Do I need to wash off the rust converter before painting: types of products

Metal corrosion is a destructive, lattice-destroying, redox chemical process. In most cases, it is provoked by the high chemical activity of the metal itself. High humidity against the background of low temperatures, aggressive salt, acidic/alkaline environment contribute to the development of the process. The corrosion problem can be solved with the help of a rust converter, which must be washed off to make the product more effective. Otherwise, the metal underneath the layer that appears will rot even more actively.

How to wash off rust converter

It is necessary to wash off the rust converter before painting the metal. If the active components of the chemical solution remain on it, the surface will begin to deteriorate and corrosion will worsen. Without washing off the rust converter, the applied paint coating will not adhere and will lose its strength.

Chemicals made on the basis of orthophosphoric acid are able to partially remain on the metal without completely coming into contact with decay processes. Under favorable conditions, the metal begins to rust, even more intensely than before.Most anti-rust products do not replace primer and do not provide high-quality adhesion.

Water

You can treat the metal after the rust converter using ordinary water. From the means at hand, you will need a sponge with a hard side. Mechanical cleaning will more effectively remove residues from the chemical solution.

Silicone degreaser

You can clean the metal after it has been treated with a rust converter by using silicone degreasers (washes). After their application, the working surface is completely ready for the final stage - applying a high-quality paint and varnish coating. To achieve the most positive result, the wash is used twice.

White Spirit

Use white spirit in its pure form, applying it to the metal. But with precautions:

1. Use special clothing to avoid contact with skin.
2. Use a respirator to protect your respiratory system.
3. Ensure good ventilation in the room.
4. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight to prevent fire.
5. In case of fire, use sand and foam.

Soda solution

A soda solution is also used to remove rust converter residues. But its concentration must be quite high. Before use, you need to stir it well, and after moistening a hard sponge, apply it to the work surface. The consistency used should be similar to store-bought sour cream, but not too thick. Baking soda is mixed with plain water.

For the best effect, after applying to a metal surface, you need to give the paste some time to work. The optimal duration of the procedure is 30 minutes.After mechanical cleaning, the metal is washed with water. This method is good for small stains. If the metal surface is large, then you will need a lot of such a baking soda-based product, and it will also take time to process.

Alcohol

Another option for washing off rust converter residues is an alcohol solution. Vodka will also work to neutralize the chemical.

Laundry soap

Laundry soap is a universal remedy. It can be used not only in everyday life, but also for washing off a chemical solution against corrosion on metal surfaces. But first it must be grated and diluted with water in a suitable container. The ratio of components is arbitrary. A solution based on laundry soap can effectively neutralize acid and improve the quality of adhesion.

Rust converter without rinsing

There are primers with zinc on sale that are designed to remove rust from metal surfaces. One of their advantages is that there is no need for further rinsing with water. The product reliably protects the metal from atmospheric and climatic influences. Due to the resulting primer layer, the quality of adhesion with any paint and varnish materials increases.

Recommendations to help

To be sure to get rid of corrosion on metal, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

1. If the thickness of the rust layer is more than 0.1 mm, ordinary cleaning of the working surface will not work. You should use a rust converter.
2. It is recommended to use chemicals only after reading the instructions.
3. High efficiency from the work done can be achieved if the product is rubbed in thoroughly and distributed evenly over the entire surface.
4. If there are oily areas, the metal surface must first be degreased.
5. Paints and varnishes should be applied only after the remover on the metal has completely dried.

Corrosion on metal surfaces can only be avoided with an integrated approach. One of the stages is the use of a rust converter. But you can’t leave it without washing, otherwise the topcoat won’t stick. For these purposes, you can use both special chemicals and ordinary ones, such as baking soda, water, laundry soap. When working with rust converter, it is recommended to follow safety precautions, protecting the skin, respiratory organs, and eyes from contact with hazardous substances.