Heat-resistant paint for metal: types and advice of choice

In the structure of building structures, communication equipment and in finishing coatings, metal is often used. Despite the introduction of strong and wear-resistant plastics in the construction sector, the traditional material remains relevant due to its characteristics and affordability. It is usually used in places with high operational loads, among which are thermal effects. But even steel is not able to fully retain its original technical and physical qualities in conditions of extreme temperatures. Therefore, to provide protection, a heat-resistant paint for metal is used, among the functions of which a decorative effect is also noted. The need for such design arises in different situations, but with a competent choice of composition, the result justifies all expectations.

Features of heat-resistant paints

The applied heat-resistant coating practically does not differ in appearance from the traditional treatment with paint and varnish composition. Differences are manifested in the process of exploitation, when the usual means are destroyed under the influence of high temperatures. In turn, heat-resistant paint for metal exhibits such properties as resistance to thermal effects and preservation of the original structure. Anti-corrosion protection is also used as an additional, and often the main, function of such formulations. The complex of these properties provides a multi-faceted barrier to various threats.

In this case, the sources of negative impact may also differ. It depends on the purpose of the structure in which the material is used. For example, today, heat resistant paint is common, which not only withstands extreme temperature conditions, but also withstand an open flame. However, the preservation of the claimed qualities of the coating does not always work, and in such cases the heat-resistant paint for the metal for the furnaces begins to exfoliate, lose its original shade and collapse. This means that the composition is not chosen correctly. Prevent such errors can be, if initially correctly to compare the requirements for the protection of metal with the characteristics of the paint.

Main characteristics

The main thing that should be guided when choosing a heat-resistant paint is the maximum temperature index, 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 means that can withstand the threshold of 1000 ° C. Such compositions can be used in the processing of production equipment that contacts molten metals. If a heat-resistant paint for metal is required for the barbecue, the limit of thermal exposure can be at a level of 500 ° C. Also, attention should be paid to the temperature at which paint and varnish operations are possible. This spectrum considerably already and on the 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 get ready for use in 72 hours.

Classification of formulations

Characteristics of the product largely determines the basis of paint. So, there are compositions made with the use of acrylic and alkyd resins, ether-epoxy components, silicone substances, etc. For household needs, special grades of acrylic mixtures are usually produced that can withstand thermal effects of the order of 100 ˚C. Such paint can paint the equipment of heating systems - for example, batteries, radiators and boilers. Then follows the compositions on an epoxy basis, which are able to withstand already up to 400 ° C. This is the optimum heat-resistant metal paint for furnaces and fireplaces, which also provides structures and corrosion protection. The most persistent are mixtures made with the use of silicone components. The operating parameters of durability allow the use of such coatings at 700 ° C.

Heat-resistant enamels and aerosols

Means of this category are more functional and, as a rule, point-oriented to perform certain protective functions. The features of refractory enamels, for example, include the possibility of using at low temperatures. That is, if the design will be used in conditions of sharp changes, then it is necessary to choose enamels. There is also a fairly wide range of applications, which not all the designs boast heat-resistant paint for metal. In particular, the spray can be sprayed onto titanium, steel and aluminum surfaces while providing corrosion protection. Of course, standard paints with a heat-resistant effect also cope with such tasks, but the ecological safety and moisture resistance characterize a rather narrow group of such means.

What form of release is preferred?

Again, the choice is between paints and aerosol. Actually, proceed from the requirements for ease of use. As practice shows, in many aspects of the technique of application it is more convenient to use aerosol. It comes in a can and does not require special preparation in the form of stirring - it is enough to shake it. But the possibility of using aerosol in hard-to-reach places is much more important, where it is more difficult to cope with a brush. On the other hand, heat-resistant paint for metal has many advantages. Such a release format implies a more affordable price and in some cases contributes to the high speed of painting.

Manufacturers of heat-resistant paints

Almost all manufacturers of paint and varnish compositions have in their lines individual models of paints with heat-resistant qualities. The largest manufacturer Tikkurila, in particular, has mastered the method of making coatings on silicone resin. Such paints are characterized by high drying speed and are optimal for heating equipment. For interior works Elcon enamel is suitable. The temperature limit of the representatives of this brand will impress a few, but the absence of toxic fumes and ecological purity make such products a worthy option for domestic needs. Also popular is the heat-resistant paint for metal "Zerta", some modifications of which are made on the basis of organosilicon components. As the users note, the premium formulations of this brand stably withstand the temperature at 700 ° C.

Self-preparation of heat-resistant paint

One of the most reliable ways of preparing such a paint at home involves the use of aluminum dust. This method prepares the so-called silver, which is characterized by its ability to withstand up to 350 ° C. This method is often used if a heat-resistant paint for metal for furnaces is required. With your own hands, the composition can be prepared on the basis of a conventional varnish or synthetic linseed oil - the main thing is to choose a good solvent. The active component in this case is the aluminum dust mentioned above. As a rule, two parts of the dry mass are diluted in five portions of the varnish. First of all, the powder is poured into the container, and then the lacquer component is added, after which the mixture is mixed until it is uniform.

Coating technique

Painting works with heat-resistant compositions are carried out according to general principles, but they require an initial preparation of the base. The metal surface must be cleaned of rust, scale and traces of old coatings. Direct application of the mixture is then carried out. If a heat-resistant paint for metal is used in a typical release form, then a brush or roller should be used. In the case of surface treatment with aerosol, no special tool is required - spraying is performed directly through the can.

Conclusion

The durability of the whole structure depends on the quality of the composition chosen to protect the metal surface. The very use of this material, as a rule, is caused by high requirements to the durability of the object, while the outer covering acts only as an auxiliary means of providing protection. Sometimes it is required and the combination of several functions in one layer - this combination, in particular, provides anti-corrosion paint for metal, heat-resistant. For a barbecue, for example, this combination is particularly advantageous due to possible contacts of the structure with water in the conditions of its outdoor operation. If it is planned to use paint inside the premises, then environmental safety comes first. Such requirements are also applied to the compositions that cover equipment in saunas and bath rooms.