Zinc primer - effective protection of metal from corrosion

Maksym June 26, 2017 Specialization: country construction, apartment renovation, landscaping of a personal plot, installation and connection of utilities.

Any paint will work well on zinc primer.

Do you want to protect your metal from corrosion for a long time? To do this, before painting, you need to apply a zinc-containing primer to the surface. I will describe several types of anti-corrosion primer and tell you how to use them correctly for painting metal.

Soil composition

Zinc-containing soil is up to 99% zinc in the form of dust or flakes. Depending on the other components in the composition, the material is divided into 2 types:

• Soils containing zinc and organic matter. These are film formers (epoxy or polyurethane). Such compositions make it possible to create high electrical conductivity, providing protective protection through metal polarization. This process of electrochemical protection for metal is a fundamental factor.
• Zinc-containing inorganic soils. They include high dielectrics (ethyl silicates), liquid glass (alkali silicates) and amorphous polymers (polyvinyl butyrals).

There are combined and bimetallic primers. Along with zinc, aluminum, magnesium, and red lead can be added to the composition. They use alkali-resistant materials such as polystyrene, chlorinated rubber, and polyvinyl resins as film-forming components.

What is the difference between paints and enamels?

Those who are professional painters know the answer to this question. These are painters, people who sell varnishes and paints, as well as those who certainly work with these substances. Ordinary people do not understand the differences and think that enamel and paint are the same thing. Many people think that paint has a decorative matte finish, while enamel has a shine. But all these judgments are wrong. And there are a lot of differences.

They are: glaze and are divided into translucent, transparent and body (covering) - they are not translucent at all. There are also adhesive-based, oil-based, alkyd, emulsion and alkyd. They also come in liquid and paste form.

What is paint

Paint is a mixture that includes filler and solvent. The pigments contained in it give color and cover the coating. And aqueous dispersions, synthetic polymers and much more provide film-forming agents. They help the solution not to harden.

Solvents are water, ethers, oils and various carbohydrates. They reduce viscosity and make application more convenient. It is selected taking into account the substance that binds. And fillers are used as additives.

They provide matting properties, fire and thermal protection, resistance to fading and abrasion.

Types of enamel

Enamel, or otherwise enamel paint, has a pigmented composition made from resin or varnish, which forms a film. It also contains an organic solvent, filler and many other components.

Soot, ocher, red lead, titanium and more are used as pigments. The solvent is turpentine, alcohol, solvent. Microtalc or chalk filler. Enamel is sold in liquid or paste form. When dry it forms a coating. It is durable and does not show through.

You can choose the color scheme and texture.

There are several types of enamel paints:

1. Alkyd
   - they shine and are very resistant to temperature changes. Withstands from minus fifty to plus sixty degrees. It also withstands various detergents and mineral oils. Used in interior and exterior work. For painting wooden, concrete and metal surfaces.
2. Alkyd-melamine
   - have an elastic and hard coating. Good resistance to ultraviolet rays. Tolerates mechanical damage and humidity. The initial layer dries for about thirty minutes, and the second for about fifty minutes. Used for painting the outer layer of cars and motorcycles. And for parts that will be used and applied in humid climates.
3. Nitrocellulose
   - the main component is cellulose nitrate. It has a very pungent and unpleasant odor. But it dries very quickly. They paint it only in special suits, with a mask and with sprayers. Sometimes it is produced in aerosol cans. This paint can be used to paint metal surfaces, concrete and wood.
4. Pentaphthalic
   and
   glypthal
   paints were obtained by modifying drying oils with alkyd resins. They have a high degree of wear resistance and can withstand sudden temperature changes. Used for exterior work, painting floors, trolleybuses, buses, subway cars and trains. This coloring will last for fifteen years of exterior coloring. And if inside, then for six years.
5. Organosilicon
   – very resistant to abrasion. They tolerate high temperatures and moisture well.
6. Polyurethane
   - have a very high level of wear resistance. This paint is used to paint floor coverings that will be subject to heavy loads or frequent traffic. Dries within twenty-four hours. The room where painting will be done must be ventilated before starting.
7. Epoxy
   – resistant to water and chemicals. Used as an anti-corrosion coating. Paint wood and metal.

