Rust is called iron oxide. The appearance of rust is a sign that the metal has come into contact with either oxygen or water. The surface of pure iron is usually neutral to such effects, only a metal having certain impurities — carbon, sulfur, phosphorus, etc. — is oxidized. Sulfur oxide and carbon dioxide contained in water can also have an oxidizing effect.
The danger of rust lies in the fact that it slowly corrodes a product of steel or cast iron, gradually changing its shape and volume. Oxidation of iron plays an extremely destructive role.
In many cases, in order to avoid rust, the part is coated with a special coating, in particular, chromium oxide is used for this . But what if the oxidation process of the iron alloy has already begun?
In this case, a rust converter may help. It not only eliminates
oxidation, which gradually corrodes metal, but also creates a strong protective film from oxidation products. The rust converter is mainly used to protect structures made of carbon or low alloy steels from corrosion. The layer of iron oxide should not be more than 100 microns. The rust converter is often made from
phosphoric acid, as well as hydroxycarboxylic acid, tannin and even cement. It can be purchased in the form of an emulsion, solution or suspension.
Different types of this remedy act differently. Conventionally, they are divided into several main groups: a rust-to-soil converter for paintwork; corrosion product stabilizers that convert metal oxide hydrates to more stable chemical compounds; corrosion product converters that turn rust into sparingly soluble salts; special penetration compounds that tend to seal corrosion products.
In the choice of the method of applying the agent to the surface of the steel, the viscosity of a particular agent plays the main role. Depending on its consistency, the rust transducer is applied by spraying, dipping, brushing or spraying. Before covering the metal surface with an appropriate composition, it is necessary to prepare it. It is necessary to clean off reservoir corrosion products and loose layers of rust.
Converters are contraindicated in cases where oxidation was caused by an atmosphere containing an increased amount of ammonia, hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide.
If rust has covered any parts of your car, it is worth using special types of rust-to-soil converter. They eliminate the old layer of corrosion and prevent the formation of a new layer. The product may change the color of the surface depending on the type of corrosion. First prepare the part - remove dirt and lubricants, if any. Use a wire brush to remove corrosion products. Then wash away any residual dirt from its surface. Shake the rust converter before use. The composition is applied to the prepared surface.