Description
Bondall Ranex Rustbuster Gel is a thick, clingy rust converter and stain remover in a 250ml pack, made for treating rusted steel and iron before priming and painting. Instead of just masking rust, it reacts with it and turns it into a stable iron phosphate layer, so the metal is ready for an oil-based primer. It is an Australian made and owned product from the Ranex range.
About the formula
This is a phosphoric acid based gel. Because it is thick, it stays where you put it and keeps working for longer than a thin liquid would. That extra contact time helps it get into deeper rust. The gel clings to vertical, angled and textured surfaces as well as flat ones. It converts rust into iron phosphate, which forms a protective film that helps resist new rust. The same gel can also be used briefly as a stain remover on tarnished metal and on bore water and tannin stains.
Where to use it
Rust conversion: rusted steel, wrought iron and other ferrous metals that need to be treated and primed before painting.
Stain and tarnish removal: stainless steel, chrome, brass and copper, plus bore water and tannin stains. Test on a small hidden spot first.
Suitable materials include rusted steel, wrought iron and other ferrous metals, and, for short-contact cleaning, stainless steel, chrome, brass and copper. Avoid Colorbond, painted surfaces, dry concrete, antifouling paint, marble, and anodised, zincalume or galvanised surfaces.
How to use it
Wear gloves and suitable protective clothing, and test on a small, hidden area first.
Prepare: Wire brush the rusted area to remove loose scale, oil, grease and old paint. A degreaser before brushing helps with stubborn contamination. You want clean, exposed rust. Mask or cover nearby surfaces that must not be touched by the gel, such as paintwork, Colorbond, marble and galvanised metal, using painter's tape and drop cloths.
Rust conversion: Brush or roll the gel onto the rusted areas only. The surface should look dark and wet, and heavy rust needs a thick coat. Wipe any spills on surrounding paint or clean metal off straight away with a damp cloth. Leave the gel in place and do not wipe or wash it off while it works. Most jobs need 1 to 4 hours. Heavily rusted areas may need longer or a second coat, and you should wait 4 hours before re-treating. When the treated area has turned darker, finish with an oil-based primer. If residue is left on the surface, wipe it with a damp cloth and dry it.
Stain removal: Brush the gel onto the stain and work it in. Leave it for a few minutes, or up to 15 to 20 minutes for heavier stains. Do not leave it on for long periods when cleaning stains. Wipe it away with a clean dry cloth, then use a damp cloth for any residue. Clean tools and spills with water and detergent.
Important notes
Do not use zinc-rich or water-based primers over this gel, because they are not compatible. Use it only on rusted areas and keep it off paintwork and non-rusted metal. The gel reacts on contact, so read the full directions before starting. Treated metal should be primed and painted for lasting protection. Coverage depends on the surface and how bad the rust is.
Specifications
| Brand |
Bondall |
| Product |
Ranex Rustbuster Gel Rust Converter |
| Size |
250ml |
| Base |
Phosphoric acid solution (gel) |
| Application |
Paint brush or roller |
| Rust conversion time |
Typically 1 to 4 hours (allow 4 hours before re-treating) |
| Stain removal contact time |
A few minutes, up to 15 to 20 minutes for heavy stains |
| Coverage |
Up to 1 to 2 sqm per 250ml, depending on surface and rust severity |
| Topcoat compatibility |
Oil-based primer only |
| Clean up |
Water and detergent |
| Origin |
Australian made and owned |
Safety
This is a phosphoric acid based product and the manufacturer says it reacts on contact, so handle it with care. Wear gloves and other suitable protective clothing, and add eye protection when working with it. Keep it off skin, eyes and sensitive surfaces, and read the safety directions on the pack before use. Store it in its original container, out of reach of children. Always check the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet for hazard classification, first aid and storage details.
