8 types of metal primers and the best brands, how to apply correctly

For a primer for metal, certain characteristics and specificities of use are characteristic. They differ in composition and variety, and therefore have different properties. In order for the substance to give the desired effect, it is important to strictly observe the rules of application. Before using the composition, it is worth preparing the surface well. Compliance with the technique of application to the ground is not negligible.

The importance and function of a primer on metal surfaces

Any primer contains special substances called inhibitors. They protect metal surfaces from corrosion. After applying any type of floor, a transparent protective film appears on the surface. It prevents the harmful effects of humidity, corrosion and mold.

Another function of a metal primer is to increase the adhesion between the coating and the paint or other finishing material. Before interior or exterior finishing work, it is imperative to prime the metal. This must be done before staining.

In addition, the soil has antiseptic properties. It prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Mold can quickly destroy a variety of materials, including metal. However, this can be avoided by choosing the right substance.

Principle of operation

To achieve a good effect from the application of the primer, it is important to choose the right mixture. Primers can be designed for non-ferrous and ferrous metals.

For ferrous steel, iron, alloys and cast iron, it is worth using substances that help slow down corrosion processes. These alloys suffer greatly from the effects of corrosion. Additionally, a metal primer helps achieve better adhesion for subsequent painting.

For non-ferrous metals and alloys - zinc, aluminium, brass - the application of a primer helps to obtain adhesion of the finish to the substrate. These compounds should be combined with galvanized iron and steel. In addition, compositions based on organic solvents are excellent for galvanized metal. Black metal surfaces that contain active traces of rust should be coated with converters.

With the help of a liquid, it is possible to turn corrosion into a durable film. It helps repair damage to the metal surface. Working with such formulations does not require significant preliminary purification. To achieve visible results, it is worth getting rid of surface contamination.

Among the floors for metal, it is also worth highlighting a special construction mixture.This substance helps remove stains from surfaces that do not absorb moisture. These substances block contaminants such as grease and soot.

The soil for outdoor works should be selected taking into account the climate of each region. If a substance is required for interior decoration, it is recommended to consider the operating conditions and toxicity parameters of the specific product.

Look at Also

Types and areas of application of fire-retardant paints for wood, the best brands

Thus, the use of special primers for metal surfaces allows to achieve the following results:

Protect the surface from the effects of corrosion. This is especially true for ferrous metals. These include steel, cast iron and other alloys containing iron.
Improve adhesion. Any enamel or varnish will adhere much better to the primer. The coating will not crumble under the influence of negative climatic factors. This is very important for steel and galvanized iron. This also applies to non-ferrous metals and alloys, which are hard to rust, but even harder to coat with anything without the use of a primer.
Disguise small flaws, that is, smooth the surface. This significantly saves finishing enamels and varnishes, which usually cost more than primer.
Reinforce the mechanical resistance.

If you choose the right floor, taking into account all the features of external or internal works, it will be possible to significantly increase the service life of the coating and improve the aesthetic parameters of building structures, cars, the plumbing and other metal objects.

Advantages and disadvantages of pre-priming metal

Key benefits of pre-priming metal surfaces include:

Increased resistance to mechanical and chemical factors.
Surface protection against mold and mildew. This effect is achieved due to the presence of antiseptic components in the composition.
Increase the degree of adhesion. Primer helps hold a variety of top coats securely. It is allowed to apply different types of paints or adhesives.
Heat resistance. Soil is able to withstand large temperature fluctuations.
Increased water resistance. This allows the primer to be applied to vehicles.
Excellent decorative properties. The ground is not always made colorless. It can have any shade - red, yellow, gray, black, white. There are also products that can be tinted in different colors.

It is always worth considering the fire hazard of such compounds.

In addition, the primer may contain toxic components. Therefore, it is so important to use personal protective equipment when working.

Variety of primers and recommendations for choosing

There are different types of primers that can be applied to metal surfaces - acrylic, alkyd, insulator, inhibitor.

alkyd

This type of soil should be classified as a medium with insulating and passivating properties. It provides reliable protection against corrosion.

The basis of the material is fillers with iron lead, whitewash and other ingredients. This substance is considered universal. It provides excellent adhesion with a variety of stains and finishing materials. The composition can be used as a base for acrylic paint.

Key benefits of alkyd primers include:

universal goal;
corrosion protection;
increase the degree of adhesion.

However, there are also disadvantages:

the presence of toxic components in the composition;
fire hazard.

Fast drying

This primer dries quickly. In this case, the process takes from 20 minutes to 12 hours. Quick-drying compositions are made on the basis of alkyd. They contain organic solvents. It should be borne in mind that ordinary alkyd substances dry for 2-3 days.

Look at Also

$The composition of refractory primers and the rating of the best brands, the rules of application$

The composition of refractory primers and the rating of the best brands, the rules of application

The advantages of the funds are as follows:

corrosion protection;
high degree of adhesion;
chemical resistance;
weather resistance;
power of concealment;
Versatility.

