September 28, 2023
Here at ZRC, we know a thing or two about spray cans. Our cold galvanizing compounds can be administered in aerosol form and offer the same superior performance you would find in the brush-on type. We can promise this because we add propellants and other ingredients so it sprays easily and evenly out of an aerosol can. Our galvanized spray paint is low in VOC and yields a consistent dry film thickness not found in low cost solutions. This does not change the performance of the product.
In fact, ZRC's custom engineered Thixin compound affords increased reliability when applying aerosols. There are many Thixins on the market, but they’re not all the same. Our competitors often change around their compounds due to cost effectiveness and availability. We do not. ZRC uses the same formula for every batch, which is a tried and true formula.
Why Is Rust Spray a Sought-After Solution?
Galvanized spray paint is an incredibly easy solution to the problem of corrosion and rust that will accumulate on metal structures. This application option is preferred for a number of different reasons. Aerosol spray cans are a vital tool in a variety of professions and for a wide range of tasks. Everyone from welders to structural engineers to construction foremen should have a can of ZRC aerosol spray handy and ready to be used whenever a project calls for it.
For example, if you need to climb a 40-foot broadcast tower to apply a cold galvanizing spray, would you rather bring a 5-gallon bucket of paint or a 12-oz rust spray can? Putting a rust spray can in your tool belt is clearly the easier mode of application. This is just one of the reasons people choose cold galvanizing compound spray.
On top of that, rust spray is the best product for your project if you're simply touching up an existing corrosion protection solution. Much like a can of spray paint, you can shake up your can of cold galvanized compound and apply it directly to any blemished areas of coating. Aerosol will also work well for new projects that focus on preventing corrosion on smaller surface areas. We also recommend the aerosol spray for marine application, as it is easier to get the product in and on all of the oddly-shaped parts of a boat.
Will the Anti Corrosion Spray Clog?
ZRC manufactures our aerosols under the strict ISO 9001-2015 quality control procedure, ensuring maximum reliability and effectiveness of our cans. While we manufacture the best zinc-rich cold galvanizing spray on the market, sometimes aerosols can clog due to the nature of the product.
There are times where your can isn’t ready to be used, though. Your can is clogged up and shaking it isn’t enough to fix the issue. You need to clear it out! Thankfully, this isn’t difficult to do. Here are a few tips to help you avoid this frustrating occurrence. Say goodbye to wasted paint and hello to DIY success with our expert advice. Read now and learn how to save money while achieving professional anti-rust results.
Solution #1 Ensure the Contents Are Properly Mixed
Make sure you thoroughly shake and mix the contents of the can. We recommend that you continue shaking the can upside down for two minutes after the agitator balls start rattling. This is most important when you are using zinc-rich paints which contain high levels of zinc that may have settled.
Solution #2 Be Sure to Clear the Valve After Using
When you finish spraying, turn the can upside down and spray a little paint away from you. This clears the valve of paint residue, and fills it with propellant that will not harden and clog. The mist will change its color to clear when the valve is empty.
Solution #3 Replace the Nozzle and Clean It
Remove the nozzle from the can. Soak it in warm water for about 10 to 15 minutes. Place the aerosol can in warm water for a few minutes to increase the temperature of the paint inside. Warm paint is more likely to flow smoothly and could help unclog the nozzle.
Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the nozzle. This can help remove any paint buildup without damaging the nozzle. Sometimes, the clog might be on one side of the nozzle opening. Try rotating the nozzle to a different position and scrubbing again. Then, put it back into the water and gently shake the nozzle in the water to help dislodge any dried paint.
Solution #4 Loosen the Agitator Balls
To help loosen the agitator balls quickly, try a sharp tap of the bottom of the can against a metal surface.
Solution #5 Keep Contents in Suspension
As you are spraying, continue to shake the can to keep all the contents in suspension. To understand why, it helps to know a bit about the science involved in a rust spray. Inside a galvanized spray paint can, liquid paint is mixed with pressurized gas. Inside the can, the compressed gas remains in liquid form when it is at room temperature. Shaking helps to mix the liquefied gas and paint together.
Solution #6 Replace the Spray Nozzle Tip
When all else fails, replace the little actuator button on top. It may have clogged - not the valve. Be sure to use the same size tip. Even though they all look alike, all tips are not the same. Using an incorrect tip could be dangerous, so make sure you’re using the right one.
Other Ways to Save Money in Rust Prevention
You’ll save money by unclogging your can rather than throwing it away, but what about the metal structure itself? Another, and arguably even better, way to save money is to ensure you’re not letting your metal structures rust away but rather being proactive with your rust prevention. This is a big reason ZRC has withstood the test of time with demonstrated success on many thousands of projects around the world over the past 70 years. In The Total Cost of Corrosion: Comparing Using ZRC vs. Replacing the Metal Structure, you’ll see actual facts and figures that back up how expensive it is to let your metal assets rust away and how affordable it is to use a corrosion preventive compound instead. Download your free copy right away to learn more.
