October 2024 | Rebuild from A to Z: painting
15/07/2024 - 15:52
When rebuilding valves from A to Z, painting is an absolute must. It is the finishing touch that neatly completes all efforts. A refurbished valve works as well as new, so it should also look that way.
Prior to painting, all surfaces of the valve gate must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dust, dirt, grease, and other contaminants. This can be done using solvents, water jet cleaning, or sandblasting. Ensure that all surfaces are smooth and free of rust.
Since cast iron is porous, there is a risk of moisture retention. If moisture is present on the surface to be painted or coated, it can become trapped under the paint or coating layer. Therefore, always ensure that the valve is completely dry before painting to avoid rust formation and reduced adhesion.
The paint can be applied with a brush, roller, or spray gun, depending on the size and shape of the valve gate and the paint specifications. Using a spray gun often provides the most even coverage.
