A zinc-rich paint protects because the zinc is in electrical contact with the steel. If there is grease, loose rust, or old paint between them, that cathodic protection does not work. That is why surface preparation is just as important as the product.
Depending on the condition of the steel
New steel
The ideal is a blast to SA 2.5 grade (ISO 8501). If that is not possible, sand with 180–220 grit or a flap disc to open the pores and remove the mill scale.
Rusted steel
Remove all loose rust with a wire brush, scraper, or disc. GALVANOL can be applied over dense, well-adhered rust, but never over rust that flakes or peels.
Painted surfaces
Old paint must be removed. The zinc must touch the metal; applied over paint, it acts only as a barrier and loses its main advantage.
Old galvanizing
Clean off the white zinc salts, degrease, and apply directly to replenish the protection.
Always degrease
Wipe with a cloth soaked in xylene to remove grease, cutting oil, and fingerprints. Allow it to evaporate before applying.
Don't wait too long
Apply within a maximum of 12 hours outdoors (48 hours indoors) after preparation. After that time, the steel will begin to rust superficially again.
Recommended tools
Steel wire brush, pad or fine-grit sandpaper, and a cloth with xylene. Everything needed for application comes in the GALVANOL 2 kg Application Kit.
Ready to protect your steel?
GALVANOL contains 96% zinc in the dry film, has been tested in an ENAC-accredited laboratory according to ISO 12944, and complies with ISO 1461 and ASTM A780. We manufacture it in Spain and ship it within 24/72 hours, free of charge to the mainland and Balearic Islands on orders over €50.
👉 GALVANOL 2 kg · GALVANOL Spray 500 ml · GALVANOL 2 kg Application Kit · How much GALVANOL do I need? calculator
