What is used to prime ferrous metal?

What is used to prime ferrous metal?

• A. Litharge
• B. Red lead
• C. Fisheye
• D. Special thinner

Answer: (B)

Priming ferrous metal calls for a rust-inhibiting primer that bonds well to bare steel. Red lead (lead tetroxide) has been traditionally used because it forms a protective, adherent film that slows rust and provides a good base for the topcoat to grab onto. It acts as a durable barrier on iron and steel, which is why it’s chosen for primers on ferrous surfaces. Litharge is mainly a drying agent in drying oil paints rather than a protective primer for metal. Fisheye is the defect caused by contamination, not a primer material. Special thinner is simply a solvent and cannot prime. So red lead is the best answer.

Priming ferrous metal calls for a rust-inhibiting primer that bonds well to bare steel. Red lead (lead tetroxide) has been traditionally used because it forms a protective, adherent film that slows rust and provides a good base for the topcoat to grab onto. It acts as a durable barrier on iron and steel, which is why it’s chosen for primers on ferrous surfaces. Litharge is mainly a drying agent in drying oil paints rather than a protective primer for metal. Fisheye is the defect caused by contamination, not a primer material. Special thinner is simply a solvent and cannot prime. So red lead is the best answer.