In repair work, we are often faced with the need to paint metal pipes and metal structures, as well as other metal products. The big problem here is that often the metal oxidizes in the presence of moisture, rusts. To remove rust from metal, mechanical cleaning is required, then anti-corrosion treatment and painting. This is a very troublesome undertaking, often details of structures are inaccessible for cleaning rust.
Finally, to facilitate this process, rust paints have been created, and they are also very beautiful as a decorative coating. These are modern broad spectrum paints.
The advantages of this type of paint:
- applied directly to rusty surfaces
- creates a coating on metal that repels water and dirt
- well covers the base
- strong adhesion to the base
- anti-corrosion
- fast drying
- the coating is durable, up to 8 years
- wealth of colors
Disadvantages of this type of paint:
- you cannot paint objects with it that are heated to more than 150 degrees Celsius.
- objects painted with this paint must not come into contact with drinking water
Types of paints for rust
To achieve the desired effect when processing these paints, it is necessary to understand their types and areas of applicability. Rust paints are classified according to the base substance, purpose and maximum temperature of use, and the number of components. So, there are water-borne paints with phosphoric acid, they are the cheapest, but they have low resistance to the environment; there are two-component with additives of epoxy resins, polyurethane, and corrosion inhibitors. According to the basic substance, paints are divided into:
- Epoxy. Toxic, do not use in everyday life. Suitable for highly heated steel structures.
- Oil. Contains drying oil and natural oils. Not resistant to temperature. Outdoor corrosion protection is low, suitable for indoor use.
- Alkyd. For galvanized metal. Excessively flammable, cannot be used for highly heated steel structures. Very adhesive.
- Acrylic. Long-lasting anti-corrosion protection. Suitable for highly heated structures, such as heating elements, indoors and outdoors.
- Special paint for rust 3 in 1. Reduces the cost and shortens the restoration of rusted metal. Can be quickly applied directly to untreated metal. Low cost. Includes resins, anti-corrosion elements. Highly adhesive, dries quickly, protects for up to 8 years.
- Hammer paints. Provides a roughened, metallic sheen, similar to a hammer. Alkyds, acrylics, epoxies, aluminum powder are used in the paint. Also gives glossy and semi-matt shades. Also suitable for non-ferrous metals. The primer may not be used before application. The first layer acts as a primer, the second is anti-corrosion, the third acts as the actual enamel. Do not paint objects heated above 150 degrees.
- Anti-corrosion paints for car body repair.
- Aerosol form. It has many functions, convenient for touch-up in areas of paint defects and difficult access. Also suitable for non-ferrous metals and other natural materials. The universal grade of this paint also serves as a primer, anti-corrosion and decorative.
Methods for protecting metal from rust:
- Active electrochemical protection
- Galvanic protective protection
- Cold galvanized matella
- Sealing of rust in a polymer film, metal painting
- Phosphating, rust transformation
Rust paint for outdoor use
Metal structures where anti-corrosion painting is required:
- plumbing and heating pipes
- metal fences
- metal structures of an architectural plan
- greenhouses
- bars, gates
Surface paint on rust
In order to achieve the expected effect during the repair, it is necessary to correctly follow the stages of processing the object with these paints. You need to carefully follow the sequence of actions, otherwise your work may turn out to be defective.
- Heating systems should be painted only when they are turned off, use heat-resistant paint that can withstand up to 150 degrees.
- Furnaces are painted with compounds that can withstand up to 500 degrees.
- Non-ferrous metals require special primers.
- Open air facilities require organic solvents.
- If the rust is loose, it must be removed first, otherwise the paint will peel off.
- Before using the paint, check that its heat resistance corresponds to the heating temperature of the product to be painted.
Best paint for rust
The price depends on the firm and on the components. Let's pay attention only to the most widely used types of paints, the high quality of which has been proven in practice.
Most popular. It can be used to achieve a glossy, hammer-like and slightly matte effect. Does not allow dirt to accumulate on the structure. It is used in the design of cottages, in industrial construction, in roofing works, in the painting of communications, industrial and agricultural equipment, various metal structures. The surface does not need to be cleaned. Withstands from -20 to + 80 degrees of temperature. The paint serves as a primer, rust converter and decorative coating at the same time. Dries quickly, apply several layers per day. It is necessary to ensure that the surface does not exfoliate before painting. Cannot be used together with bituminous materials. Non-ferrous metals must be primed first.
