At Pilkington, we understand metal and metal finishing. Our comprehensive pretreatment and finishing processes are unrivaled in Utah and the Mountain West. We utilize the same cutting-edge technology that major automotive and appliance industries rely on to keep their products looking great and performing for years. The result: a premium finish that endures over time . . . everytime.

When it comes to metal finishing, what you don't know can hurt you!

What you should know . . .

If you are not attentive to the crucial preparation process before the finish coat is applied, you may end up with great-looking piece that quickly succumbs to rust and corrosion.

At Pilkington, what we know can save your product . . . your company . . . and even your reputation.

What causes Corrosion anyway?

There are three catalysts for corrosion:

• OXYGEN
• WATER
• METALLIC SALTS

An 'unclean' metal surface - or substrate - can become the breeding-ground for corrosion. A sloppy or non-existant pre-treatment leaves trace particles of organic and inorganic soils, which are then covered and hidden in the finish process. This 'unclean' surface will eventually react with water and oxygen, causing it to degrade and fail.

So, how do we take the bite out of corrosion?

1. By keeping oxygen, water and metallic salts away from the surface. We do this by starting with a clean surface, a REALLY CLEAN surface! In order to ensure a corrosion-resistant metal, it must undergo a comprehensive cleaning, 'pre-treatment' process that removes all organic and inorganic soils.

2. By enhancing the adhesion properties of the metal surface or substrate. In other words, helping the finish coat stick to the metal. After it has been thoroughly cleaned, the next step is to chemically convert the surface of the metal into a 'finish-friendly' layer that greatly improves metals' adhesion and durability.

3. Create layers with chemicals or finishes, which act as barriers to corrosion. The finish coat provides a great barrier to corrosion. Underneath that superior finish we offer additional defenses such as, Iron Primer or Zinc Primer coats, or Iron Phosphate or Zinc Phosphate baths - all of which fight the corrosive elements of metal and extend the life and beauty of your product.

What type of metal are you finishing? What is it's end use?

It is important to know . . . not all metals deserve or need the same process.

How you answered the questions will determine what pretreatment your project will undergo. Because properties vary according to the metal types and processes, each must be used in a different way. The same is true when considering how the metal is used, (i.e., and aluminum piece that is going to be used indoors does not require the same treatment as an welded steel piece being used outdoors). We can personally help you get the best finish, call us today for a free consultation. To help you understand how the different steps or pre-treatment and finish processes click on the various links on the left of the page to see what can be helpful to your project.