Scale and Oxide Removal for Improved Coating Performance
The formation of scale and oxides in welding and laser cutting applications is a natural occurrence and troublesome for paint shops. Traditionally, applicators have utilized mechanical methods and strong acid pickles for scale and oxide removal. Recent developments in near-neutral pH chemistries offer excellent scale removal, improving both paint adhesion and corrosion resistance while eliminating disadvantages of conventional methods. These processes are highly versatile, suitable for spray and immersion applications and can easily be implemented in existing pretreatment washers.
Brandon Lloyd - Atotech Group
False Beliefs About Zirconium Pretreatments
Zirconium-based pretreatments are environmentally friendly replacements for iron phosphate, zinc phosphate, and chromate conversion coatings. This next-generation technology is being used on a variety of substrates, including steel, galvanized steel, and aluminum. Zirconium pretreatments have been used commercially for over a decade but have not captured a major share of the market despite advantages such as the elimination of toxic compounds, cost savings, ease of use, and performance. This session will explore the current state of zirconium pretreatment.
Daniel Goebbert and Rashid Zakeri - Circle Prosco, Inc.