Light galvanizing will often require that supplementary protective coatings be applied, particularly for exterior exposure. Upon completion of this step, the steel is rinsed with water and moves to the fluxing tank. It is important to know the age of the galvanized steel that will be painted as the age dictates how much cleaning and profiling needs to be done. When cleaning a galvanized surface prior to painting, the goal is to remove any dirt, grease or oils. Variations in coating appearance do not affect the corrosion resistance of the product. Start with a layer of primer made especially for use on metal, which will help the new paint bond to the surface. If an etching solution is used, it must be thoroughly rinsed prior to applying any coating. The information provided herein is not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of the AGA. At the same time, care must be taken not to remove too much of the galvanized coating. It also has surface contaminants (oils, greases, residues, etc.) Although a noble thought, it is actually more important that a non-alkyd, adhesive primer be used, as adhesion of the primer to the galvanized steel is the most important factor. Partially weathered galvanized steel is the most common galvanized surface condition when painting, and also the most difficult to prepare. The material is purchased as electrogalvanized with a clear chromate conversion coating steel… © 2020 American Galvanizers Association, Extend Life of Previously Galvanized Steel. The problem with painting galvanised metal is that the surface when new is very shiny and smooth, making it difficult for paint to stick to the surface. Please try again in a minute. This will allow any lightly adhered oxides to be washed from the surface. left on … We are trying to apply a coating over a formed steel part. Once you rinse it with water, you should apply a primer that is made just for galvanized metal; this step helps ensure that the paint sticks to the surface without peeling over time. Common sense might dictate that a rust preventative primer be applied to improve the corrosion resistance. Galvanized steel can be divided into three categories: newly galvanized steel, partially weathered galvanized steel and fully weathered galvanized steel. Like any surface, metal will often … Fortunately, for anyone who has ever wanted to paint galvanized steel… This material provides general information only and is not intended as a substitute for competent professional examination and verification as to suitability and applicability. The following excerpts should help galvanizers ensure quality surface preparation for paint over hot-dip galvanized steel. The hot dipped coating has a hardness of between 170-250 DPH (Diamond Pyramid Hardness) as compared to the soft non-abrasion resistant coating of zinc rich paint … Terms of Use • However, galvanized metal can be quite difficult to work with especially when it comes to paint. The more zinc that is removed from the surface, the less corrosion protection provided. The galvanized coating adheres to the steel at around 3600 psi, where other coatings, like zinc rich painting and zinc plating, adhere to the steel at a rate of 300-600 psi at best. Newsletter Signup: Sign up for Galvanizing Insights, the AGA's quarterly specifier e-newsletter. Menu • Much of the galvanized steel installed in the environment is left uncoated; however, when specified, protective coatings can be successfully applied for enhanced barrier protection and aesthetic needs. If these two things are done correctly, a compatible paint system should have no problem adhering to the galvanized surface. This zinc-rich paint is meant to cover up blemishes or … Polish the metal with ammonia and sand any rough areas. Each type of galvanized steel must be prepared slightly different because the galvanized surface has different characteristics at each stage of weathering. As some cleaners may react differently with different paint systems, the paint manufacturer should be consulted for specific cleaning instructions. The purpose of the zinc immersion is purely for preservation of the steel. With more than 120 company stores in California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, and more than 80 authorized dealers throughout the Southwest, Dunn-Edwards is one of the nation’s largest independent manufacturers and distributors of architectural, industrial and high performance paints and paint supplies. A powerful degreaser will cut through dirt, grime, mold, and other problematic residue without affecting the temperamental zinc coating. How to paint galvanized metal: Clean the surface with warm or hot soapy water. Q: I have galvanized steel railings that were painted a few years ago with two coats of epoxy paint. NO, Are you still looking for the right answer? Now it is peeling off in large chunks. When painting, treat galvanized metal as non-ferrous. If you’ve ever attempted to paint over galvanized steel, you probably know that it doesn’t adhere the best. When painting Galvanised steel you have to be aware that some primers and metal paints are not suitable. These silvery, spangled metals seem to withstand the test of time, resisting corrosion without any protective coating applied. Rinse with water and let completely dry. Successful duplex systems stem from good communication with the galvanizer and paint manufacturer, as well as appropriate surface preparation and paint selection. Clean the surface with warm or hot soapy water. These factors critically contribute to the creation of a long-lasting, effective duplex system. Select shopping experience to find products and pricing. Many products have been galvanized and painted successfully for … Painting galvanized steel requires careful preparation and a good understanding of both painting and galvanizing. In addition to Duplex Systems: Painting Over Hot Dip Galvanized  Steel, a new instructional DVD entitled Preparing Hot Dip Galvanized Steel for Paint is now available from the AGA. Selecting the correct paint … New galvanized metal, a product used to make corrugated