Rust enamel primers:
They are very convenient to use, they really facilitate the process of removing rust when applied. They give a 3-in-1 effect, i.e. act simultaneously as a primer, anti-corrosion agent and decorative coating. The surface is cleaned of dirt, degreased with White Spirit, rust is cleaned with a spatula, metal brush or emery. Mix and apply two layers at intervals of 30 minutes to 5 hours. If this time has expired, the second coat can only be painted after 30 days.
Other Popular Top-Selling Rust Paints:
- Enamel-primer “Rust-Eater-Universal. Cleans and primes the base. The filled color is created with a second layer.
- Paint "Nerzhamet". Alkyd-based, quick-drying, anti-corrosion.
- Iron red lead paint. Good lays down, masks flaws. Does not have a strong effect against rust. Low price.
- Alpina priming enamel (Direct auf Rost). Lead-free unlike many other paints. Does not smell, creates a durable coating, fits well. Beforehand, it is enough to remove dirt from the metal.
In general, when using rust paint, it is important to read the instructions carefully because there can be significant differences in the application of different grades of these paints. At the same time, it should be noted that in some instructions the quality of the paint is somewhat overestimated, so it is necessary to check in other sources whether it is actually not necessary to prime the surface before use, as well as indicators such as, for example, the suitability of the paint at -20 degrees frost, are written only for force majeure, in reality this does not mean that it is usually used at such a temperature.
No matter how strong a metal product is, it is still susceptible to corrosion. Even galvanized steel rusts in places over time. However, there are special paint compositions for external and internal work on metal that has already undergone corrosion. Each of them has its own characteristics.
The main types of paints
Rust paint for metal gives metal products an attractive appearance and reliably protects them from the effects of atmospheric agents. All metal paints can be divided into three large groups:
- Alkyd. Their advantage is that they can often be applied to a metal surface without prior priming. Such compositions have good adhesion (adhesion), therefore, they are suitable for painting galvanized steel and aluminum. Moreover, their price is low.
- Acrylic. The paint composition includes an aqueous dispersion of acrylic polymer and other additives that increase the anticorrosion resistance of the paint. Required prior to application of a surface primer.
- Polyurethane. They are highly resistant to abrasion and wear, as well as to the action of chemicals. Therefore, such compositions are most often used in conditions of high mechanical loads and in an aggressive environment during outdoor work.
In addition, there are formulations based on phosphoric acid. Such paints not only destroy traces of corrosion, but also prevent its occurrence. They are highly toxic, so they are not used indoors.
Phosphoric paints are applied in two layers: one liquid - as a primer, the other - thicker. For their application, preliminary cleaning of the surface from rust is not required.
What paints are used for indoor and outdoor work
Used for metal and oil, epoxy paint compositions, nitro paint. Oil paint is suitable for indoor work, it retains its shades well enough without direct exposure to an external aggressive environment. They also use nitro enamel, but when working with it, a protective respirator is required.
Toxic acrylic and epoxy paints are usually used outdoors. They retain their protective properties longer, have good adhesion to metal, but their toxicity makes them refuse to work with them indoors.
Best suited for outdoor use is weatherproof paint for metal and rust, which contains components specifically designed to withstand weathering.
How to paint rusty metal
Choosing the right paint is not all. It is necessary to properly prepare the surface to be painted. Only correctly applied paint guarantees long-term protection against metal corrosion.
Surface preparation of metal structures
If paint is used that does not have anti-corrosion properties, then it is necessary to remove all rust, down to the smallest traces. For this, the base is sanded with sandpaper. This is the simplest and cheapest method, but rather laborious.
There is a tool that greatly facilitates the preparatory process. It is a rust converter containing phosphoric and tannic acids. Work with such a composition is carried out in the following order:
- Remove the top, most loose layer of the rusty surface;
- Apply a rust converter;
- After a few hours, according to the instructions, wash off the layer of converted rust with water.
A protective work suit and respirator must be worn when working with the transmitter.
After rust treatment, the surface must be primed. The primer is applied in a thin layer, after stirring well. For application, you can use ordinary painting tools - brushes, rollers or spray guns.
Metal painting
The metal is painted only after the primer has completely dried. The paint composition is thoroughly stirred, then it is evenly applied in a thin layer. The instructions for the paint should indicate when the metal can be coated with a second coat. This time must be endured.
Usually metal products are painted in 2-3 layers: correctly applied paint keeps structures from corrosion for a long time. The tools can be used the same as for priming. After painting, the paint should dry well.
If a sprayer is used, then you need to carefully monitor so that there are no unpainted areas. It is the unpainted areas that will subsequently become the source of the spread of rust, which will reduce all work and efforts to nothing.
