This technical decision guide helps steel fabricators, coating contractors and project teams move from the condition of the steel to the surface-preparation, inspection and coating-handover decisions that need to be agreed. It does not replace the project specification or coating-system requirements.
Mill scale, rust, old coatings, grease, fabrication residues, pitting, welds and complex geometry can all affect the work package. Establish what is present and what the next treatment requires before assuming a preparation method.
Surface cleanliness, profile and the removal of contaminants are related but separate considerations. SteelConstruction.info explains that BS EN ISO 8501-1 communicates visual cleanliness grades and that surface profile must also be considered for the coating system. Read the external technical reference, then confirm the actual project specification.
Before work starts, clarify the surface condition, required finish, coating data where available, geometry, access, inspection basis and programme interface. The published Birmingham structural-steel framework case study records an example of Sa 2.5 preparation before intumescent fire protection; read the recorded case study for its full project context.
Discuss a steel surface-preparation scope with UK Shot Blasting Services. Call 07721 375756 or request a site visit.