Preparing the substrate is the most important step that has a direct impact on the durability of the applied system. In addition to removing loose fragments of the existing coating, it is also very important to clean the surface of any dirt such as dust, dirt, oil, grease, etc. Skipping this step or using inappropriate preparations worsens the adhesion of the new coating to the structure.  

Why should you not use universal thinners or gasoline to degrease steel?

Products often used to degrease structures are universal thinners or gasoline . We advise against using universal thinners for a simple reason - they are used to dilute , not remove greasy dirt.

Degreasing steel by spraying the structure with gasoline

Cleaning the structure with gasoline is perfectly acceptable, but it must be done carefully. White spirit and extraction spirit are available on the market. For this type of application, we recommend using white spirit because it is less greasy and odorless than white spirit. The best way is to spray the structure with gasoline and then wipe it with a clean cloth. Gasoline evaporates almost immediately, so it should be done efficiently and quickly to avoid situations where dirt remains on the ground and the gasoline evaporates. We do not recommend soaking a cloth in gasoline and then washing the structure - this may result in rubbing the dirt rather than removing it.

Degreasing steel using Emulsol RN-1 water-soluble concentrate

To ensure that the structure has been properly cleaned, we recommend using Emulsol RN-1 . It is a concentrate that can be diluted with water , making it very efficient. Perfect for cleaning:

  • black steel, 
  • zinc, 
  • cast iron 
  • or non-ferrous metals. 

Usually, a 0.5l package of concentrate after dilution with water is enough to degrease 20-50m 2 (depending on the degree of dirt). It is very important to rinse the structure again with clean water after washing - in order to get rid of any concentrate residue. The product is biodegradable and is used in low concentration (3-4%) , so there is no problem when it flows into the sewage system or into the ground.

Application methods:

  • manually (brush, brush, mop or rag),
  • shower (high pressure washers),
  • immersion method (tubs with circulating baths, ultrasonic baths).

If there is no greasy dirt on the structure, but only dust, it is enough to wash the surface with water under pressure .