METALOGRAM
Metalogram Vol.02 No.3 (August,2026)

Effectiveness Analysis of An Acid-Based Commercial Cleaner (Harpic) and A Corrosion Inhibitor (Wd-40) on A Motorcycle Fuel Tank

Aminuddin Aminuddin (Universitas Riau Kepulauan)
Safira Ma'asya (Universitas Riau Kepulauan)
Tri Tunggal SB (Universitas Riau Kepulauan)
Muhammad Alfarizhi (Universitas Riau Kepulauan)
Fardin Hasibuan (Universitas Riau Kepulauan)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Aug 2026

Abstract

Corrosion in steel fuel tanks is a common problem that can impair engine performance. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a low-cost restoration method on a severely corroded motorcycle tank. The methodology employed was a case study with a sequential application: a 72-hour immersion in a hydrochloric acid-based cleaner (Harpic) to dissolve iron oxides, followed by the application of a water-displacing corrosion inhibitor (WD-40) as a temporary protectant. Effectiveness was evaluated through comparative visual inspection at each stage of the process. The observational results show that this method successfully removed the majority of corrosion products (rust) and restored the base metal surface. The application of the corrosion inhibitor proved effective in preventing the occurrence of flash rust over a one-week observation period. With a total cost of approximately $9.50 USD, this method offers 90%+ cost savings compared to tank replacement. It is concluded that this combination of commercial products offers a functional and affordable solution for short-term restoration and protection, with the key caveats that the evaluation is qualitative and the protection is not permanent.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

metalogram

Publisher

Subject

Aerospace Engineering Automotive Engineering Control & Systems Engineering Engineering Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering

Description

Metalogram is published by Program Studi Teknik Mesin, Fakultas Teknik, Universitas Riau Kepulauan, Batam, Indonesia. Metalogram is an open-access peer reviewed journal that mediates the dissemination of academicians, researchers, and practitioners in mechanical engineering. Metalogram accepts ...