Rust on zigzag mk3

[Paulwil]

Have the same happen with mine. I'm going to notify Petzl of the problem, in my view it is unacceptable given the price we pay for these devices and the fact we've had to endure three versions of this device the final version now rusts!

[Paulwil]

Here is my MK3 Zig Zag show the rust marks.

[Paulwil]

Here is the statement issued by Petzl u.k. distributor.

 

The Zillion and Zig Zag device links are made from stainless steel; this is not to say that the steel is stain proof, rather it is less resistant to stains, corrosion etc. If the device is stored damp or in a moist environment it is possible for corrosion to form. Water and moisture will collect/reside in indentations (for example the Petzl logo, or the corners of the links) and if left for any length of time corrosion may form. Given the nature of Arboreal work, it is highly likely that the device will come into contact with water and this is acceptable. However the device must be thoroughly dried prior to storage.

 

Corrosion is caused by the conditions in which the device is stored, rather than a defect in materials or manufacturing. Corrosion cannot form without the presence of water, therefore water must be present on the device or in the environment in which it is stored for this to occur.

 

The corrosion shown in your photo does not look too significant, however I would recommend you monitor this in line with your regular PPE inspections to ensure it does not become worse. If excessive corrosion is present, the device should be retired.

 

We certainly have not had a problem with corrosion on Zig Zags, however if you are concerned about a particular device, the best course of action is to return the device to your retailer who can forward it on to us for inspection.

[cornish wood burner]

There are many different grades of stainless steel with different compositions, different corrosion resistances, different properties and strengths. Improving one characteristic will come at the expense of another such as strength. Chromium protects the iron from corrosion, add molybdenum for marine enviroments where extra corrosion resistance is required. However this extra corrosion resistance not only comes at a higher financial price, it also comes with reduced mechanical properties such as strength and wear. Best to accept that you have the extra strength etc and do a little maintenance to prevent corrosion.

[cornish wood burner]

There are many different grades of stainless steel with different compositions, different corrosion resistances, different properties and strengths. Improving one characteristic will come at the expense of another such as strength. Chromium protects the iron from corrosion, add molybdenum for marine enviroments where extra corrosion resistance is required. However this extra corrosion resistance not only comes at a higher financial price, it also comes with reduced mechanical properties such as strength and wear. Best to accept that you have the extra strength etc and do a little maintenance to prevent corrosion.

 

Looking at Paulwil's picture I would have thought something like car polish/silicone/oil in the non contact areas such as in the stamped name will help repel water and stop the rust stains. Presumably you would want to keep away it from the rope contact areas but it should help your problem. That and store in a reasonably dry environment.

I can see the high strength stainless used would be superior to marine grade for this application but it needs a little TLC.