Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

November, 2006

Cleaning Parts Before Applying Zinc Phosphate

Q. How do you clean contaminated equipment used in the zinc phosphate dipping application and associated pipe work?

A: The zinc phosphate process comprises multiple stages, the firs of which are for degreasing. Most commonly the first stage comprises an aqueous degreaser and this is followed by at least one rinse stage, depending on the cleanliness of the metal required. In most cases degreasing is followed by only one rinse tank, but if you need especially clean parts one would consider adding a second stage.

Your pretreatment vendor will be able to advise you of the most appropriate degreaser to remove the contaminants on your parts.

Regards,

Ron Joseph