Metal is often used in building structures, communication equipment, and in finishing coatings. Despite the introduction of strong and wear-resistant plastics in the construction industry, the traditional material remains relevant due to its characteristics and affordability. It is usually used in places with high operational loads, including thermal effects. But even steel is not able to fully preserve the original technical and physical qualities at extreme temperatures. Therefore, to ensure protection, heat-resistant paint for metal is used, among the functions of which the creation of a decorative effect is noted. The need for such a design arises in different situations, but with a competent choice of composition, the result meets all expectations.
Features of heat-resistant paints
The applied heat-resistant coating practically does not differ in appearance from the traditional treatment with a paint and varnish composition. Differences appear during operation, when a conventional product is destroyed under the influence of high temperatures. In turn, heat-resistant paint on metal exhibits such properties as resistance to thermal effects and preservation of the original structure. Also, as an additional, and often the main function of such compositions is anti-corrosion protection. The complex of these properties provides a multifaceted barrier to various threats.
At the same time, the sources of negative impact may also differ. It depends on the purpose of the structure in which the material is used. For example, heat-resistant paint is common today, which not only withstands extreme temperature conditions, but also resists an open flame. However, maintaining the declared coating qualities does not always work, and in such cases, the heat-resistant paint for metals for furnaces begins to exfoliate, lose its original color and collapse. This means that the composition is incorrect. Such errors can be prevented if the initial requirements for protecting metal are correctly compared with paint characteristics.
Main characteristics
The main thing that you should focus on when choosing heat-resistant paint is the maximum temperature indicator, under the influence of which the coating does not lose its performance. The average range varies from 400 to 600 ° C. True, there are special tools that withstand a threshold of 1000 ° C. Such compositions can be used in the processing of manufacturing equipment that is in contact with molten metals. If heat-resistant paint on metal for barbecue is required, then the limit of thermal exposure can be at the level of 500 ° . You should also pay attention to the temperature at which it is possible to carry out paintwork operations. This spectrum significantly and on average varies from -5 to 40 ° C, although, again, there are examples of going beyond these boundaries. Another important characteristic is the polymerization time, that is, the drying period. Household compositions usually become fully available after 72 hours.
Classification of compounds
The characteristics of the product are largely determined by the basis of the paint. So, there are compositions made using acrylic and alkyd resins, ether-epoxy components, silicone substances, etc. For household needs, special lines of acrylic mixtures are usually produced that can withstand temperature effects of about 100 ˚C. Such paint can be used to paint the equipment of heating systems - for example, batteries, radiators and boilers. The following are epoxy-based formulations that can withstand up to 400 ° C. This is the optimum heat-resistant paint for metals for stoves and fireplaces, which also provides structures and corrosion protection. The most resistant are mixtures made using silicone components. Performance indicators of resistance allow the use of such coatings in conditions of 700 ° C.
Heat-resistant enamels and aerosols
Means of this category are more functional and, as a rule, are focused on the performance of certain protective functions. The features of refractory enamels, for example, include the possibility of use at low temperatures. That is, if the design will be operated in conditions of sharp changes, then enamel should be chosen. A rather wide range of applications is noted, which not all designs boast heat-resistant paint on metal. Aerosol, in particular, can be sprayed onto titanium, steel and aluminum surfaces, while providing protection against corrosion. Of course, typical paints with a heat-resistant effect can cope with such tasks, but ecological safety and moisture resistance characterize a rather narrow group of such products.
Which release form should I prefer?
Once again, the choice is between paints and spray. Actually, it follows from the requirements for ease of use. As practice shows, in many aspects of the application technique it is aerosol that is more convenient. It is supplied in a spray can and does not require special preparation in the form of stirring - just shake it. But much more important is the possibility of using an aerosol in hard-to-reach places, where it is more difficult to cope with a brush. On the other hand, heat-resistant paint for metal has many advantages. Such a format of release implies a more affordable cost and in some cases contributes to a high speed of painting work.
Heat Resistant Paint Manufacturers
Almost all manufacturers of paints and varnishes have separate models of paints with heat-resistant qualities in their lines. The largest manufacturer of Tikkurila, in particular, has mastered the method of manufacturing coatings on silicone resin. Such paints are characterized by high drying speed and are optimally suitable for heating equipment. Elcon enamel is suitable for interior work. The temperature limit of the representatives of this brand will impress a few, but the absence of toxic fumes and environmental friendliness make such products a worthy option specifically for domestic needs. Heat-resistant paint for metal “Tserta” is also popular, some modifications of which are made on the basis of organosilicon components. According to users, the premium compositions of this brand stably withstand temperatures of 700 ° C.
Self-preparation of heat-resistant paint
One of the most reliable ways to prepare such a paint at home involves the use of aluminum dust. Using this method, the so-called silverfish is prepared, characterized by its ability to withstand up to 350 ° C. This method is often used if heat-resistant metal paint for furnaces is required. With your own hands, the composition can be prepared on the basis of ordinary varnish or synthetic drying oil - the main thing is to choose a good solvent. The active component in this case will be the aforementioned aluminum dust. Typically, two parts of the dry mass is diluted in five portions of varnish. First of all, powder is poured into the container, and then the varnish component is added, after which the resulting mixture is mixed until homogeneous.
Coating technique
Painting work with heat-resistant compounds is carried out according to general principles, however, they require initial preparation of the base. The metal surface must be cleaned of rust, scale and traces of old coatings. Next is the direct application of the mixture. If heat-resistant paint is used for metal in a standard form of release, then a brush or roller should be used. In the case of surface treatment with aerosol, a special tool is not required - spraying is carried out directly through the spray can.
Conclusion
The durability of the entire structure depends on how high-quality composition is chosen to protect the metal surface. The use of this material itself, as a rule, is caused by high requirements to the resistance of the object, while the outer coating acts only as an auxiliary means of providing protection. Sometimes a combination of several functions in one layer is also required - such a combination, in particular, is provided by heat-resistant anticorrosion paint on metal . For a barbecue, for example, such a combination is especially beneficial because of possible contact of the structure with water in the conditions of its outdoor use. If it is planned to use paint indoors, then environmental safety comes to the fore. Such requirements are also imposed on the compositions that cover the equipment in saunas and bath rooms.