All unpainted areas must be carefully primed and anti-corrosive with a brush or spray can.
Even if paints are used that do not require cleaning metal structures from rust, it is still better to clean the most problematic areas and remove large flakes of rust. Such measures will keep the metal protected for at least 5 years, or even more.
Popular paints for metal
Many products have appeared on the building materials market that greatly facilitate painting work. For example, the popular "3 in 1" paint, which combines 3 components - a rust converter, a primer with high adhesion and an enamel coating.
It is the optimal composition for corroded metals. You just need to take into account that large flakes of rust still have to be cleaned, but you do not need to touch the rest of the layer: the enamel will lie flat and cover all errors and defects. Let's list the main paints used:
- Hammerayt for rust. This paint is very popular. It prevents dirt from retaining on the metal structure, it can be matte and glossy. It is used in private housing construction, industry, agricultural equipment. No rust removal is required for its application. The temperature range at which the composition retains the specified properties is from -20 to +80 degrees.
- Ground enamels. They successfully destroy corrosion, prime the surface, and act as a decorative paint. To apply them, the surface must be cleaned of dirt, degreased, cleaned traces of rust. Ground enamels are applied in 2 layers. The time between application of layers is indicated in the instructions and ranges from 30 minutes to 5-6 hours. This interval must be strictly observed, otherwise the metal can be covered with a second layer only after a month.
- Rust-eater paint. A universal composition that acts both as a primer and as a paint composition. It is an enamel in combination with a primer that can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. Protects metal from rust in adverse conditions, stops corrosion of various alloys. The paint can be applied on concrete and wood surfaces. The temperature range without loss of quality is from -60 to +100 degrees.
- Quick-drying alkyd paint "Nerzhamed". It also dries very quickly, alkyd and polymer modifiers are introduced into its composition. Suitable for application on corroded surfaces without additional cleaning of the substrate.
- TICIANA alkyd enamel primer creates a surface that does not corrode. Rust does not spread under its layer. Can be used both indoors and outdoors.
- Enamel Poly-Hammer (POLI-HAMMER) also prevents the spread of corrosion, and even has excellent decorative properties. Painted with this enamel, the metal surface takes on a stylish vintage look.
- Hammer effect paint. This composition is the dream of all motorists, it is also used in shipbuilding, in industries associated with exposure to chemicals. Its distinctive feature is unique water resistance and inertness to salt and other aggressive media. The elastic composition is able to mask all irregularities, has high adhesion to metal, is able to create structural patterns on the surface of metal structures, dries quickly and does not allow air to pass through.
The only condition is that not all paint compositions can be applied to metal parts that heat up to 100 degrees or more. Such structures should be protected with special compounds, in the instructions for which a high temperature is allowed.
Anti-corrosion compounds for cars
Usually the car is coated with anti-corrosion compounds during the production phase. But it happens that some parts of the body rust under the influence of adverse weather conditions. In this case, anti-corrosion mixtures will come to the rescue.
They are of two types: in the form of an aerosol, for hard-to-reach places of the car, and applied with a brush. It is enough to lightly clean the area affected by corrosion in order to then apply a product that will create an even and smooth painted surface.
But you cannot use anti-corrosion mixtures for those parts that are heated to a temperature of more than 150 degrees. Here it is already better to entrust the work to specialists.
Of course, this is not a complete list of anti-corrosion paints used to prevent rust in metal structures. New formulations are being developed, already tested paints are being modified.
The choice is wide, therefore, with the correct use of anti-corrosion agents, metal structures and parts will serve for a long time and delight the eye with a beautiful appearance.
Painted metal surfaces often lose their original appearance. The connection of air to metal, even with the smallest scratch or crack, inevitably leads to the appearance of rust. The owner of the damaged item needs to know exactly what type of paint or rust primer is required in a particular case.
Advantages of Hammerayt paint
Currently, there are a huge number of different products for painting and restoration of surfaces affected by corrosion. The choice of products depends on the degree of damage and the individual preferences of the buyer. The most popular on the market are the special Hammerite paint with a hammer effect. Experts highlight many advantages when using this tool:
- this paint, due to its unique composition, can be applied to the damaged surface without removing the rust first;
- this product has a water-repellent effect, thereby preventing the reappearance of rust;
- this paint can be used at various temperatures ranging from -20 to + 85 ° C;
- when exposed to high temperatures, the paint does not lose its properties;
- the hand-engraved effect makes Hammeraite paint one of the most convenient and popular anti-corrosion agents for metals;
- This product is suitable not only for metal substrates, but also for processing wooden products covered with primer.
