Options for low VOC clear coat finishes on steel

For years I have used various brands of lacquers to clear coat the cleaned and prepped steel in my projects. I am now looking to re-investigate this step in my fabrication process because of the high VOC levels found in most lacquers. I am wondering if their are other products that work well on steel that have relatively hard finishes and lower VOC's. I am also curious how to apply oil finishes to steel and if this might be another approach along with natural waxes. Thanks.

Hi, Barrett. One answer, although it's suited only to factory work not field work, is electrocoating (electrophoretic lacquer). Another possible answer is clear powder coating.

Personally I doubt that an oiling or waxing will be robust enough for you.

Regards,

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

You might want to talk to the people at an automotive/industrial paint supply house. Many lacquers/paints supplied for automotive and industrial use are "low VOC" materials. It may be necessary for you to use different guns and/or drying methods.