However, there are a few drawbacks:

strong smell;
high price.

Insulating

Benefits of the funds include:

Versatility;
high adhesion;
resistance to external factors.

However, insulating primers also have a number of disadvantages:

short term effect;
impossibility of staining the material.

Inhibitor

This material provides reliable protection against corrosion. After applying the substances, an enamel primer forms on the surface. Inhibitors can be water or oil soluble. An inhibitor primer combines the properties of 2 primers.

The advantages of the materials include:

corrosion protection;
variety of release forms;
universal properties.

However, there are a few drawbacks:

toxic properties;
high price.

Passivation

These materials include chromic acid salts. They help to transfer the metal from the active state to the passive state. After treatment, metals do not interact with water. In this case, the primer must contain a sufficient amount of salts. With their deficiency, there is a risk of intensification of corrosion processes.

Benefits of blends include:

increase the moisture resistance of the coating;
corrosion protection;
Versatility.

However, there are also disadvantages:

the need for a good choice of composition according to the type of surface;
the need for a sufficient amount of chromic acid salts in the composition.

Transformer

This product is also called primer. It does not require cleaning the surface from corrosion. Thanks to its application, it is possible to turn rust into a special substance that quickly crumbles.

The advantages of the materials include:

ease of use;
no need for surface preparation;
the formation of a solid film on the metal.

However, there are also disadvantages:

lack of protective properties;
the need for association with passivating agents.

Protective

The composition of such primers contains zinc, magnesium, aluminum powders that help protect the metal from corrosion. The more powder in the composition, the better the material under consideration. Primers containing zinc dust are particularly effective.

Benefits of blends include:

Versatility;
high efficiency;
excellent protective properties.

However, there are a few drawbacks:

the need for a good choice of composition;
the need for good surface preparation.

Phosphating

These soils contain solvents and phosphoric acid. They are versatile and can be applied to various types of metal surfaces. The benefits of the substances include:

high degree of adhesion;
reliable paint application.

However, there are also disadvantages:

impossibility of use for aluminum and galvanized steel;
toxicity;
low corrosion protection.

Look at Also

Composition and properties of the anti-corrosion primer, rules of use

Review of popular manufacturers

Common primer manufacturers include:

Tikkurila;
Knauf;
ceresitis;
“Prospectors”;
Weber;
Caparol.

Rules for priming metal for painting

When priming metal structures, a number of rules and recommendations should be followed.

Calculation of material consumption

The amount of materials required is usually indicated on the packaging. Specific parameters are influenced by the composition, temperature and humidity indicators, characteristics of the treated surface.

Tools required

To prime the metal, you will need:

roll;
brush;
spray gun;
soil container.

Surface preparation and working solution preparation

At the stage of preparing the surface, it is necessary to clean it. For this, dust particles and dirt are removed from the metal. It is also necessary to get rid of areas damaged by rust. This allows primer and paint to be applied more evenly.

Primer application

Before using the primer, you must read the instructions. Application may require a roller, brush or sprayer. Make the layers as thin as possible. Better to increase their number. The primer must dry completely before applying the finish. The coating can be roughened if necessary. For this, it is recommended to use sandpaper.

Coat drying time

The following factors affect the drying time of the primer:

Surface quality. On dry, porous surfaces, the material dries much faster. To speed up the process, you can degrease before using the primer.
Temperature and humidity. Optimal parameters include + 15-20 degrees and 60-80%. Before applying the primer, the room must be ventilated. After using the substance, this cannot be done, as the surface may become covered with cracks.
Layer thickness. The more coats applied, the longer the primer dries.
The composition of the mixture.Materials that contain easily volatile solids or solvents dry much faster.

Alkyd types of floors are considered the best option for processing metal surfaces. It takes 10 to 12 hours to dry them.

Soil mix storage

The primer should be stored in a container with a tightly closed lid. It is not recommended to place it near heating systems, fire sources and electrical appliances. The container should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Over time, the mass in the container may thicken. In this case, you must use a solvent.

How to Replace a Metal Primer

Some paints do not require a primer. As an alternative to the composition, HAMMERITE dye is suitable.

Recommendations from the masters

To achieve the desired effect, it is recommended to follow the advice of professionals:

Work at temperatures from -10 to +27 degrees.
Apply the solution in a thin layer. This helps it penetrate micro-cracks and form a strong film.
Apply each subsequent coat only after the previous one has completely dried. The number of layers is determined by the location of the metal structure and the conditions of its operation.
Finish immediately after primer dries. Otherwise, the surface will be covered with dust, which will negatively affect the adhesion parameters.

A metal primer is considered an effective composition that helps to increase adhesion parameters and protect the surface from negative factors. In this case, it is important to strictly follow the instructions for applying the substance.

Decoding Icons on Clothes