Today, Hammerayt is used for painting non-ferrous metals, is used during indoor work and is the most convenient tool for combating corrosion. 
Advantages of Tikkurila paint
The coloring agents of the Finnish company "Tikkurila" also have a number of their advantages and can help with the appearance of corrosion on metal and ground surfaces. Among the advantages of using this paint are:
- the use of harmless environmental products that meet European quality standards in the composition of the product;
- suitable for both professional work and household repair needs;
- long-lasting effect after painting;
- a large selection of colors.
This type of paint is safe to use, it will qualitatively and reliably protect the affected area from the reappearance of rust on the surface.
The Russian paint "Nerzhamet" of the "KrasKo" company, which produces coloring agents for metals and soils subject to corrosion, is worthy of competitors to foreign anticorrosive agents.
Benefits when using this type of coloring agent:
- the use of new technological equipment when creating a coloring matter;
- adhered to European quality standards;
- the paint provides reliable and long-term protection against the reappearance of rust;
- this tool is indispensable for painting external metal structures with a complex profile, including large-sized metal products;
- the paint can withstand the aggressive effects of the atmosphere, prevent the penetration of moisture and sunlight into the coating.
This tool can be used both for external construction work and for painting inside the building. It will reliably protect metal bases from rust and increase the service life of metal and ground surfaces. 
Advantages of hammer paints for primer and metal
At present, paints for rust and hammer effect are in great demand. These funds greatly simplify the process of treating the affected area and help to reliably protect it from re-rusting. Due to the hammer effect, the use of special cleaning machines is not required for surface treatment, since the paint automatically destroys the formed corrosive deposits.
The composition of these paints is distinguished by exceptional strength, contains fillers in the form of fine-grained glass and aluminum powder, as well as silicone oil. In a liquid state, the finished dye has increased adhesion. It dries quickly, after which a durable anti-corrosion surface is formed.
A big advantage is not only the quality itself, but also the appearance of the paint. The surface treated with an anti-corrosion compound is outwardly indistinguishable from hand-chasing for metal made with a blacksmith's hammer. A wide variety of colors allows you to use paint without prejudice to the general appearance of the room, and an environmentally correct composition will not harm your health. The use of high-quality paints will allow to prolong the use of metal and ground products for a long time.
The mechanism of the appearance and growth of corrosion is simple. Unprotected metal surface, interacting with water and oxygen, begins to oxidize. Its structure changes, becomes loose and porous, and loses its visual appeal.
But external manifestations of corrosion are half of the trouble. The pores of the rusted metal attract moisture even more and better keep it inside, accelerating the destructive processes. As a result, the product loses its strength, and its service life decreases.
Conventional anti-corrosion paints and varnishes protect the metal well from rusting, creating a moisture-impermeable film on its surface. But in order for them to adhere well to the surface and perform their functions efficiently, the products must be cleaned of the destroyed layer before applying them, then covered with an anti-corrosion primer, and only after it dries with paint.
The difference between paints for rust and ordinary paints for metal
Multi-stage processing takes too much time, requires large material and physical costs, which is not always justified. A less time-consuming and often more cost-effective way to protect metal is the use of special paints that can be applied directly to the rust, bypassing the preparatory steps.
Packages with such paint are marked "3 in 1". This means that the composition performs three functions at once:
- converts rust particles;
- primes the surface;
- creates a monolithic decorative waterproof layer on it, which is also resistant to various chemical compounds.
Rust paint has several important advantages, many of which are missing from conventional decorative compositions for metal products.
- It can be applied to metal already corroded. It is not required to completely clean off the rust, achieving the opening of the undamaged layer.
- The protective layer created by the paint repels not only water, but also dirt, maintaining a neat appearance of the product.
- Such compositions are distinguished by high adhesion - they adhere well to the damaged surface and create a uniform covering layer on it.
- The service life of such coverage is usually very long - from 3 to 15 years. It depends on the composition and manufacturer.
Like conventional decorative finishes, paints that can be applied directly to rust come in a wide variety of colors and shades.
Types of anti-corrosion paints: composition
The properties and scope of rust paints are determined by their composition. And basically - the kind of base. On this basis, they are divided into oil, alkyd, acrylic, epoxy.
Find out how to paint the ceiling, as well as familiarize yourself with the characteristics, advantages and preparatory work, in a special article on our portal.
