Metal is often used as part of building structures, communication equipment and finishing coatings. Despite the introduction of durable and wear-resistant plastics into the construction industry, the traditional material remains relevant due to its characteristics and affordability. It is usually used in places with increased operational loads, including thermal effects. But even steel is not able to fully maintain the original technical and physical qualities under 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 also noted. The need for such a design arises in different situations, but with the right 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 a paint and varnish composition. Differences appear during operation, when a conventional agent is destroyed under the influence of high temperatures. In turn, heat-resistant paint onmetal exhibits properties such as resistance to thermal effects and the preservation of the original structure. Also, anti-corrosion protection acts as an additional, and often the main function of such compounds. The complex of these properties provides a multifaceted barrier against various threats.
However, 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, the preservation of the declared qualities of the coating does not always work, and in such cases, the heat-resistant paint for metal for furnaces begins to peel off, lose its original shade and collapse. This means that the composition is chosen incorrectly. You can prevent such errors if you initially correctly compare the requirements for metal protection with the characteristics of the paint.
Key Features
The main thing to consider when choosing a heat-resistant paint is the maximum temperature under which the coating does not lose its performance. The average range varies from 400 to 600 °C. True, there are special tools that can withstand a threshold of 1000 ° C. Such compositions can be used in the processing of manufacturing equipment that comes into contact with molten metals. If heat-resistant paint for metal for barbecue is required, thenthe thermal exposure limit can be at the level of 500 °C. You should also pay attention to the temperature at which it is possible to carry out paint and varnish operations. This spectrum is much narrower 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 formulations are usually fully ready for use after 72 hours.
Composition classification
The characteristics of the product are largely determined by the base of the paint. So, there are compositions made using acrylic and alkyd resins, ester-epoxy components, silicone substances, etc. For domestic needs, special lines of acrylic mixtures are usually produced that can withstand temperature effects of the order of 100 ˚C. Such paint can be used to paint heating system equipment - for example, batteries, radiators and boilers. This is followed by epoxy-based compounds that can withstand up to 400 ° C. This is the optimal heat-resistant paint for metal for stoves and fireplaces, which also provides structures with anti-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 morefunctional 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 operated in conditions of sudden changes, then enamel should be chosen. A rather wide range of applications is also noted, which heat-resistant paint for metal does not boast of in all versions. The aerosol can in particular be sprayed onto titanium, steel and aluminum surfaces while providing corrosion protection. Of course, typical paints with a heat-resistant effect can also cope with such tasks, but environmental safety and moisture resistance already characterize a rather narrow group of such products.
Which release form do you prefer?
Again, the choice is between paints and aerosols. 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 comes in a 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 handle with a brush. On the other hand, heat-resistant paint for metal has many advantages. This format of release implies a more affordable cost and in some cases contributes to the high speed of painting work.
Heat-resistant paint manufacturers
Almost all manufacturers of paints and varnishes have in their lines separate models of paints with heat-resistant qualities. The largest manufacturer Tikkurila, in particular, has mastered the method of making silicone resin coatings. Such paints are characterized by a high drying speed and are optimally suited for heating equipment. Elcon enamel is suitable for interior work. The temperature limit of representatives of this brand will impress a few, but the absence of toxic fumes and environmental friendliness make such products a worthy option for domestic needs. The Zerta heat-resistant paint for metal is also popular, some modifications of which are made on the basis of organosilicon components. According to users, the premium formulations of this brand stably withstand temperatures of 700 ° C.
Self-preparation of heat-resistant paint
One of the most reliable ways to make this paint at home involves the use of aluminum dust. This method prepares the so-called silverfish, which is distinguished by its ability to withstand up to 350 ° C. This method is often used if heat-resistant paint for metal 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 mentioned aluminum dust. As a rule, two parts of the dry mass are diluted in five servings of varnish. First of all in the containerthe powder is poured, and then the varnish component is added, after which the resulting mixture is mixed until smooth.
Coating technique
Painting work with heat-resistant compounds is carried out according to general principles, but requires initial preparation of the base. The metal surface must be free of rust, scale and traces of old coatings. Next is the direct application of the mixture. If heat-resistant paint for metal is used in a standard release form, then a brush or roller should be used. In the case of surface treatment with an aerosol, no special tools are required - spraying is done directly through the can.
Conclusion
The durability of the entire structure depends on how high-quality the composition is chosen to protect the metal surface. The very use of this material, as a rule, is determined by high requirements for the resistance of the object, while the outer coating acts only as an auxiliary means of providing protection. Sometimes it is also necessary to combine several functions in one layer - such a combination, in particular, is provided by heat-resistant anti-corrosion paint for metal. For a barbecue, for example, this combination is especially beneficial due to the possible contact of the structure with water in the conditions of its outdoor operation. If you plan to use paint indoors, then environmental safety comes to the fore. Such requirements apply to the compositions that cover the equipment in saunas andbath rooms.
