Is it necessary and what is the best way to remove rust converter from metal before painting?

When corrosion occurs on metal, the solution to the problem is to use a rust converter.

As a result of a chemical reaction with corrosion products, it is eliminated, and a protective layer is formed on the surface, preventing further damage to the metal.

Do I need to wash off the rust converter from the metal before painting, what is the best way to wash it off? You will find answers to questions in the article.

Is it necessary and why to wash off the composition?

Rust modifiers are chemical products consisting of special compounds. In the process of exposure of corrosion areas to the rust converter, the oxide forms of iron are converted into phosphates.

In order for the process to be as successful as possible, the surface must be prepared - it is thoroughly cleaned, trying to remove the loose layer.

After the active reaction of the chemical and rust has finished, you can begin washing off. This is done after the metal surface has dried. At this stage, the surface is cleaned with a stiff brush and treated with the selected product.

Converters can come in various forms: from liquids to thick pastes and gels. The texture of the product affects the ease of use and distribution of the drug over the surface.

Their composition can be either acid-free or acid-containing.. Most often, acid modifiers contain orthophosphoric acid.

Taking into account the composition of the drug used, it is determined whether a wash is necessary and what type. Acids are chemically active substances whose reaction can continue on the metal even after painting.

What happens if the product is not washed off?

Removing most of the converter is a necessary process. The active components of the product that remain on the metal can themselves serve as a source of surface destruction - corrosion.

Acid-containing converters, for example, those based on orthophosphoric acid, may partially remain on the surface without completely reacting with corrosion products.

Unreacted, they will continue to have a caustic effect. As a result, rusting will return and may even become more intense.

Many rust removers are not primers and do not provide reliable adhesion.

Wash options

Various means can be used to flush the converter. All of them are available and are not difficult to apply. They should be used in combination with mechanical cleaning with a stiff brush.

Water

The easiest way to wash the converter is using water. For these purposes, it is better to use a sponge with a hard side.. This will ensure thorough removal of chemical residues.

Silicone degreaser

Silicone removers (degreasers) can be used to clean the surface and remove rust modifier residues.

They improve adhesion and quality of the final coating. For the best effect, it is advisable to wash it twice..

As a result, the surface becomes prepared for further processing and application of the final composition.

White Spirit

A convenient washing option is to use white spirit. It is used in pure form, without diluting. To do this, the finished product must be applied to the surface and wiped.

Soda solution

Another washing option is to use a soda solution. It must be made very concentrated.

The video will show you how to wash off the rust converter with soda solution:

Alcohol

An alcohol solution is another way to neutralize the anti-corrosion agent used. You can even use vodka for these purposes..

Laundry soap

To wash the converter, laundry soap must be grated and diluted with water. The proportion is arbitrary. The resulting solution will not only neutralize the acid, but will also increase adhesion.

Recommendations to help

For more successful work in removing rust from metal, It is recommended to use the following tips:

1. If the rust layer is more than 0.1 mm, simply cleaning the surface may not help - you need to use a converter.
2. The use of any chemicals should be carried out only after reading the instructions for the specific product.
3. The more thoroughly you rub in and distribute the converter better, the higher the effect will be.
4. Oily areas must be degreased before treatment begins.
5. Applying the paint coating should be done only after the remover has completely dried.

Find out everything you need to know about rust converters in this section.

Conclusion

Work to restore corroded metal must include a set of measures. Among them is the use of a converter. In order for corrosion to stop and the top coating to adhere well, washing is carried out - high-quality removal of the reagent and its residues from the metal surface.