Prices for anti-corrosion paints
Anti-corrosion paints
Types of paints: application method
The consumption of paint compositions depends on the method of application. This can be done in the traditional way - with a roller or brush. If the paint can be sprayed with a spray gun, its consumption is reduced to 20-30%. And aerosol paints in spray cans are distinguished by increased consumption.
The choice of method depends on the type of surface to be painted. For example, solid metal parts with a large area of painting can be painted as you like, and it is more convenient to spray paint on openwork paint. It is also easier to paint over hard-to-reach places with a spray gun.
Note. With proper surface preparation and adherence to the painting conditions, the durability of the finished coating will be the same regardless of the method of applying the paint.
Popular rust paints
Among the many brands of special rust paints, there are those that are especially popular. It is determined not only by positive customer reviews, but also by sales.
Hammerite
This brand is confidently leading, despite the rather decent cost. This is due to the quality of the coating, its durability, beautiful texture and versatility. Hammerayt anti-corrosion paints are used for decorative finishing of ferrous, galvanized and non-ferrous metals, wood, plastic. They are used for finishing external and internal structures. Apply to new and previously painted surfaces with a different paint.
When choosing a paint of this brand, you should pay attention to the series.
"Lacra" Hammer Effect
Another effective protective agent with a hammer consistency. Made on an alkyd-styrene base, it has a low price and good adhesion to metal surfaces with a rusty layer thickness of up to 0.1 mm. It can also be used to paint wooden structures, creating a coating with a metallic sheen on them.
"Lacra" Hammer Effect
Universal paint from the well-known company Caparol for decorating metal surfaces indoors and outdoors. Differs in ease of application and good resistance to fading.
"Nerzhamet"
Alkyd paint Stainless is produced in the usual form and in aerosol cans. It contains polymer inclusions, is very easy to apply, dries quickly and adheres well to rusty surfaces, forming a hard semi-glossy film. Its service life without the need to renew the coverage is six years.
"Prestige". Primer-enamel
Another inexpensive domestic product, characterized by a high drying rate, high resistance to moisture and other aggressive media, and an economical consumption of a maximum of 120 grams per square meter. It is diluted with solvents such as xylene or P-4 to the desired consistency.
"Prestige". Primer-enamel
This paint is widely used for finishing galvanized metal roofs, external pipelines and fences.
"Stop rust"
Like most other alkyd enamels, this composition can be applied in any way. Available in packaging of different sizes: buckets, cans, aerosol cans. It is used to paint external structures made of steel and cast iron, including those with an old paintwork. It penetrates well into the decaying structure of the metal and blocks the spread of rust.
"Stop rust"
"Cycrol"
Even galvanized steel under the influence of precipitation, sunlight and corrosive impurities contained in the air corrodes over time. For its protection, a special 3-in-1 "Cycrol" product has been developed, which has high adhesion to such surfaces.
It contains acrylic resins, organic solvents and additives that increase the resistance of the enamel to wear, moisture, low temperatures, corrosion and other atmospheric influences. It is distinguished by good hiding power, water repellency and the ability to dry quickly after application.
Advice. The paint contains volatile toxins that evaporate into the air from a fresh, not dried composition. Therefore, while working with this product, it is necessary to protect the respiratory system and skin.
Heat resistant paints
Not all rust paints are able to withstand high temperatures. They are designed for heating no higher than 40-60 degrees. But metal structures such as stoves, barbecues, fireplaces, pipes and heating radiators, parts of cars and other equipment also need protection against corrosion.
To decorate them, you need to use heat-resistant and heat-resistant paints. The degree of their stability is determined by the composition of the components. Among such dyes, several different types are also distinguished.
| Types of heat-resistant paints | Composition and application |
|---|---|
 | Alkyd paints with the addition of zinc and phosphate compounds are designed for temperatures up to 100 degrees. They can be used to paint elements of the heating system - radiators and pipes that do not heat up above 90 degrees. |
 | Epoxy compounds can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees. Some of them need to be primed with an anti-corrosion primer. It can be used to create a protective coating on units and parts of technical equipment. |
 | Epoxy ester and ethyl silicate coloring compositions with metal powder as additives withstand the maximum temperature of 400 degrees. And one-component silicone based on polymer resins - up to 650 degrees. These are suitable paints for protective and decorative finishing of outdoor barbecues. |
 | The most heat-resistant paints contain particles of composite materials and heat-resistant glass. They are used to paint metal stoves and fireplaces that can heat up to 800-1000 degrees. |
Prices for heat-resistant paints
Heat resistant paints
It is important! In the vast majority of cases, all these structures should be painted in a cold state, and heated after the coating has completely dried. Although there are paints that require heat to cure. Therefore, carefully read the instructions for use.