Advantages and disadvantages

The long process of application by consumers made it possible to highlight a sufficient number of points in favor of zinc-containing soils:

• they are applicable in any climatic conditions (high humidity or low temperatures);
• durable (have a service life of 15 to 50 years);
• waterproof and resistant to mechanical stress;
• inert to almost all types of chemicals;
• have a high level of anti-corrosion protection;
• heat-resistant and fire-resistant;
• increase the adhesion of the base and topcoat.
• are plastic and do not delaminate.

The main disadvantages of zinc-containing soil are:

• high toxicity;
• insufficient adhesion with finishing coatings;
• reduced electrical conductivity, which affects anti-corrosion protection.

The best choice

Galvanized and rust enamel has gained particular popularity among consumers who are guided by the above criteria when choosing a paint coating. This type of paint and varnish coating provides a significant extension of the service life of any structures made of galvanized metal (roofing, pipes). The cost of primer enamel exceeds the price of conventional paints. However, the result obtained after painting is worth the investment.

Alkyd primer-enamel from “Hammerite” attracts with its high adhesive properties, the ability to create a durable coating and ensure a good appearance of the painted structure. In addition, this enamel primer is applied directly over rust, dries quickly and is not affected by ultraviolet rays. Additional advantages include a wide range of colors.

Of course, Hammerite enamel is not a panacea. Among the disadvantages is the demanding choice of painting methods (for example, when applied with a roller, air bubbles may form). In addition, insufficient degreasing of the surface leads to cracking, rust forms approximately in the third year after painting, and salt deposits appear even earlier.

It is important for domestic consumers that epoxy paint from Tikkurila can be transported and stored even at severe sub-zero temperatures. The only whim is that painting should be done in the hot season, since in this case the adhesion of the paint to the heated galvanized metal will be much better

The necessary fire safety will be ensured by covering the galvanization with fire-retardant paint for metal “Polistil”. This paint perfectly protects structures in the event of a fire and is quite affordable in cost.

If you need to increase the level of protection, it is best to use Zinga electrically conductive paint. This coating is an analogue of industrial hot-dip galvanizing due to its composition of 96% zinc. The impression of high anti-corrosion properties and the absence of difficulties in operation can slightly spoil the cost. But if you need good protection, you don’t have to think about the price.

Characteristics and properties

An important point in the characteristics of zinc soils is the percentage composition of zinc content. But why did manufacturers choose zinc? The answer to this question lies in the properties of the metal itself. Zinc melts at a temperature of 419.5°C, quite low for metals, and at 200°C it becomes very brittle, which allows it to be crushed to dust. This metal is also used in the production of negative electrodes and can be 100% reused.

During long-term testing, it was found that the optimal value is 75.4% zinc in the form of dust. But manufacturers did not stop there and continued to reduce the figure. This is how they discovered a recipe for combining round and plate-shaped zinc particles. This made it possible to reduce the percentage of metal content to 30%.

This was explained by the fact that a large number of round particles react with each other individually, while particles of several shapes complement each other and show “cooperation” in protection. Another positive result was an increase in the protective anti-corrosion effect, which additionally arises due to the gate structure of zinc.

The flake-like form of zinc-containing primer also reduces the number of pores on the metal surface, which prevents the occurrence of white corrosion and destruction of the material.

Thus, it was revealed that highly filled zinc-containing primers for metal are inferior in characteristics to low-filled ones. In addition, the use of zinc flakes in the formulation of protective primers is economically justified, since the cost of zinc is higher than the price of many used film formers.

On video: zinc spray.

The best rust converters for cars

Rust converter for cars Nanoprotech “Super Anticorrosive”

The product is designed to protect metal surfaces and mechanisms from various negative influences. Thanks to the active components, it forms a moisture-repellent layer, which acts as a reliable protection against corrosion. The converter does not require too frequent use, as it operates for quite a long time. We can talk about high heat resistance.

The composition can be used when preserving cars for a long period. It successfully copes with long-term protection against corrosion and all forms of moisture. After application, we can talk about high adhesion to metal.

