How to properly install Zerust VCI capsules
A VCI capsule that is hung incorrectly in a cabinet will not protect the entire volume. Placement is just as important as the choice of capsule. Here is what you need to know.
How a VCI capsule works
The capsule emits a corrosion-inhibiting gas that spreads in a spherical shape from the mounting point. Imagine a beach ball of protective atmosphere. Everything inside the ball is protected – everything outside is not. Therefore, the capsule must be placed as close to the center of the cabinet as possible.
VCI vapor is heavier than air and sinks. If you mount the capsule at the bottom of the cabinet, you only cover the lower half. If you mount it at the top and centrally, the vapor fills the entire volume.
Installation step by step
Only take the capsule out of the bag when it is ready to be mounted – the vapor begins to work immediately. Use the included double-sided tape and attach the capsule centrally in the cabinet, preferably on the back of the door panel or on a partition plate. Close the cabinet and apply a Zerust sticker with signature and expiration date on the outside. This way, the next inspector knows exactly what is inside and when it needs to be replaced.
The illustration shows three scenarios: a small cabinet with one capsule placed centrally, a standard rack with one capsule at the top in the middle, and a long cabinet where two capsules are placed as if they were sitting in the center of two separate protection zones.
Large cabinets require several capsules
If you have a long or narrow cabinet, one capsule is rarely enough – even if the volume is theoretically within the capsule's reach. The reason is the geometry: a narrow, tall panel does not fit into one sphere. Divide the cabinet into logical zones and place one capsule per zone, centered in each volume.
A simple rule of thumb: if the cabinet is more than twice as long as it is wide, use two capsules.
Which capsule is right for your cabinet?
Zerust covers everything from 4 liters to 24,000 liters. You can find the entire range in our overview of VCI capsules. If you need help choosing the right one, read our complete guide here.
We have been a Zerust distributor for 20 years and are happy to help you with sizing. Also, see Zerust's technical documentation for detailed specifications per capsule model.
Common installation errors
The capsule is mounted at the bottom of the cabinet?: The vapor only covers the lower half. Always mount it centrally or at the top.
The capsule is opened and stored for later?: Then much of the capacity has already been used. Take the capsule out of the bag just before mounting.
The cabinet is opened often?: Every time you open the cabinet, the VCI vapor escapes. In high-frequency operational environments, you should consider a shorter replacement interval or a more powerful capsule.
No sticker on the door?: Without a date and signature, no one knows when the capsule expires. An expired capsule provides no protection.
Questions about installation or capsule selection? Call us at 51 94 47 00 or send an email to post@realmarine.no.
