Metal has a number of advantages, which is why it is so popular in various fields. However, one of the negative qualities is considered to be susceptibility to corrosion.
To combat this deficiency, a rust converter (modifier) was created. When used strictly according to the instructions, the removal of corrosion products and the prevention of its occurrence in the future are guaranteed.
Content
What is it, what is it for, how does it work?
A rust converter is a chemical compound.
How does it work? After applying to the damaged area included in most modifiers orthophosphoric acid affects iron oxides, especially iron(III) oxide.
As a result of the chemical reaction, a protective barrier is created by converting corrosion products.
If the converter contains zinc compounds, then the principle of operation looks different. Zinc atoms combine with oxygen, thereby forming a film. It provides protection and prevents the formation of rust in the future.
Additional components also take part in the chemical reaction, responsible for ensuring the inactive state of the protective layer formed on the surface.
You can find out what a zinc rust converter is and how it works. here.
Varieties
There are many options for rust converters. Each of them differs in composition and principle of interaction with corrosion products.
The main types include:
- Simple. The basis is one active ingredient - phosphoric acid. Blocking the oxidation process is achieved through a chemical reaction with corrosion elements. Stable inactive compounds are formed. The disadvantage is the need to remove unreacted acid residues after using the converter. Otherwise, they will cause rust.
- Difficult. The composition includes several active ingredients: phosphoric acid, zinc and manganese salts. As a result of the decomposition of iron oxides under the influence of phosphoric acid, phosphates are formed. In parallel with this process, the salts react, a protective barrier is created, and acid residues are neutralized.
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Primer. A distinctive characteristic is the creation of a primer layer on the surface. Particularly relevant before applying paint and varnish coatings.Release form: two solutions. One includes phosphoric acid, the second - salts. Before use, the solutions are mixed. The shelf life of the resulting mixture is limited to 5 days.
- Neutralizing. It is an impregnation consisting of a paint base and substances (inhibitors) that suppress or delay the development of the corrosion process. After applying the rust converter to the surface, the inhibitors form a protective film.
- Film-forming from petroleum compounds. There are two generations: I and II. First generation formulations include petroleum polymer resins, solvent, additives and various inhibitors. After surface treatment, a soft protective film is formed, which does not have high strength. Therefore, the coating needs to regularly update the protective layer.
Second generation formulations are distinguished by the presence of a water-based solvent. They form a stable layer that guarantees protection not only from rust, but also from mechanical damage.
Recommendations for use
To improve the efficiency of the rust converter, it must be applied correctly. A certain sequence of operations is recommended.
There are three main stages:
Preparatory. Before applying the converter, the surface needs to be cleaned of dust and dirt. Then the damaged area should be degreased using a solvent.- Basic. This involves directly treating the surface with a rust converter.
To do this, it is necessary to use the most suitable product based on the consistency and composition of the drug to ensure maximum coverage of the damaged area.
- Final. Involves the removal of converter residues after a chemical reaction, if required by the instructions for use of this drug. Some products do not need to be washed off.
A prerequisite is also to measure the thickness of the rust layer. The acceptable parameter is 0.1 mm.
How to wash it off?
Some rust converters do not need to be washed off after application.However, most formulations require removal of residues from the treated surface. Otherwise, the opposite effect will occur - rust will appear.
There are several useful tips on how and with what to wash off the modifier rust:
The converter should be washed off after the treated surface has dried;- It is recommended to use special products - silicone remover or white spirit;
- in the absence of a special product, you can use laundry soap, which neutralizes the unreacted acid;
- after removing the remaining converter, the surface should be thoroughly rinsed with water;
- moisture must be removed with a dry cloth.
It is recommended to prepare everything you need in advance in order to wash off the modifier in a timely manner. This guarantees not only the removal of rust, but also the absence of leaks from the converter. He will tell you how to wash off the rust converter. this article.
Selection rules
Before purchasing a rust modifier, it is recommended to analyze the purpose of its further use, since each drug interacts with metal differently.
To restore the damaged surface of the body, it is recommended to opt for a primer. If it is necessary to treat areas that are not subject to further staining, then the best option is products with the addition of special stabilizers.
The cost, as a rule, is slightly higher, but the result is an order of magnitude superior to little-known companies.This is explained by constant testing of products, control of all stages of product creation by well-known manufacturers.
The release form should also be taken into account.. Before painting, it is advisable to use a concentrated composition. If the area to be treated is large, then it is advisable to opt for an aerosol. This will greatly simplify the application process.
Price and where to buy?
There is a wide selection of rust converters on the market.
The most budget option costs about 100 rubles. The price of expensive modifiers ranges from 4,000 to 4,500 rubles. Such a significant difference is explained by the manufacturer, composition and volume.
Having chosen the appropriate option, you can order it online or purchase it in a specialized store. In this case, preference should be given to sellers with a good reputation. This acts as a kind of guarantee for the purchase of a quality product.
Top 5 best
When choosing a rust converter, you should also take into account their demand in the market. As a rule, the more popular the product, the more effective it is..
The top 5 best modifiers are as follows:
| Name | pros | Minuses | Price |
| Tsinkar | eliminates corrosion products, forms a protective film | highly toxic | 500 ml ? 180 rubles |
| Sonax | converts rust into a stable primer layer | must be applied in two layers | 125 ml ? 675 rubles |
| Hi-Gear | ease of use, ability to process hard-to-reach places | high acid content, the composition can corrode the paintwork | 255 g ? 700 rubles |
| Wurth | environmentally friendly, reliably prevents corrosion | contact with the painted surface is unacceptable | 1 l? 3510 rubles |
| Laurel | does not contain aggressive acids, removes rust over large areas | Requires reapplication to improve effectiveness | 480 ml ? 225 rubles |
The above modifiers have proven themselves to be the best. According to reviews, they effectively remove corrosion products. At the same time, the cost is quite adequate. The rating of the best rust converters is presented in this publications.
Is it possible to make a rust modifier yourself?
If it is impossible to purchase a modifier, you can make it yourself. The simplest way is to mix phosphoric acid with water in a ratio of 6:4. However, finding acid is sometimes quite difficult.
In this case, you can use the following recipe:
- 1.5-2 liters of boiled water;
- 1.5-2 l of citric or oxalic acid;
- 15 g baking soda.
First you need to mix the first two ingredients. After this you should add soda. The reaction lasts about 35 minutes. The converter is ready for use.
It is recommended to apply the resulting solution to the damaged area with a cloth made from natural materials.. During the process, it is necessary to ensure that the surface remains wet for at least 15-20 minutes.
You can learn how to make a rust converter yourself here.
Safety precautions
When using rust converters, regardless of the composition and manufacturer, safety precautions must be observed.
Main events:
- Before use, it is recommended to test the product on unnecessary parts to prevent unwanted effects.
- All work should be carried out in a well-ventilated area or in the open air. This will reduce the impact of toxic substances on the human body.
- When treating a surface with a rust modifier, you must wear rubber gloves, safety glasses and a mask or respirator. The area of open areas of the body should be minimal. Since contact with the skin can cause burns.
You can learn how to properly use a rust converter Here.
Conclusion
Rust converter is a fairly effective means of combating corrosion. Consequently, the composition assumes the presence of toxic and aggressive components to varying degrees.
In order not to harm your own health, it is recommended to choose proven modifiers, observe safety precautions during use.
