Paint and protect Corten steel metal sheet piling

This solution explains how to protect sheet piling made of Corten steel sustainably with RD-Elastometal.

The products you need

RD-Eco Powerclean

Powerful biodegradable alkaline concentrate composed of anti-flash rust additives for cleaning...

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RD-Elastometal

High performance elastomeric coating combining superior anti-corrosion and waterproofing...

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RD-Hydrograff HP Clear High...

Very resistant clear high-gloss varnish, formulated for long-term protection of surfaces...

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The problem

Regularly manufactured from Corten or Weath-ered steel, metal sheet piling is widely used in the construction industry.

Despite the fact that Corten steel is corrosion-resistant, it is sometimes useful to paint it to give it extra protection and extend its service life, or simply for aesthetic reasons.

The solution

RD Coatings offers a simple, fast-to-apply, high-performance solution with RD-Elastometal.

RD-Elastometal can be applied in just two coats directly to the surface. Being water-based, the product contains very few VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and is non-flammable. Virtually odorless, it can be applied quickly and easily, causing little inconvenience!

Painting Corten steel

RD Coatings offers RD-Elastometal in a two-coat system applied directly to the steel surface after high-pressure washing.

RD-Elastometal combines very high anticorrosive properties, elasticity, excellent adhesion to different types of substrate and UV resistance.

Risk of aggressive chemical splashes or graffiti

If there is a risk of graffiti or chemical spills, the paint system can be covered with one or two coats of RD-Hydrograff HP Clear (Transparent).

RD-Hydrograff HP Clear is a two-component, water-based polyurethane paint offering very high chemical and mechanical resistance. Its application makes it easier to clean off any graffiti. It is available in Matte, Satin and High Gloss finishes.

System

Repainting of Corten steel (color system)

	Product	Consumption	Dry film
1st layer	RD-Elastometal	0,40 kg/m² 130 s/f-g	175 µ 7 mils
2st layer	RD-Elastometal	0,40 kg/m² 130 s/f-g	175 µ 7 mils
Anti-graffiti option	RD-Hydrograff HP Clear	0,13 l/m² 285 s/f-g	50 µ 2 mils

Application conditions and work preparation

Environmental conditions (general requirements) :

• Minimum air and substrate temperatures: 10°C / 50°F for 24 hours at start of application.

• Maximum surface temperature: 55°C / 130°F.

• Maximum relative humidity: 85%.

• Surface temperature must be at least 3°C / 5°F above dew point.

/!\ Notes

• There must be no condensation on the surface during application and drying. Caution when working at the beginning or end of the season!

• From 15°C / 59°F, working conditions are comfortable and allow higher productivity.

• If the project is located in a very hot area with very intense sunshine during the day, avoid applying the system when the sun is strongest on the surface, and prefer to work early in the morning, late in the afternoon or in the shade.

Surface preparation

The surface must always be clean, dry, free of grease and contaminants. Loose rust or paint must be removed.

Accepted methods and standards :

• High-pressure cleaning to SSPC SP12 WJ4.

• High-pressure cleaner with rotating nozzle at 0° angle, minimum 180 bar / 2600 psi.

• Spray RD-Eco PowerClean and leave for 10-15 min. Rinse with high-pressure water fitted with 0° angle rotating nozzle, minimum 180 bar / 2600 psi.

Application Equipment

RD-Eco PowerClean

Low-pressure sprayer.

RD-Elastometal

Brush
Airless device: minimum pressure 180 bar / 2600 psi. Nozzle opening: 0.015 - 0.023 in.

RD-Hydrograff HP Clear

Brush and roller.
Pneumatic gun: nozzle opening 1.4 mm - pressure 4 to 6 bar (60 to 90 psi)
Airless: nozzle opening 007 to 009 - pressure +/- 70 bar (+/- 1000 psi)

Tool cleaning

Clean water only.

Product Application

RD-Eco Powerclean

Dilute between 5 and 20% in water, depending on the degree of soiling. Spray on and leave for 15 minutes. Then rinse with a high-pressure cleaner.

RD-Elastometal

Ready-to-use product. Stir mechanically a few minutes before application. Do not dilute.

Drying time: (20°C - 68°F)
Touch-dry: +/- 3 hours
Recoatable: +/- 6 hours

RD-Hydrograff HP Clear

Just before application, add component B to component A, slowly, mixing mechanically.

After mixing, allow to stand for 5-10 minutes, until air bubbles disappear.

Mixing Ratio	Clear version
Weight	B : 170gr / A : 850gr
Volume	5,5:1

Mixing time: 2 hours at 20°C / 68°F. After this time, the product is no longer applicable.

Drying time: (20°C - 68°F)
Touch-dry: 6 h
Recoatable: min. 8 h, max. 72 h, without sanding
Resistance to light to moderate handling: 3 days
Resistance to intensive handling: 7 days