Painting rusted steel is a challenge in maintaining technical infrastructure and extending the life of industrial facilities. Professional renovation of steel structures requires specialized knowledge, precise procedures and modern technological solutions. Anti-corrosion processes determine the durability and reliability of steel structures, and this translates into the safety of the structures themselves, as well as users.
Condition diagnosis of corroded steel components
A full assessment of the condition of rusted steel involves a multi-stage technical analysis. Specialists carry out:
- accurate measurements of the thickness of the corrosion layer, identify the type and intensity of corrosion processes;
- determine the degree of degradation of the metallic structure;
- analyze the causes of corrosion foci.
The technical review determines how to remove rust before painting, and also allows the selection of the optimal strategy for the renovation of steel structures.
Technological aspects of surface preparation before painting
The main step preceding the painting of steel is the removal of rust. Specialists use modern cleaning methods, which can be divided into two main categories:
- mechanical methods;
- chemical methods.
Mechanical rust removal techniques include steel brush cleaning, sandblasting, shot blasting and surface grinding. Each of these methods requires high-end specialized equipment and technical experience.
Chemical methods of rust removal allow selective removal of corrosion layers without interfering with the basic structure of the metal. Specialized chemicals are used that dissolve and neutralize corrosion products. It is worth noting that modern anti-corrosive paints for steel (such as Elastometal or Monoguard), allow application directly to the rust, which simplifies the renovation process.
Selection of professional anti-corrosion paints for steel
The process of painting steel structures requires precise selection of protective agents. The most important parameters for the selection of paints include their weather resistance, compatibility with the metal substrate, thickness of the protective coating and durability of the anti-corrosion protection.
The spectrum of paints used includes epoxy, polyurethane, chlorinated rubber and acrylic solutions. An excellent example is NOXAN’s products, which offer effective protection even without sandblasting, significantly simplifying the renovation process.
Specialized corrosion protection techniques
Painting steel structures where corrosion outbreaks are evident requires a multi-layered, precise approach. A typical sequence of protective coatings includes a primer, interlayer, topcoat and optional additional coatings.
Advanced protection technologies include spray metallization, ceramic coatings and the use of corrosion inhibitors. RS-MAL also uses the “wet” painting method, which involves the application of specialized paints in several layers, resulting in long-lasting corrosion protection.
Consequences of negligence in anti-corrosion processes
Failure to professionally renovate steel structures leads to serious technical and economic consequences. Progressive degradation of the metal structure results in reduced strength parameters, premature technical wear and tear, and a significant increase in the cost of replacement or repair.
As an example of the consequences of neglect, consider the Caroli Bridge, one of Dresden’s most important crossings. According to Holger Kalbe of the Road and Civil Engineering Authority, corrosion was the cause of the bridge’s collapse.
The unpleasant consequences of omission will be prevented by cooperation with RS-MAL, which provides services such as condition diagnostics, steel surface cleaning, corrosion protection and specialized protective coatings.
Contact RS-MAL experts today! Protect your facilities from the destructive effects of corrosion! Also check out detailed guides on steel structure renovation:
- How to plan the renovation of a steel structure step by step
- Painting of steel structures – techniques and solutions
Ensure the longevity and reliability of your steel structures with RS-MAL’s specialized services!
