In high-demand sectors such as automotive, aerospace, wind energy and defence, the integrity of metal components is non-negotiable. Corrosion not only compromises product quality but also drives up operational and logistics costs. VCI paper has become one of the most effective and versatile solutions for neutralising this risk in a clean, straightforward manner.
If you are looking for a broader technical perspective on the fundamentals of this technology, we recommend our complete guide to corrosion and anticorrosion packaging.
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What is anticorrosion VCI paper and how does it work?
VCI-treated paper (volatile corrosion inhibitor) is an active emission medium. The high-quality kraft paper substrate acts as a reservoir of organic chemical compounds which, through a sublimation process, continuously transition from solid to vapour, saturating the atmosphere inside the packaging.
Once the internal air is saturated, these inhibiting molecules are attracted to the surface energy of the metal and condense onto it, forming a monomolecular (nanoscopic) protective layer. Unlike physical coatings, this layer does not “seal” the metal but neutralises its electrochemical potential, inhibiting oxidation reactions even in the presence of moisture, oxygen and aggressive contaminants.
What truly differentiates this technology is its ability to diffuse. Released in vapour phase, the inhibitor reaches areas that oils and greases cannot, such as blind holes, internal threads, deep cavities and complex geometries, ensuring comprehensive protection for critical automotive or defence components.
From an operational efficiency perspective, the key advantage is that once the packaging is opened, the VCI dissipates without leaving residues. Parts can therefore go straight into assembly or welding without prior cleaning, eliminating the need for protective oils and cumbersome greases.
Types and formats of VCI paper: tailored technical solutions
At Inviker, our manufacturing and converting capabilities allow us to offer not just high-quality material, but a solution adapted to the real operating conditions of each plant. We supply every paper type in the thicknesses and grammages required to ensure optimum protection, converting the material into rolls of various widths, pre-cut sheets or special formats according to our customers’ logistical requirements.
Below is an overview of the key features and strengths of our range.
Standard VCI paper
Standard VCI paper is the uncoated technical solution for protecting ferrous and non-ferrous metals under controlled storage conditions. It offers good mechanical strength and effective protection in moderate environments.
Its main strengths are versatility and sustainability, as it is 100% recyclable and biodegradable.
It is ideal for use as interleaving between product layers or for direct wrapping of machined components. At Inviker, we manufacture it in various grammages and convert it into bespoke sheets or rolls, facilitating integration into manual packing stations where light weight and ease of cutting are critical for productivity.
Plastic-coated VCI paper
When environmental conditions are demanding – such as during overseas shipments or storage in areas with high condensation – plastic-coated VCI paper delivers superior performance.
This material combines the corrosion-inhibiting properties of the kraft paper layer with a polyethylene (PE) film that acts as an impenetrable physical barrier against moisture and water, extending the effectiveness of the VCI. Its reinforced structure provides high tear resistance, making it ideal for packing heavier or more complex components.
Remember that the plastic-coated side should face outwards, whilst the impregnated paper side remains in contact with the metal.
We supply this material in bespoke rolls or pre-cut sheets, specifying the material thickness according to the required duration of protection for each project.
Plastic-coated VCI paper in tube form
Specifically designed for sectors such as steelmaking and power transmission component manufacturing, VCI paper in tube form is a pre-formed variant that dramatically optimises processing times. Its key advantages are ergonomics and rapid application on cylindrical or elongated parts such as shafts, spindles and bars.
As a tubular format, it eliminates the need for manual cutting and overlapping, ensuring the corrosion inhibitor fully surrounds the part in a uniform manner.
Fabricamos este formato novedoso en diversos diámetros y longitudes, ofreciendo una alternativa a las fundas de plástico. Puedes profundizar en sus beneficios operativos en nuestro artículo sobre las ventajas del papel VCI en tubo.
VCI crepe paper
Creped VCI paper stands out for its excellent elasticity and cushioning performance, whilst retaining the benefit of being a 100% recyclable and sustainable material.
Thanks to its micro-creped structure, it can stretch to adapt to complex geometries, cavities and irregular surfaces. It is the material of choice for protecting corrosion-sensitive components with delicate finishes in sectors such as defence and aerospace, where precision is critical. It is also suitable as interleaving where greater thickness is required than standard VCI paper.
At Inviker, we convert VCI crepe paper into specific widths and tailored formats, ensuring the cushioning effect also protects components against minor mechanical impacts during handling.
Plastic-coated VCI crepe paper
This is our highest-performance solution for critical industrial environments. Plastic-coated creped VCI paper combines the mechanical adaptability of crepe paper with the total impermeability of a plastic barrier. It is the standard protection solution in machine tool, wind energy and steel industry applications.
Its key strength lies in maximum structural resistance, enabling it to withstand long-term storage or transport routes under adverse climate conditions without compromising its anticorrosion performance.