Decorating metal structures with rust paint
Three-in-one metal colorants can be applied to any metal structure, even those damaged by corrosion. In this case, preliminary treatment with a special primer is not needed, because such paints already possess the properties of this composition. Moreover, they are converters of rust into a monolithic layer and are excellent decorative materials.
Thanks to these features, painting any metal structures with such paint is much easier than with conventional compositions that require careful preliminary preparation of the metal surface.
Regardless of the method of application, the order of work consists of just a few steps.
Step 1.The surface of the metal is cleaned of dirt and peeling top rusty layer using a stiff brush, spatula or sandpaper with a coarse abrasive.
Step 2.Wipe the cleaned product with a solvent, wetting a cloth or sponge in it. And let it dry.
Step 3.Preparation of paint consists in its thorough mixing. Or shaking the can if using an aerosol. It is advisable to rub a brush with natural bristles on sandpaper so that poorly adhering bristles fall out and do not remain on the paint coating.
Step 4.The paint is applied to the surface in a uniform layer and allowed to dry for the time specified in the instructions.
Step 5.Then a second layer is applied, trying to avoid drips.
If the paint is applied or sprayed from a spray can, then more layers will be required - at least three. Between them, it is imperative to observe the time interval for drying.
Prices for paint sprayers
Spray gun
Shake the can or the gun before work and periodically during its execution, and keep the spray at a distance of 20 cm from the surface to be painted.
The modern market of finishing materials is constantly replenished with new products that simplify the work of finishers and have improved decorative and operational characteristics. Rust paint is a prime example of this innovation.
Video - Paint on rust 3 in 1
Despite the emergence of many new materials made in accordance with the methods developed in the age of innovative technologies, the metal, ubiquitous as an external finishing material, does not plan to give up its positions. However, its specific characteristics necessitate the introduction of paints and varnishes in the construction industry to prevent premature failure of metal surfaces, which, despite the strength and durability of the metal, is not uncommon. Metal structures have become an integral part of apartment buildings, the design features of which imply the presence of metal water and heating pipes, as well as metal fences on balconies and stairways. Suburban construction makes even more active use of metal structures - small architectural forms, greenhouses, gates and grilles on the windows - all this is made mainly of metal. The choice of metal is determined by its unique characteristics, including mechanical strength, and increased resistance to high temperatures, and relative availability. Despite its many advantages, metal has its own vulnerabilities, the presence of which determines the use of paint for metal and rust.
About rust and how to deal with it
As you already understood, the main disadvantage of the metal is its low resistance to corrosion, which is expressed not only in the deterioration of the appearance of metal structures, but also in the shortening of its operational life. In order to understand the principle of action of anti-corrosion agents, we will consider the basic terminology. Rust - is the result of oxidative processes on the surface of the metal. Metal structures undergo oxidation when the air contains a large amount of water vapor, under the influence of which the strength of the metal decreases and its original attractiveness is lost. Progressive corrosion, penetrating into the material, attracts moisture and is retained inside the metal due to its porous structure. How to deal with the destruction of the metal, which, with constant contact of the material with an aggressive environment and the absence of special measures to prevent the destruction of the metal, will only progress?
Traditional methods of metal protection involve cleaning rust, after which the metal surface is treated with anti-corrosion primer and only then with protective paint. However, from the point of material and time costs, these measures are not always justified, which necessitated the search for new, cost-effective and less labor-intensive methods of protecting metal from corrosion. And they were found. Today, the order of actions in this situation looks somewhat different.
To avoid the progressive destruction of the material, paint and varnish compositions are used to prevent the oxidation process on the metal surface.
Classification of paints and varnishes for metal
Before considering in detail the characteristics and use of paint for rust, consider the main varieties of paint for metal:
- Epoxy enamels;
- Oil paints;
- Alkyd paints;
- Acrylic paints.
Epoxy enamels, in view of the toxicity of their constituent components, are used extremely rarely in everyday life. The material, made on the basis of silicone resins, is designed to protect metal structures from exposure to high temperatures.
Oil paints, the main components of which are linseed oil and natural oils, due to their low resistance to temperature extremes, are intended mainly for interior finishing work. This limits their use as a material for external finishing works, since oil paints will not provide adequate protection of metal structures from corrosion.