This is where unique nanoparticles work, capable of penetrating deeply into the structure of the surface being treated. They literally push out moisture and remove rust and oxides. Operating temperature: -80 – +140 degrees. Packaging – 210 ml bottle. Price – from 239 rubles. One cylinder is enough to treat two squares of surface.

Pros:

• harmless;
• really works;
• withstands washing with chemicals;
• easily penetrates into hard-to-reach places;
• works on wet surfaces;
• maintains elasticity for a long time;
• versatility (cars, trucks, motorcycles, construction, agricultural equipment, etc.).

Minuses:

high consumption.

Rust converter for Zinkor cars ZINCOR

Zinkor promises molecular corrosion protection and we can say that this is a truly worthwhile product that does its job perfectly. The kit is designed for local galvanizing of a car body; it works to remove rust and clean chrome areas.

We can say that this is a traveling kit that provides electrochemical removal of corrosion and application of a protective zinc layer using the electrolytic method. One set is enough to process one square meter of body. Work is carried out from any starting charger or car battery.

All detailed recommendations are given in the instructions; I will only note that the solutions in the bottles are intended for reusable use and are non-volatile. One kit includes: a solution for applying a protective layer, a solution for removing rust and degreasing, a connecting wire, two electrodes - for preparing the surface and for applying protection. The asking price is from 840 rubles.

Pros:

• the product works effectively in practice;
• two in one: rust removal + protective layer;
• low consumption.

Minuses:

• manipulations with wires and bottles during application;
• high price.

Rust converter for cars Hi-Gear HG5718 aerosol

Rust converter is great for coating corroded metal surfaces. It is easy to use during body repairs and before painting. The product formula does not allow the development of under-film corrosion.

The composition is distributed throughout the metal and triggers a chemical transformation. After application, a durable protective layer of dark color is formed, ensuring strong adhesion of paints and varnishes. The product can be used at temperatures above +10 degrees. It is distributed over a dry, cleaned surface. Before doing this, the bottle should be shaken, and it is also shaken periodically during use.

Spraying is carried out until a uniform coating is obtained, maintaining a distance of 15-30 cm. A total of 2-3 layers are required. Layer drying takes 2-3 minutes. Excess is easily eliminated with alcohol. Packaging – aerosol bottle, volume – 255 g. Cost – from 571 rub.

Pros:

• copes well with converting rust into soil;
• forms a protective layer that is resistant to moisture;
• excellent for painting;
• easy application.

Minuses:

• high price;
• high consumption.

Scope of application

Zinc primers for metal are quite widely used to protect industrial and building structures, such as overpasses and bridges. In the oil and gas industry, zinc-based soils are used to treat tanks, pipes, oil pipelines, storage facilities, and pumping equipment. In shipbuilding, such compositions are used for anti-corrosion treatment of platforms, sea and river vessels, and various metal structures.

Converters and tread primers are widely used in automotive production. Protective primers with zinc are used to cover metals subject to the process of electric arc and spot welding.

The protective function of zinc primer for metal can be explained by the structure of the composition, which is highly dispersed. In contact with moisture and air, zinc oxidizes, attracting the negative effects of the environment, thereby distracting metal surfaces from destruction.

Material containing zinc is “cemented” by oxidation products and creates a protective layer - a film that serves as an impenetrable barrier to moisture.

The best brands

Each car enthusiast selects individual components for his car and gives preference to them.

The best in terms of quality and effect include:

Dur1:1

.

Refers to reactive soils. The composition contains phosphate acid.

The manufacturer has invented a primer formula that quickly acquires the required strength, is highly reliable and has excellent adhesive properties. The advantages of the material are that it does not contain chromate.

To make curing happen faster, chemical reaction catalysts are used. They are included in the kit. The color of the liquid is gray. Volume – 1 l.

Body960 WashPrimer.

Two-component yellow primer. Used as a protective coating for parts made of stainless, galvanized, aluminum, galvanized alloy. To use, it is necessary to mix the primer with hardeners and then apply it to the cleaned car body. The layer thickness should be no more than 10 microns. Dries within 10 minutes.

