured in-house and specified to your metal and route.

VCI Film
Wrapping, bagging and container-liner film. VCI film ›
VCI Paper
Inhibitor paper for parts and interleaving. VCI paper ›
Desiccant vs VCI
When to use each, and why machines need both. Compare ›
Container Desiccant
DIN 55473 desiccant that dries the air around the metal. Desiccants ›
Preventing Rust in Shipping
The three-layer method for container rain. Guide ›
Barrier Foil Packing
Near-impermeable envelope for the longest routes. Barrier ›

Need VCI Protection for an Export Shipment?

BENZ manufactures the VCI film and paper and specifies it — with the right DIN 55473 desiccant — to your metal and route. Send the parts or machine and destination for a specification and quote.

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BENZ Packaging consistently provides reliable and efficacious Corrosion Prevention & Protective Packaging Solutions to clients worldwide.

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