As manufacturers, we tailor the thickness and flexibility of the material so it can be used both for bulky packaging and for individual protection of high-value spare parts, always supplying it in the format (roll or sheet) that best fits your production line.
Not sure which VCI paper format is best suited to your components?
Each sector and industrial application has different requirements in terms of protection, logistics and sustainability.
At Inviker, we advise you on selecting the optimum solution for your product, process and transport environment.
Industrial applications and use cases: sector-specific protection strategies
Selecting the right VCI substrate depends both on the metallurgy of the part and on the aggressiveness of the logistics cycle. Thanks to our experience supplying solutions for high-responsibility environments, Inviker’s anticorrosion VCI paper integrates seamlessly into the workflows of the most demanding sectors.
Automotive and precision components
In the automotive industry, where stock turnover is high but tolerance for defects is zero, VCI paper is the standard for protecting brake discs, transmissions and engine components.
Application:
Commonly used for interleaving in transit boxes or for individually wrapping machined components that must reach the assembly line oil-free. Using bespoke VCI paper sheets enables rapid handling in semi-automated packing processes.
Machine tools and rail sector
Protecting critical elements such as linear guides, ball screws, shafts and bearings requires materials that can withstand weight and prevent direct metal-to-metal contact.
Application:
For long cylindrical parts, VCI paper in tube form offers unmatched operational efficiency, enabling ergonomic sleeving. For components with complex geometries or exposed threads, VCI crepe paper provides the flexibility needed to ensure the inhibitor reaches every recess.
Aerospace and defence
These sectors demand the highest standards of reliability for the long-term storage of critical spares and tooling. Protection must be effective for both ferrous metals and aluminium or copper alloys.
Application:
Plastic-coated VCI crepe paper is essential here, as it provides a reinforced physical barrier and a stable protective atmosphere for years, even under uncontrolled humidity conditions in hangars or remote storage facilities.
Wind energy and capital goods for export
Sea transport exposes components (such as yaw bearings or gearboxes) to highly corrosive saline atmospheres.
Application:
In these scenarios, anticorrosion VCI paper acts as the first active line of defence within a multi-layer packaging system. Combining plastic-coated VCI paper with other moisture control solutions in packaging ensures that large metal assemblies arrive at their destination in perfect condition, without the need for costly degreasing processes on arrival.
Intercontinental logistics and CKD (Completely Knocked Down)* flows
For companies exporting complete assembly kits, optimising space and weight is critical. Inviker’s VCI paper, supplied in optimised grammages and pre-cut formats, allows hundreds of small parts to be protected within a single container in a cost-effective and lightweight manner.
*CKD (Completely Knocked Down): a term originating in the automotive industry, where components are supplied from global vendors and assembled in the importing country. The practice is also used in other industrial sectors.
| Sector | Critical need | Recommended VCI format |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Line speed and cleanliness | Kraft VCI paper sheets |
| Machine tools | Protection of shafts and guides | VCI paper in tube |
| Steel industry | Tear resistance and moisture protection | Reinforced plastic-coated VCI paper |
| Aerospace and defence | Protection of delicate components | Plastic-coated VCI crepe paper |
| Wind energy | Saline atmospheres and export | Combination of plastic-coated VCI paper and desiccant bags |
Technical advantages of choosing Inviker’s VCI paper
Selecting the right material is only the first step; working with a partner who understands the criticality of components and the complexity of logistics flows is what makes the real operational difference. At Inviker, we combine surface chemistry innovation with flexible converting capabilities, delivering tangible benefits that directly impact your bottom line and the safety of your industrial processes.
- Multi-metal protection: our formulations are effective across a wide range of materials, including steel, iron, aluminium, copper and mixed alloys, avoiding the need for complex inventories.
- Safety and compliance: we develop VCI anticorrosion solutions that are completely nitrite-free, ensuring a safe working environment and compliance with the most stringent environmental regulations.
- Bespoke manufacturing and conversion: as specialists in converting, we supply material in exact grammages and formats (small or large rolls, pre-cut sheets or tubes), fully adapted to packing station ergonomics.
- Operational cost optimisation: the key competitive advantage lies in eliminating oils, greases and subsequent cleaning processes, reducing cycle times on assembly lines.
- Industrial sustainability: we promote the use of recyclable and biodegradable solutions (depending on format), enabling your packaging to align with your company’s circular economy policies.
If you are unsure whether paper is the most suitable substrate compared to other options, consult our comparison of VCI paper vs VCI plastic for your specific application, or explore more about strategies for moisture control in industrial packaging.
Do you need to optimise corrosion protection for your components?
At Inviker, we design protection systems. If you need to validate which VCI paper format delivers the best performance for your parts and transport conditions, our technical team is at your disposal.