Note. The finished protective layer does not require sanding, only the application of a leveling solution. This is any material consisting of 2 components. Cannot be used on polyester.

Mobihel.

Primer with a one-component base, gray. Has high anti-corrosion properties. Protects steel, galvanized and aluminum parts.

Serves as effective protection against rust, salt, and moisture on metal surfaces.

Primer preparation:

• The kit includes a dilution liquid with which the soil material is mixed in a ratio of 1:5, respectively;
• the surface to be treated is pre-prepared using abrasive materials. The preparation stage is described in the article;
• spraying is carried out using a spray gun, set the nozzle parameters to position 1.3. Application is made in 1 layer;
• hardening occurs within 1 hour. No grinding is necessary. An acrylic primer is immediately applied to the surface, then it is painted and varnished with the required number of layers.
• Radex CR1+1.

The primer serves as a good protection for metal parts, preventing rust from appearing on them. Two-component composition: base liquid, hardener. Each is sold in a container of 1 liter. Before processing the body, the components are mixed in a 1:1 ratio.

Note. The product is suitable for processing parts and components of new cars from the interior. They are used to protect products made of aluminum, steel, and galvanized alloys from corrosion. Advantages: good adhesive properties.

Reoflex 2K 1+1.

A two-component composition in the form of a yellow primer with phosphating components and a hardener. The main application is the restoration of damaged coatings, but is also used for processing new parts and assemblies. The hardening time is no more than 15 minutes, the room temperature should be at least +20C. Layer – 1 pc. Its maximum thickness is no more than 10 microns.

Note. The given brands of primer serve to improve the informational awareness of the reader. The information is not advertising in nature and does not call for the purchase of a particular product. The reader determines for himself which product is best to purchase and use to treat the surface of his car.

How to use

You can achieve optimal metal preservation by taking all measures to protect it:

1. First of all, you need to wisely choose a zinc-containing primer, in accordance with your operating conditions and requirements. Currently, there are many types of primers for metal, so consultation with a specialist is necessary.
2. Before applying the primer, thoroughly clean the surface from old coating, dirt and rust, degrease, and dry. It is advisable to use different types of cleaning.
3. Choose your application method: brush, roller, pneumatic or airless.
4. Before use, the primer should be shaken thoroughly to achieve a uniform composition.
5. The mixture should be applied in at least 2 layers, with drying time in between. At a temperature of 20°C, the coating dries in about an hour.

It is important to know that zinc primer is applied in the range from +5 to +40°C. It is also worth considering that not all paints are suitable for coating zinc-containing primer.

Review of zinc-containing primers (3 videos)

Products from different manufacturers (25 photos)

The most famous remedies

Tsinkar

This rust converter is most often used when working with a specific metal and works best with steel. A special chemical composition: salt, zinc and manganese, affects the affected area from several sides at once. It not only destroys corrosion, but also forms a protective film on the metal.

The highly toxic drug is not flammable, but the room in which the work is planned must have adequate ventilation.

Read more: Setting up a car's multimedia system

Chainmail

This coating will help protect ferrous metal from the adverse effects of external factors. The name speaks for itself - it can be used both for damaged metal and for absolutely clean metal. The manufacturer allows its use before painting as a primer.

Sonax

To ensure perfect removal of rust marks and the formation of a protective layer before painting, use this converter. It can be applied to the surface either with a special tool or with a regular brush. At least two layers should be used, each of which should dry completely after at least 12 hours.

Movil with converter

If you are faced with minor signs of corrosion, this composition will cope with them perfectly. It will help remove the existing source of destruction and protect the surface from moisture and prevent new rust from appearing.

EVA-0112

The composition of this converter is quite simple. It contains orthophosphoric acid 85% and a base. Before use, it should be mixed in a certain proportion: 3 parts of the first substance to 100 parts of the second. The shelf life of the prepared solution is one day. In intact packaging, the composition can be stored for about six months at above-zero temperatures. It can be used as a primer. It is especially effective when interacting with paint based on epoxy resin. You can improve the rust converter by adding barium carbonate or benzidine to its composition. The approximate amount of the substance is 0.05 to 0.5%.