1. Storage Precautions
(1) Choose a suitable storage site
Prioritize indoor warehouses (dry, well-ventilated, free from acid/alkali fumes, e.g., avoid proximity to chemical storage areas or boiler rooms). If stored outdoors, select a high, well-drained area (prevent water accumulation under the steel) and cover with acid- and alkali-resistant waterproof tarpaulins (avoid ordinary plastic sheets, which trap moisture and cause condensation).
Keep away from sources of pollution: Do not store near salt piles (coastal areas), coal yards, or places with high sulfur dioxide (e.g., industrial exhaust outlets)-these substances will accelerate localized corrosion.
(2) Stacking requirements
Use dry, non-corrosive supports (e.g., wooden sleepers, galvanized steel beams) to elevate the steel 10–15cm above the ground (prevent contact with ground moisture or dirt). Avoid using rusty or wet supports (they may cause stain corrosion).
Stack by specification: Separate Q235NH from other steels (e.g., ordinary carbon steel, stainless steel) to prevent galvanic corrosion (different metals in contact with moisture form a battery, accelerating rust).
Control stacking height: For plates, the stack height should not exceed 1.5m (to avoid deformation under pressure); for profiles (e.g., angles, channels), use separators between layers to ensure ventilation (prevent moisture retention between overlapping surfaces).
(3) Surface protection during storage
Do not remove the original protective film/paper immediately: The factory-applied anti-rust film or kraft paper (coated with anti-rust oil) should be kept intact until use. If the film is damaged, repair it with special anti-rust tape (avoid ordinary adhesives, which leave residues that block patina formation).
Avoid frequent handling: Repeated moving can scratch the surface or damage the protective film, creating corrosion points. If handling is necessary, use soft slings (e.g., rubber-coated steel cables) instead of bare steel hooks.
2. Transportation Precautions
(1) Vehicle and packaging preparation
Use closed or covered transport vehicles (e.g., container trucks, tarp-covered flatbed trucks). For open flatbeds, ensure the tarpaulin is tightly sealed (especially in rainy or coastal areas) to prevent rain, salt spray (coastal transportation), or road dust from adhering to the surface.
Pad the vehicle compartment: Lay dry wooden boards or waterproof rubber mats on the compartment floor to isolate the steel from the vehicle (prevent moisture or rust on the compartment from contaminating Q235NH).
(2) Fixing and anti-collision
Secure the steel firmly: Use galvanized steel straps or soft ropes to fix the load (avoid using rusty straps, which may leave rust stains). Ensure there is no looseness during transportation (to prevent friction between steel pieces that scratches the surface).
Avoid mixing with incompatible goods: Do not transport Q235NH with wet goods (e.g., fresh produce), chemicals (acids, alkalis), or salt (for coastal transportation)-leakage of these substances will cause severe surface corrosion.
(3) Environmental adaptation during transportation
Coastal or rainy areas: Strengthen waterproofing (e.g., add a second layer of tarpaulin) and check the tarp for damage during stops. After transportation, immediately wipe off any salt spray or rainwater on the surface with a dry cloth.
High-temperature/humid areas: Ensure the load has gaps for ventilation (avoid sealed stacking) to reduce condensation (moisture trapped between steel pieces causes localized rust).
3. Post-Storage/Transportation Inspection
After unpacking or unloading, promptly inspect the surface: If there is light rust (thin, uniform), it can be wiped off with a dry wire brush (this does not affect subsequent patina formation). If there is localized heavy rust (thick, peeling) or acid/alkali stains, use a neutral rust remover to clean the area (avoid strong acids/alkalis, which damage the base metal).
For long-term storage (over 3 months), regularly check the warehouse humidity (keep relative humidity ≤60%) and the integrity of the protective film-repair or replace damaged film in time.
