How much does rust affect the total ownership cost?

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In the truck industry, steel is a fundamental component, but its inevitable corrosion creates challenges for companies striving for long-term profitability. A truck is not just a means of transportation, it also represents the face of your business. It is therefore crucial to maintain a high finish on the component surfaces, while resistance to wear and rust is of utmost importance.

Wear-resistant finishes – key to truck profitability and durability

Rust may seem like a minor issue, but it has a significant impact on the total cost of ownership. About 3% of the world’s total GDP is lost annually due to corrosion. Dealing with this problem requires careful consideration of surface finishing, which is not just about applying anti-corrosion agents and paint, but involves creating a surface that is both functionally resistant and visually appealing.

Choose the right finish

The surface finishing process is central to reducing corrosion and preventing wear and tear on steel components. Choosing the right surface finish is a strategic investment for your business. For trucks, high demands are placed on both functional properties and cosmetic characteristics. This means that choosing a lasting and sustainable surface finishing process is a complex and time-consuming task.

“Choosing the right surface finish is a strategic investment for your profitability”

To achieve the desired functional properties, surface finishing is carried out through several stages, which can of course increase costs. However, this investment pays off since the vehicle – from the assembly line – is better equipped against mechanical wear and stone chipping compared to components with simpler surface finishes.

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When it comes to the most exposed parts of a truck, the surface finish is a long-term investment. The right finish lowers the total cost of ownership by extending the life of components and reducing the need for repairs or replacements. In addition, a product with a retained finish has a positive impact on the resale value. 

World-class surface finishing – what is it and how is it done?

To ensure world-class corrosion protection with maximised wear resistance and a high finish, VBG’s steel parts undergo a sophisticated, multi-stage surface finishing process. It includes mechanical and chemical pre-treatment, EPD treatment for maximum barrier protection, and powder coating for a hard surface resistant to stone chippings and wear. This meticulous finishing process is not only an investment in the service life of the steel components, but also a strategy to increase the overall profitability of the truck by reducing maintenance costs and maintaining visual quality over time.

How to increase your profitability

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