Introduction
Corrosion is the silent enemy of metal, costing industries and homeowners in Pakistan millions annually. In coastal cities like Karachi with high salinity, or in industrial zones with chemical exposure, protecting steel and iron structures is not just maintenance it’s a necessity. Zinc Spray by Soudal is a professional-grade, high-zinc content (98%) aerosol coating designed to provide superior cathodic (galvanic) protection to metal surfaces. Offering a sprayable alternative to hot-dip galvanizing, it is an economical, effective, and reliable solution for combating rust on everything from vehicle underbodies to structural steel, water tanks, and railings. This guide explains why Zinc Spray is a critical product in the corrosion-fighting arsenal across Pakistan.
What is Soudal Zinc Spray?
Soudal Zinc Spray is a high-performance coating based on a mixture of zinc compound and epoxy-ester. It dries physically to form a tough, matt grey film containing 98% zinc, which acts as a sacrificial anode. This means it corrodes in place of the underlying base metal (iron/steel), providing long-term “galvanizing” protection even if the coating is scratched a property known as cathodic protection.
Key Technical Specifications
- Basis:Zinc compound with epoxy-ester.
- Zinc Content:98%.
- Consistency:Fluid.
- Curing:Physical drying.
- Drying Time:Dust dry in 10–15 mins, tack-free in 20–30 mins (at 23°C/50% RH).
- Fully Cured & Paintable:After 24 hours.
- Temperature Resistance:-30°C to +350°C (Excellent for engine parts, exhausts).
- Coverage (Yield): 1.5 m² per 400ml can (2 layers).
- Packaging:400 ml Aerosol.
- Shelf Life:3 years in unopened, cool, dry storage.
- Standard:Conforms to ASTM A780–93 (Standard for Repair of Damaged Hot-Dip Galvanized Coatings).
Top Benefits of Using Zinc Spray in Pakistan
- Superior Cathodic Protection: The high 98% zinc content ensures true galvanic action, offering long-term rust prevention even in Pakistan’s humid, saline, and industrial atmospheres.
- Excellent Mechanical Resistance: Provides good resistance to shocks, rubbing, and erosion, making it durable on high-wear areas like vehicle chassis, machinery, and weld joints.
- Weldable & Conductive: The dried coating is suitable for spot welding and is a good electrical conductor, maintaining grounding paths — a crucial feature for automotive and electrical applications.
- High-Temperature Resistant: Withstands temperatures up to 350°C, protecting exhaust systems, engine components, and industrial equipment.
- Cost-Effective Galvanizing Repair: The most economical way to repair damaged hot-dip galvanized coatings or to protect new steelwork without the cost of factory galvanizing.
- Easy Application: Comes in a convenient aerosol for on-site, touch-up, or complete project use without needing specialized equipment.
Primary Applications in Pakistan
- Automotive & Transport:Protecting vehicle underbodies, chassis, wheel arches, trailer frames, and exhaust systems from rust and road salts.
- Industrial Maintenance:Corrosion protection for structural steel, pipework, storage tanks, conveyor frames, machinery, and platforms in factories.
- Infrastructure & Construction:Guarding iron railings, gates, water tanks, gutter braces, rooftop structures, and reinforcement bars (rebar) from atmospheric corrosion.
- Marine & Coastal Applications:Essential for boats, docks, and any metal structures exposed to salty air in Karachi, Gwadar, and other coastal areas.
- Repair & Fabrication Workshops:Ideal for protecting weld seams, joints, and repaired areas on metal fabrications before they are put into service.
Step-by-Step Application Guide for Best Results
- Surface Preparation (MOST CRITICAL STEP):Remove all loose rust, scale, old paint, grease, and dirt using a wire brush, sandblasting, or grinding. Surface must be clean, dry, and sound.
- Priming (if needed):On severely corroded or bare steel, consider a rust converter primer for best results, though Zinc Spray can be applied directly.
- Shaking & Application:Shake the can vigorously for at least 60 seconds. Hold the can 20 cm (8 inches) from the surface. Apply the first coat in smooth, even passes.
- Re-coating:Allow the first coat to dry for a minimum of 2 hours. Apply the second coat in the same manner. Two layers are mandatory for effective, pin-hole-free protection.
- Drying & Top Coating:Allow the final coat to cure for 24 hours before exposing to weather or applying any desired topcoat paint (paintable with most systems).
- Valve Cleaning:After use, turn the can upside down and spray for 3 seconds to clear the valve of zinc residues, preventing clogging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How is this different from regular anti-rust paint?
Regular paint forms a passive barrier. Once scratched, rust starts underneath. Zinc Spray provides active (cathodic) protection. The zinc sacrificially corrodes to protect the steel, even at scratches or cut edges, just like hot-dip galvanizing.
Q2: Can it be painted over?
Yes, after 24 hours of curing, the Zinc Spray coating can be over-painted with most oil-based, epoxy, or acrylic topcoats for aesthetic or additional chemical resistance.
Q3: Is it suitable for outdoor water tanks (overhead/underground)?
Absolutely. It provides excellent corrosion protection for metal water tanks. Ensure proper surface prep and apply a minimum of two coats. For potable water tanks, ensure the topcoat (if used) is certified for drinking water contact.
Q4: What is the coverage area?
One 400ml can covers approximately 1.5 square meters when applied in two recommended layers. Coverage may vary based on surface texture and application technique.
Q5: Can it be used on already rusted surfaces?
Loose rust must be removed completely. The product is designed to protect bare or lightly rusted metal. For heavily rusted surfaces, mechanical cleaning or use of a rust converter prior to application is strongly recommended.
Why Choose PATSA for Soudal Zinc Spray
PATSA Pakistan, the authorized distributor of Soudal in Pakistan, delivers world-class corrosion protection solutions with local expertise. Choosing Soudal Zinc Spray through PATSA ensures you get a scientifically formulated, ASTM-compliant product designed for Pakistan’s environmental challenges backed by reliable stock and expert technical support for guaranteed performance.
Conclusion
Don’t let corrosion eat away at your valuable metal assets. Whether you’re a professional fabricator, a vehicle owner, or a facility manager, Soudal Zinc Spray offers an industrial-grade, convenient, and profoundly effective defense against rust. It’s more than a spray; it’s a long-term investment in the durability of your metalwork.
Call to Action
Secure your metal against Pakistan’s corrosive elements. Purchase your 400ml can of Soudal Zinc Spray today from PATSA Pakistan. For large-scale project requirements or technical guidance on corrosion prevention, contact PATSA Pakistan directly and shield your steel with the power of zinc.