Alkyd paints used to paint galvanized metal surfaces also have their own advantages and disadvantages. Despite the fact that alkyd paints are characterized by the greatest adhesive power, they are not resistant to high temperatures and are extremely flammable.
Despite the fact that acrylic paints for metal are characterized by a relatively recent appearance on the market, they are currently characterized by growing popularity, which is explained by a number of functional characteristics of this type of paints and varnishes. Due to their durability and guaranteed protection of metal against corrosion, they are used for both internal and external finishing work. In addition, they are effective in painting heating elements and other highly heated parts.
Anti-corrosion paints: scope and characteristics
As you may have guessed, not all metal paints are capable of providing optimal protection of the material against corrosion and premature loss of its original characteristics. In this regard, considering the classification of paints by metal, it is necessary to separately consider the standing paint for rust. Among consumers, the most popular representative of this group is Hammerayt rust paint.
Knowledgeable developers, whose goal is to carry out renovations with minimal economic costs, prefer to buy paint on rust to protect the metal from rust. This will not only make it possible to refuse to carry out rather laborious work and expensive work, which are not always justified, but will also significantly simplify the technological process of applying an anti-corrosion coating. Rust paint, the price of which depends on the manufacturer and the technical variety of the paint and varnish material, is a fast-drying one-component paint made on the basis of epoxy-modified synthetic resins with the addition of anti-corrosion pigments, which provides the most effective and durable anti-corrosion protection and a finish coating with high decorative characteristics ...
Thanks to the composition of synthetic resins carefully selected by a team of specialists, the use of Hammerite rust paint allows you to obtain a glossy, semi-matte and hammer finish, the features of which will be discussed below. The main advantage of this coating is the ability to resist the accumulation of dirt, which plays an important role in the formation of rust. The scope of application of paint for rust is extremely wide: today it is used both in private construction and in the industrial industry, for example, for painting roofing systems, gas and water pipes, equipment, machine tools and agricultural tools, as well as other metal structures that need in anti-corrosion protection.
The inclusion of high-molecular silicones in the paint provides additional properties of the paint, the essence of which is to prevent the negative effects of moisture on metal surfaces. The wetting properties of the paint make it possible to apply it to completely unprepared metal surfaces. The operating temperatures of metals treated with an anti-corrosion compound are between -20 and +80 degrees, which, together with resistance to destruction by ultraviolet radiation, makes it possible to use the paint under rust in hot and humid climatic zones.
Advantages of rust paint
Let's summarize the above and highlight the main advantages of paint for rust:
- Can be applied directly to rusty surfaces and poorly prepared surfaces;
- The ability of the paint to form a weather-resistant coating characterized by water and dirt-repellent properties;
- High covering ability;
- High level of adhesion to rusty surfaces;
- It is characterized by high resistance to corrosion;
- Dries up in a short period of time;
- Long operational life of the coating, up to 8 years;
- A wide variety of factory shades.
Despite the large number of advantages, the anti-corrosion coating also has its disadvantages:
- It is prohibited to paint equipment whose operating temperatures exceed 150 degrees;
- The application of an anti-corrosion coating on metal structures, the surface of which is in contact with drinking water, is excluded.
Features of hammer paint for rust
The color palette includes a variety of shades, including glossy and semi-glossy colors, semi-matte and hammer shades.
Hammer paint for rust got its name due to the fact that the surface covered with it visually resembles the surface of a hammer head, that is, it is characterized by the same barely perceptible roughness and metallic luster. The manufacture of hammer paint is carried out using alkyd-styrene, acrylic and epoxy bases, and with the addition of fine-grained glass and aluminum powder.
Due to the increased resistance of hammer paint to high humidity, temperature fluctuations and vibration effects, hammer paint is used for surface treatment of industrial equipment, as well as for creating stable anti-corrosion coatings of not only ferrous, but also non-ferrous metals. The main advantage of hammer paint is the ability to apply directly to rust without preliminary preparation and the creation of an airtight protective film due to the content of special binders.
Application of anti-corrosion paint to the surface: preparation
The course of work when applying the anti-corrosion coating is standard. Since the surface to be painted must be clean, dry and free from grease, before painting it is recommended to carry out its standard preparation, which means cleaning the surface with a wire brush in two directions or evenly passing it with sandpaper over the contact surface of the material. After examining the surface condition for the presence of sharp corners and finding large residual irregularities, they are removed using a crusher. However, experts do not recommend getting carried away with such cardinal techniques as using a crusher and a drill with an appropriate attachment, as they can damage the metal surface and even disrupt its integrity. Previously painted surfaces should be cleaned not only of dirt, dust and grease, but also of old paint, after which it is thoroughly rinsed with water and dried.
