Pre-Treating Processes
Iron and Zinc Phosphate
At P&M Industrial Finishing, we know that proper surface preparation is critical for long-lasting, high-performance coatings. That’s why we offer a range of proven pre-treating processes to ensure optimal adhesion, corrosion resistance, and finish quality.
Cleaning Processes
Cleaning is the essential first step in any coating process. Without thorough cleaning, coatings can fail to properly adhere—compromising both durability and performance.
Vapor Degreasing
Utilizes distilled solvent in a multi-stage process—hot wash, cold rinse, and vapor rinse—to remove oils. Parts come out dry and ready for coating with no need for additional drying.
Aqueous Cleaning
An alkaline, water-based soak and spray system. While highly effective, this method requires an additional drying stage after cleaning.
Abrasive Blasting
Uses compressed air and abrasive media to strip contaminants, rust, oxidation, and paint. This process also creates a textured surface that improves coating adhesion.
Hand Solvent Wiping
Ideal for oversized parts, this manual cleaning method uses solvent and cloths to prepare surfaces that won’t fit in standard systems.
Chemical Conversion Coatings
Chemical conversion coatings enhance adhesion, improve corrosion resistance, and provide a stable base for organic finishes.
Iron & Zinc Phosphating
Creates a textured surface for better coating adhesion and adds corrosion resistance—ideal for both general and high-performance applications. Forms a crystalline coating on ferrous and nonferrous metals that supports bonding for paints, lacquers, oils, and rust inhibitors.
Chromate & Non-Chromate
Used for aluminum and zinc-coated steel. These treatments provide corrosion protection and improve surface bonding for further coatings.
Wash Primer / Acid-Etch
A pre-treatment combining zinc chromate, magnesium silicate, and phosphoric acid. It creates a thin resin layer to stabilize and promote coating adhesion.