thefabricator03 wrote:
phillc54 wrote: Really nice work Bryan.
I agree, that is taking it to a whole new level!
Can you tell us a bit more about the dyes.
Thanks guys, I appreciate the kind words.
SteelFX is a chemical patina that is sprayed onto freshly polished steel. It will not work if there is mill scale and works better the brighter the surface is polished to. I always start with cold rolled steel as it doesn't take much to get it to a state that's ready for the patina. Mill scale is a pain. The patina is sprayed on and it immediately begins to react with the steel, actually creating a thin layer of copper (for the CopperFX product). There's copper sulfate in the solution I believe.
The copper is the base for some other colors such as the torch fx (red/blue). The patinas can be layered to achieve different unique results. Once the color is achieved, just a rinse with water will "lock it in". Then it is immediately dried with compressed air as it will flash rust within minutes, especially in a humid environment. I then immediately seal it with an indoor/outdoor clear lacquer, although some powder coat. I have heard mixed results about this specific product yellowing after a clear powder is applied, I think it's extra sensitive to the PC cure temps. The cost per sq. in. I've found is actually a bit cheaper or at least similar to powder coating, and the finish is much more unique and interesting, in my opinion.
Also, I've you seen in the photos you can see through the finish so it's nice to add swirls.