If you are dealing with surfaces that have developed rust, the next step is to choose the best method to remove the rust before painting. If you use a paint that contains a rust converter to protect the metal surface from corrosion, there is no need to focus on the existing rust and the achievement of the metal luster of the treated surface, since this type of anti-corrosion paint converts rust residues, the thickness of which does not exceed 30 microns , into a layer of primer.
While rust paint manufacturers claim that their products can be used without priming, we advise you to apply a primer coat, which will increase the adhesion of the anti-corrosion paint and extend the life of the applied coating. Another thing is the paint primer for rust, the application of which does not require preliminary priming.
Primer-enamel for rust: features
Practicing the application of primer-enamel on various types of surfaces made of metal, including those damaged by rust, without the obligatory preliminary application of a primer. This is due to the effect of the primer-enamel, called "three-in-one", that is, the paint primer for rust combines the properties of a primer for metal, anti-corrosion paint and enamel for metal. As a result, the procedure for working with primer-enamel is greatly simplified:
- The metal surface is cleaned of dirt, dust and grease, as well as from the top layer of rust, which will require the use of a metal spatula, brush or sandpaper, and wiped with a solvent.
- The primer-enamel is thoroughly mixed beforehand and applied to the metal in two successive layers. In this case, before applying the second layer, it is kept for 30 minutes, which is the minimum period of interlayer drying time, which can be extended up to 5 hours. If after 5 hours you have not been able to apply the second layer of primer-enamel, it is necessary to postpone its application for another 30 days.
Anti-corrosion paint application technique
Before applying paint, the surface is thoroughly degreased using a solvent and dried. Experts recommend paying attention to the environmental conditions that are most optimal for painting. The recommended air humidity should be at least 80%, and the ambient temperature should be 20 degrees above zero. Professionals with experience in working with anti-corrosion paints advise not to pay attention to the manufacturer's recommendations, according to which work with paint can be carried out even at a temperature of 20 degrees below zero, since these recommendations are relevant mainly for force majeure circumstances.
- After cleaning the surface, the anti-corrosion paint is thoroughly shaken and the solvent is added in a ratio of 9: 1. If you are using Hammerite paint, experts recommend using Hammerite Brush Cleaner & Thinners. The application of paint is carried out in three layers, while the second is applied three hours after the application of the first layer, otherwise, the application of the second layer of paint is postponed for 6 weeks. Failure to comply with these recommendations will lead to the appearance of irregularities on the surface covered with paint. If these recommendations are disregarded and paint is applied in more than three coats, it may drip from the metal surface, which will lead to a significant decrease in the performance of the anti-corrosion coating. After applying paint on metal and rust, make sure all edges and corners are thoroughly painted over.
- If the surface has been previously painted, the anti-corrosion paint is applied in two layers, observing the above recommendations.
- If you prefer to spray paint with a spray gun, you can thin the paint with xylene. However, here, too, the manufacturer must indicate his recommendations: most often, the instructions give restrictions on the amount of added solvent, depending on the initial volume of paint. In most cases, they make up no more than 15% of the original volume of anti-corrosion paint. Dilution of paint with nitrocellulose solvent is excluded.
When applying paint using a spray gun, there are also a number of specific recommendations:
- The paint is applied in at least 3-4 coats, while the time interval between coats does not exceed 15 minutes;
- The distance between the treated surface and the spray gun should be at least 20 cm, pressure - no more than 2 bar;
- To obtain a homogeneous mass and color, which is necessary for the final coating to be uniform, the gun is thoroughly shaken before and during work;
- Despite the fact that the final layer should be much thicker, it is necessary to carefully monitor that there are no irregularities, and the paint does not settle or run down the surface.
Given the wide variety of metal surfaces, experts give a number of general recommendations that must be taken into account when working with anti-corrosion paint:
- In the case of painting the radiator and heating pipes, it is necessary to give preference to heat-resistant paint and soil, the operating temperatures of which are within 150 degrees;
- Heating pipes must be painted when they are cold, that is, before the start of the heating season;
- Painting of oven elements determines the need to use paint that is even more resistant to temperature, the temperature of which can reach 400-500 degrees;
- Painting of surfaces made of non-ferrous metals necessitates the use of special primers, since ordinary ones intended for ferrous metals will not work;
- In the case of work in industrial facilities carried out in the open air, manufacturers recommend the use of organic solvents.