sheets, gutters, and downspouts, is usually smooth and is coated with either a layer of oil to prevent white rust or is passivated. Once the steel has progressed through these stages, it is considered ready for dipping into the zinc bath at a temperature between 820-860° F. During this step, the steel reacts with the zinc in a matter of minutes, creating an iron-zinc alloy at the point of contact. These products are available in all industrial tint centers, please contact your local store associate or sales representative for details. If you need to refinish some metal or steel that’s rusted or in need of a new coat, cold galvanizing paints are your best bet. Past experience provides excellent historical data for how best to achieve good adhesion. Once the metal … Rinse the metal and let it dry completely for several hours. But when this thin layer wears away, the steel … Dunn-Edwards offers many product solutions for galvanized steel – ULTRASHIELD® Galvanized Metal Primer and Galv-Alum are available in all store locations. Galvanized steel or metal is a common building material. In the simplest terms, the zinc has been applied to the base steel through a process called “Hot Dip Galvanizing” or “Immersion Galvanizing”. Once the dip has been completed, the galvanized steel is removed and is either air or water quench cooled. Galvanized water pipes are a necessary, but often unattractive, feature in many homes. Surface preparation is a critical factor in achieving good paint adhesion. Dunn-Edwards has produced and sold premium paint products for more than 90 years and is the #1 Choice of Painting Professionals. YES       Each individual project raises unique reasons why a duplex system should be utilized. Quick Links • Whether the galvanized steel has been allowed to age in the environment or is newly installed, the surface must be cleaned using an appropriate cleaner-degreaser followed by a Brush-Off Blast (SSPC-SP16) or chemical etching solution. Please wait, your files will be ready for download in a minute... An error happened while processing your download request. By studying past adhesion failures and successes, galvanizers, paint companies, researchers, paint contractors, and other sources have created an ASTM specification detailing the process and procedures for preparing hot-dip galvanized steel for painting. The most common process for galvanizing steel is through the hot dip or immersion method. 1998. | Painting over Galvanizing. That's great for preventing rust, but it also prevents solid paint adhesion. Polish the metal with ammonia and sand any rough areas. In many instances … The fabricated steel will go through a series of steps resulting in a complete coating of heavy zinc. aga@galvanizeit.org, Site Map • The layer of zinc on the steel protects it from corrosion, but it also rejects paint. Paint the surface with primer and let dry. The following is a quick introduction for the process: Preparation of galvanized steel before painting. Over a fairly short period, sometimes weeks, saponification will cause the paint film to delaminate or peel. I have any interesting problem. Painting over electrogalvanized/chromated steel. You then can use nearly any type of paint on the metal… Not only does the zinc coating protect the steel by creating a barrier, but it also serves as a sacrificial anode in the event the bare steel is exposed to the environment through a scratch or break in the zinc. Have you ever wondered why certain metals in the environment appear to be impervious to corrosion? Alkaline cleaning, ammonia cleaning, and solvent cleaning are the most common ways of removing dirt from a galvanized surface. Was this answer helpful? The keys to getting paint to stick include properly cleaning off the surface residue and avoiding oil-based paint. Apply the Sherwin-Williams paint and primer to a galvanized roof with a paintbrush or a roller specifically designed for corrugated metal. A. The problem lies in … These high performance acrylic coatings are suitable for properly prepared galvanized steel and will accept any alkyd, acrylic or two component product as a finish coat. The painting of hot dip galvanized steel is an orthodox and well-proven practice in outdoor environments, both in Australia (AS/NZS 46801) and internationally2. How to prepare zinc coated galvanized sheet metal for painting so that the primer and paint sticks. Again, care must be taken not to damage the galvanized coating. Clean the steel with a chemical degreaser. The two keys to surface preparation are cleaning and profiling the steel. If galvanized metal is not prepared and painted properly, it will tend to peel over time. We also offer Sanitile 120 and Galoseal from Carboline, XIM UMA from Rust-Oleum and Devcryl 1440 from Devoe. Hammerite Direct to Galvanised Metal Paint is specially formulated for application straight onto non-rusting metal, such as galvanised steel, aluminum, copper and brass, as a primer and topcoat in one. Clean the surface. Before painting galvanized metal, such as drip strips around eaves or roof flashing, take the following steps so the paint will adhere properly and not peel: Go over the metal with a wire brush to remove any oxidation. Direct to Galvanised Metal Paint. The following is a list of some of the most common reasons duplex systems are specified: Depending on the steel chemistry, galvanizing bath chemistry and the age of the galvanized coating, each galvanized steel piece may be very different from the next. FILES ARE READYPlease click the button below to start downloading. Preparation is key to preparing metal for paint adhesion and long-lasting protection. There is a wide array of reasons for using a duplex system, ranging from financial benefits to safety. Rinse the metal with a weak solution of … For best results, the galvanized steel should be permitted to weather or age in the field. Galvanized metal is steel coated with a thin layer of zinc oxide. American Galvanizers Association In this step, the steel is immersed in an acid tank, usually hydrochloric or sulfuric, to remove any oxides or mil