There’s much more to industrial coatings than simply choosing the right one for your equipment. If you want paint or powder coatings to provide the highest levels of protection for heavy-duty machinery in the field or on the production line, the surface must be prepared so it provides the ideal conditions for adhesion. Rhinehart Finishing offers comprehensive zinc phosphate pretreatment to ensure proper adhesion as well as ongoing corrosion protection.
Before we apply your selected coating, we pretreat the surface of the equipment. Zinc phosphate crystals form a microcrystalline structure on the metal, creating a layer that paint and powder coatings can cling to more effectively than on a bare surface. This process is compatible with a wide range of industrial finishing techniques, and it is commonplace in industries with exceptionally high standards for coating performance such as construction, automotive, heavy equipment, and military/defense. Our extensive expertise with this zinc phosphate coating process means we deliver high levels of precision and consistency for our customers.
How the Zinc Phosphate Pretreatment Process Works
Rhinehart Finishing uses proven techniques for zinc phosphate coatings for pretreatment as well as extensive quality control to ensure the best possible results. We begin with a thorough cleaning and degreasing to remove all surface contaminants from the part. This is crucial for achieving complete coverage and adhesion. Next, a surface conditioner is applied to help activate the zinc phosphate reaction. We then apply the zinc phosphate, either by spraying it directly onto the part or by immersing the part in a bath. Automated control systems maintain consistent chemistry and temperature of the zinc phosphate for optimal results. When completed, the part or equipment will be covered with a layer of microscopic crystals that creates an ideal surface for paint or powder coating to cling to during application.
Our pretreatment process includes numerous quality checks, including coating weight measurement and visual inspections. These are to ensure we maintain the same high level of quality throughout the procedure and provide our customers with the best possible outcomes for their equipment. We’ve also made sure our pretreatment procedures are as sustainable as they can be, with waste minimized to help our clients meet their compliance requirements.
Benefits of Zinc Phosphate Pretreatment
For machinery and components that are expected to stand up to extreme conditions and heavy use, the zinc phosphate pretreatment process is critical for protection. By acting as a protective barrier underneath the coating, the zinc phosphate helps to reduce the level of oxidation on the metal surface. One of the key zinc phosphate coating benefits is how it offers corrosion protection and extends the lifespan of any metal components that may be exposed to moisture, heat, and wear.
The microcrystalline structure the process creates also serves an important purpose by giving paint and powder coating more surface area to which it can stick. This improves adhesion and helps reduce the risk of peeling, blistering, or flaking after application. It also helps prevent finishes from peeling or flaking after application. This is why the pretreatment process is so important for industries including the construction, military, and industrial equipment sectors. Our ISO-certified phosphate conversion coating system provides customers with high levels of repeatability and reliability.
Zinc Phosphate Pretreatment Applications Across Industries
Some of the most common applications of zinc phosphate pretreatment include:
- Automotive frames
- Construction machinery
- Agricultural equipment
- Military-grade machines
Zinc phosphate pretreatment is compatible with a wide range of metals, including steel and iron. As an experienced provider of pretreatment services, Rhinehart Finishing has the expertise to ensure high-performance surface preparation for coatings including powder coating and CARC coatings.
Why Choose Rhinehart Finishing for Pretreatment Needs
Our commitment to quality can be seen in our Department of Defense certification and use of military-grade phosphate systems. This means we can provide our customers with the highest standards of protection no matter what their equipment is called to do in the field. We offer pretreatment capabilities alongside our powder coating, painting, and packaging services, making us a one-stop shop for practically any finishing capabilities our customers may need.
We’re the pretreatment providers of choice for clients across a broad spectrum of highly demanding industries thanks in no small part to our precision-driven processes. In addition, we also offer sustainable practices and proven durability in the final finish, ensuring lower maintenance requirements, consistent performance, and reduced rework. Get in touch with one of our representatives today to request a quote and learn more about what we can do for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What metals are compatible with zinc phosphate pretreatment?
Primarily, the zinc phosphate coating process is used on ferrous metals such as steel and iron. However, in some cases it can be adapted to be used on galvanized surfaces.
How does zinc phosphate compare to iron phosphate?
Iron phosphate pretreatment may seem like the more-economical choice, but it is not as robust as zinc phosphate. Because it doesn’t provide the same level of performance in terms of coating adhesion or corrosion protection, iron phosphate surface treatment is better suited for consumer goods that won’t be subjected to the same harsh usage and conditions as heavy equipment.
Is zinc phosphate pretreatment environmentally safe?
Modern formulations of zinc phosphate have been formulated to comply with environmental standards. This includes using low-heavy-metal or non-toxic chemistries whenever possible. Rhinehart Finishing’s practices include careful wastewater treatment and filtration to support clients’ sustainability and compliance needs.
Can zinc phosphate be used before powder coating?
Yes, this is one of the most effective pretreatments for powder coating application.
How long does the zinc phosphate process take?
The processing time depends on the size of the part, its complexity, and line configuration. On automated lines, the industrial metal pretreatment process typically takes only a few minutes.