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How to paint on new steel

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Greetings from SanFrancisco,

I have to paint 23--16 gauge new steel plates. I don't know anything about it.

1. Should I use brush or spray?

2. What kind of preparation?

3. These are newly made steel plate. Someone said that I have to cure the plate with vinegar (rubbing with a rag). I did that and the steel look like it's rusted. Did I do something wrong?

Please give me as much advise as possible. I was thinking about doing this over the weekend since it's sunny in San Francisco, CA.

Any Advises will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Hok To
San Francisco, California

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You did nothing wrong, leaving acetic acid on steel will tend to cause rusting. I would suggest a visit to the hardware store in your area, and tell them what you are doing with the steel, where it will end up (interior, exterior, marine environment), you will need a primer and a topcoat, after you scotchbrite the rust . Try Naval Jelly for rust removal.

Tom Pullizzi Falls Township, Pennsylvania

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I have to find out ways of finishing steel for homework but have no idea where to find the information . It is due tommorow(Monday) all the shops are shut. WHAT CAN I DO?

Amy Bell

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I work with a small manufacturing company. We produce small products that can be used around the house. (paint can holders, garden tools etc..) Most of our products are made from 1/4 inch hot rolled steel. One of our products is made from 1/8 Inch steel plate. We are having difficulty finding a fast drying paint that won't chip. Currently the paint we use takes a minimum of 24 hours to dry and chips easily. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Thanks

John McDade
- Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

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+++

What about High temperature bake enamels?

I work for a drum manufacturer. The drums are painted and dry twenty minutes later ready for shipping.

Toby Martin
- Oshawa, Ontario, Canada