Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


-----

Coating for industrial steel desks?

We have begun to build custom industrial steel desks and are looking for the BEST rust protection we can get at an affordable price? These desks will consistently have skin contact on their tops. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! I've read about Cold Galvanizing Compound / Zinc Rich Paint spray, would this be an option? If so, would a basic clear coat be applied over it? Thanks for responding.

Jeremy Hedrick
Welder/Fabricator - Phoenix, Arizona, USA
July 30, 2008

Hi, Jeremy. Cold galvanizing is really zinc-rich paint, not real galvanizing. Galvanizing is highly rust resistant but is generally not used for decorative items that will be used inside.

I think you would get a more satisfactory look from metallic powder coatings.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
July 31, 2008

Ted is right a good product would be powder coating. However, as you highlighted "Rust" as a concern, you will need a zinc phosphate pretreatment to ensure that if the coating is damaged, rust creep will be reduced (but not eventually prevented).

Terry Hickling
Birmingham, United Kingdom
August 2, 2008