INDUSTRIAL COATINGS 101

COLD GALV

Cold galvanizing compound is a single-component zinc coating used to protect bare steel from rust and corrosion. Although it is applied like paint, it is not. It gives the same protection as hot dip galvanizing. The zinc bonds to the steel to form a protective layer, and the higher the zinc content, the better the coverage and protection from rust and corrosion.

SURFACE PREP

The surface must be clean, dry steel. Use a steel brush to remove any existing rust on the surface for the entire area that will be covered in cold galvanizing compound. Also, remove any chemicals, dirt, grease, oil, silicon, etc. from the surface before applying cold galv.

APPLICATION

Cold galv can be painted on using traditional brushes, rolled, and even sprayed using a thinner. Aerosol coatings are also available. We recommend a disposable brush like a chip brush. Be sure to review the conditions for your particular brand of cold galv, but most of the compounds can be applied in a wide variety of weather conditions. Humidity can even intensify the athodic action and acceleration of the protective formation.

SHIPPING

Cold galvanizing compound can only be sent via ground or LTL. It is not allowed in the air system due to its category 3 classification for flammable liquids.

TOWER PAINT

TowerPlex coatings are designed and formulated to be durable, long-lasting protection for galvanized towers and other metal surfaces. They’re 100% acrylic and meet all federal standards for aviation safe colors.

The alkalinity of the paint etches into the zinc in galvanized surfaces unlike other ordinary enamel paints, so it actually forms a chemical bond to the tower.

PRIMER

The paint works best with its matching primer. You’ll want to prime any rusted areas. If you plan to spray on the paint, a full coat of primer is recommended.

APPLICATION

Before applying prep the surface in a similar fashion to cold galv. The paint can be applied between 50° and 110° Fahrenheit. Coverage is different for every situation, but theoretical coverage is 588 sq/feet per gallon at 1 mil dry.

It can be applied using a brush, mitt, or spray. Ideally a full wet coat is applied overlapping 50% each pass to avoid dusting. The paint should dry overnight, and avoid painting if a freeze or rain is possible in the next 24 hours.

COMPLIANCE

Use a color chart to test whether your tower needs to be painted. They are specially designed charts calibrated with color swatches which meet the FAA guidelines for aviation safe colors.