Useful tips on how to properly use a rust converter

Metal corrosion is a common occurrence in the absence of a good coating. The appearance of rust is facilitated by access to oxygen and exposure to a humid environment.

To prevent the spread of rust and effectively eliminate it, special preparations are used - rust converters.

We will tell you how to use rust converters correctly in this article.

What do you need to know before use?

Corrosion product converters are products that, as a result of a chemical reaction, stop the spread of rust and form a reliable polymer film on the metal.

They are produced in the form:

• pastes,
• liquids,
• gels.

Studying the instructions for the selected rust converter is a prerequisite for the success of the work.

In order for anti-rust products to be as effective as possible, the metal must be prepared for processing. It must not only be cleaned of dirt, but also loose fragments must be removed.

Depending on the size of the damaged area and the type of item that needs restoration, can be used to influence:

• metal brushes;
• scrapers;
• grinding machines;
• sandpaper, etc.

After cleaning the metal mechanically, the surface becomes prepared for processing with a converter. If cleaning is not carried out carefully, then even after using the chemical, areas with active rust may remain.

Negligence in cleaning can result in the return of corrosion.

Methods of application

Most anti-corrosion products are available ready for use.. Depending on the consistency and release form, they can be equipped with a brush for ease of application, a sprayer, etc.

General instructions for use converters:

1. Preparation. Surface cleaning.
2. Solvent degreasing of the metal area that needs rust removal.
3. Shaking the bottle (if specified in the instructions).
4. Application of the converter (in strict accordance with the instructions for the specific product).
5. Wash if necessary.
6. Solvent degreasing.
7. Transducers that do not form a primer require a primer.
8. Applying the final paint coating.

Many preparations, while transforming corrosive areas, create a primer and do not require subsequent washing and priming. For other products, washing is a mandatory stage of work, since substances remaining on the metal can themselves become a source of corrosion processes.

If the converter did not cope with the task of removing rust the first time, the treatment must be repeated. The number of repetitions is not limited.

Prohibitions and nuances

The use of converters must take into account the composition of the product and its constituent components. All drugs are divided into two main groups:

• acidic;
• acid-free.

Some converters are capable of reacting with paints and varnishes covering areas adjacent to the corrosion zone. Such drugs require very correct application.

If you are not confident in the accuracy of the work, it is better to give preference to compositions that are neutral to the paintwork. The main prohibition is not to use the converter on unprepared metal.

Precautionary measures

Rust converters are used in body work and, if necessary, to restore other metal objects damaged by rust. All products offered by manufacturers are drugs with high chemical activity.

Their use must be carried out with the obligatory observance of precautionary measures:

• high-quality ventilation at the work site;
• availability of protective equipment (gloves, goggles, respirator, etc.);
• use the product only for its intended purpose;
• storage in a place protected from children;
• use before expiration date.

Adviсe

In order for the use of converters to be as successful as possible, The following expert advice should be taken into account:

1. Work with chemicals must be carried out in personal protective equipment and with good ventilation.
2. It is advisable to degrease metal using solvents, since degreasers and thinners may not give good enough results.
3. When purchasing a converter, you must first calculate the size of the area that will have to be processed.
4. If the treatment area is large and the work needs to be carried out in a short time, it is convenient to use products in packages with a sprayer.
5. Acid-containing preparations are well suited, for example, for treating car bodies. But to protect rolled metal, fittings, pipes, the best choice may be a product based on an organic compound - tannin.
6. Liquid converters are more convenient to use for small areas of corrosion, as well as for processing small parts using the immersion method.
7. To work with inclined metal surfaces, it is advisable to give preference to preparations that have a thick consistency - they will be better distributed and will not drain.
8. It is recommended to treat hard-to-reach areas with an aerosol can - this will significantly save time.
9. The application of any of the products must be of high quality, completely covering the damaged area of ​​​​the metal.

You will find all the most important and useful information about rust converters in this section.

Video on the topic of the article

The video will show you how to use the rust converter:

Conclusion

Rust converter is a useful preparation for protecting metal, which must be used before applying varnishes and before painting. Taking into account the conditions, in each specific case it is necessary to choose a product that will effectively eliminate corrosion and will be as convenient as possible in application.