Metals degreasing is a mandatory surface pretreatment in a large number of industries. Wherever steel and metals are to be industrially coated or finished - whether to protect the surfaces, optimize special functions or achieve decorative effects - the surface to be coated must first be degreased. A look at the individual industries in which metallic coating and painting applications occur makes this clear.
This is how it works: Degreasing metals before industrial finishing and coating
Degreasing metals before industrial finishing and coating - this varies depending on the industry and area of application. Ultimately, it depends on whether the focus is on protection and safety, purpose and function or "just" design and aesthetics. Thorough pre-treatment of the respective metallic surfaces is crucial for fulfilling all of these aspects: Freeing them from soiling caused by grease and oil is essential for successful, reliable and high-quality coating.
But what options are there for degreasing metallic surfaces? This depends on the type and extent of contamination as well as the characteristics and requirements of the various industrial processes. A distinction can be made between the following processes, among others.
If you want to avoid chemicals such as solvents, we recommend degreasing metallic surfaces with more environmentally friendly alternatives. Water-based cleaning agents are therefore the method of choice in an increasing number of industries. Another environmentally friendly alternative is steam cleaning. Here, hot steam and high pressure are used to first dissolve and then remove the grease from the metals surface - also without the use of chemicals.
And finally, of course, there is brushing, grinding or blasting - mechanical processes. Which of these processes is actually used depends on various factors. the type of soiling, the type of metals, the production process, the environmental requirements, not to mention legal regulations - all of these have an impact on the choice of cleaning method.
Humidity is also an issue in the electronics industry. This is why electronic components and printed circuit boards are given special metals coatings that help to prevent corrosion and optimize conductivity. They are often also used for electromagnetic shielding. The metallic coatings on household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, ovens and microwaves serve more as protection against fingerprints or scratches. In the furniture industry, too, the coating is primarily used to protect against wear, but of course also to emphasize the design.
Things are much more robust in the shipbuilding industry. Hulls, decks and equipment are often made of metals with special coatings that are resistant to salt water, rust and the specific climatic environmental conditions. The mechanical engineering sector is also demanding, albeit in a different way. Machine parts and machine components in industrial plants and production lines are often given a coating that reduces friction on the one hand and optimizes service life on the other. Medical technology is a completely different field. In addition to medical devices with metallic components, there are also implants made of metals. Corrosion protection is important for both applications, but for implants in particular, the aim is to improve biocompatibility.
Making metals grease-free is a complex task
Iron, steel and stainless steel cannot be degreased just like that. Just as little as other metals. Dust, stains and spots, dirt and soiling caused by oils and greases - all of these can be cleaned in very different ways from case to case. Be it by wiping, brushing, polishing, stripping, sanding or a combination of these. Venjakob offers you the entire spectrum. We develop a solution for your task of making metals grease-free. Something that is precisely tailored to your requirements. Everything to help you solve your problem.
Degreasing metals means ensuring the quality of the paintwork
All right, the coating of a metals surface fulfills various functions, is good for durability and safety and looks good to boot. But why, some may ask, this extraordinary effort of degreasing. What justifies the development of complete degreasing systems and the emergence of independent industrial production of these systems? There are some very important reasons.
The first and most important reason is adhesion. Contamination from greases, oils and lubricants can form a thin film on metallic surfaces - for example on iron, steel or aluminum - which acts as a barrier between the surface and the coating, limiting the adhesion of the paint. This impairs the finish, it can lead to blistering and sometimes even to the coating peeling off. And this is no longer just a visual problem, it is detrimental to quality and functionality.
Another reason is the uniformity and smoothness of the coating and paintwork - the aforementioned finish. Degreasing the metallic surfaces ensures that the paint is applied smoothly and evenly. Contamination can lead to an uneven spot that affects the appearance of the industrial finishing. If you think this problem is marginal, just imagine such a spot on your new car.
In any case, the decisive factor is long-term durability: a thoroughly and carefully cleaned surface provides the best basis for optimum adhesion of the paint. This is linked to the long-term durability of the coating. This prevents or reduces flaking, peeling and rust formation and, in turn, increases the service life of the product.
And that brings us to the big picture. Ultimately, careful degreasing of the surface ensures the quality of the end product. And if this quality is impaired, there are usually costs involved in rectifying these defects. Either through repair or through a high level of rejects. You can save yourself both. By thoroughly degreasing metallic surfaces. Ideally with a customized degreasing system from Venjakob.
Interested? In how we degrease metals?
Conclusion: You can't do without degreasing. Degreasing metals before industrial finishing is a must if the quality of the end product is to be right at the end of the day. This makes a degreasing system an indispensable component in your painting process. We will be happy to develop a customized solution for you. Gladly as part of a complete system.
We are happy to advise you
We develop solutions that optimize processes and improve results - reliably, efficiently and precisely tailored to your system. We will be happy to advise you personally on individual solutions for all aspects of metals degreasing.

Gert große Deters
Business Unit Manager for General Industry & Automotive
Telephone: +49 5242 9603-184E-mail: ed.bokajnev@sretedessorg.treg