scale remaining on the steel. Proceed in small sections until you’ve cleaned the entire surface. The zinc oxide forms a barrier that protects the steel from corrosion. Wipe the galvanized surface down with white vinegar. Clean new galvanized metal surfaces with a water based cleaner/degreaser to remove any oil or and contaminants. Fax: 720.554.0909, General Information In this process, the steel is typically dipped in an electrolyte solution of zinc sulfate. Privacy Policy • Galvanized steel is coated with a thin layer of oil and passivator that protects it from water and weather damage. One of the problems associated with painting galvanized steel is the application of an oily or waxy treatment at the mill to prevent the zinc from white rusting (formation of zinc oxide on the … After the steel receives a caustic cleaning, it is rinsed with water and moves on to the pickling step. We refer to this kind of galvanizing as batch galvanizing or after-fabrication, heavy duty galvanizing. Hot dip galvanizing is coating of metallic zinc bonded with steel to form a source of corrosion protection for steel. Here's how to paint galvanized metal: Wash the metal thoroughly with hot soapy water. Partially weathered galvanized steel (exposed to the atmosphere from 48 hours to one year) can contain a wide range of the surface contaminants previously described. The partially weathered surface condition is present from two days to about one year after galvanizing, … Ask an Expert. Once these steps are completed, the galvanized steel can be coated. 6881 South Holly Circle, Suite 108 However, there are examples of early failures … Spray the surface with the solution, then scrub it with a clean, lint-free cloth. Not just any primer can be applied to galvanized steel. Galvanization protects the steel in the same fashion a zinc anode or plate protects the submerged portion of a boat motor – through sacrificial protection. Coat the … © 2020 American Galvanizers Association. Painting galvanized steel requires careful preparation and a good understanding of both painting and galvanizing. Here are directions on painting galvanized metal. The goal is to remove any dust, dirt, or other particulate buildup that could affect … Duplex Systems: Painting OverHot Dip Galvanized Steel is a publication written by AGA, detailing why and how duplex systems give optimal corrosion protection. The process begins with surface preparation and the complete removal of all oxides and other surface contaminants. Galvanized metal is coated with a layer of oil so that it won’t get rusty. Many products have been galvanized and painted successfully for decades, including automobiles and utility towers. This process results in the highest level of protection and is commonly specified for highly corrosive interior and exterior environments. Search, Home » Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use. The guide details, step-by-step, procedures to be followed for ensuring a quality duplex system. Galvanized metal is not easy to paint because of the oil-based, rust preventing coating. One of the most durable protective coatings for steel is provided by applying a polyester powder coating over hot dip galvanized steel to provide a high grade architectural finish to steel items. Painting Over Painted Metal Finally, you're ready to apply paint. This leads to the paint eventually shedding or peeling off. The vinegar is a mild acid which acts to etch the galvanized … Hammerite Direct to Galvanised Metal Paint is specially formulated as a primer, undercoat and top coat in one for application straight onto non-rusting metal, such as galvanised steel, aluminum, copper and … Filing high spots, sweep blasting, phosphating, and using wash primers or acrylic passivations are the most common methods of increasing the profile of a galvanized surface. It is critically important that alkyd or oil based primers not be used, as these kinds of products will react with the zinc oxide and produce a phenomenon called saponification. The truth is, there is a protective coating on the metal – a protective layer of zinc (Zn) has been applied through a process called galvanization. In order to provide a good adhesion profile for the paint, the galvanized surface must be flat with no protrusions and slightly roughened to provide an anchor profile for the paint system. Essentially, this process results in zinc being plated to the surface of the steel. To complicate matters even … To avoid this phenomenon, it is recommended that high performance acrylic bonding primers be specified on galvanized steel. The material provided herein has been developed to provide accurate and authoritative information about after-fabrication hot-dip galvanized steel. Simply stated, saponification is the reaction between the zinc and the fatty acids in the alkyd resin resulting in a soap like substance being formed between the surface and the coating. There are lower levels of galvanized protection typically referred to as light galvanizing, in-line galvanizing (ILG) or zinc electroplating. Highly acidic or basic cleaning solutions remove some of the zinc coating, as does high-pressure sweep blasting. The benefit of this process is that the zinc coating thickness can be controlled quite accurately and it provides a bright, spangled finish that is aesthetically pleasing. Step #2: Prepare the Metal. Available in six popular colours, Hammerite Direct to Galvanised Metal Paint … The fluxing cleans any residual oxidation created in the pickling process by immersing the steel in a combination of zinc chloride and ammonium chloride. Preparing and Painting Galvanizing Galvanizing is the application of a zinc layer to steel by a variety of methods such as hot dip, continuous or electro-deposition. When the galvanized surface is prepared correctly, paint adhesion is excellent and the duplex system becomes an even more successful method of corrosion protection. This can be achieved first through solvent cleaning (SSPC-SP1) and abrasive blasting and/or caustic cleaning. 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