Bilt Hamber Hydrate-80
Bilt Hamber Hydrate-80 is a water-based rust converter and protective barrier system designed to treat partially prepared, rusted steel and provide a stable surface for subsequent painting or coating. Rather than simply covering corrosion, Hydrate-80 chemically stabilises existing iron oxides while forming a tough, adherent barrier that helps prevent further corrosion.
Hydrate-80 is particularly useful where completely removing corrosion from pitted or difficult-to-reach steel would be impractical. Its low viscosity allows it to penetrate and wet out corrosion effectively, while its electrochemical action converts the remaining corrosion into a protective metal complex. The resulting barrier is non-rubbery and provides an excellent base for further coatings, paints or anti-corrosion waxes.
It can be used in automotive restoration, chassis repairs, machinery, structural steel and other applications involving corroded steel. Bilt-Hamber recommends mechanically removing loose and flaky corrosion before treatment so that the active ingredients can reach the remaining oxidised steel. Hydrate-80 can be applied by brush or spray, although brush application is preferred.
Hydrate-80 is available in 500ml, 1 litre and 5 litre sizes, allowing you to choose the quantity appropriate for the job. Bilt-Hamber states a coverage of approximately 8–10 m² per litre.
How to use
Remove loose and flaky rust using a wire brush, abrasive paper or suitable power tools. Thoroughly degrease the surface and wash away dust and contaminants with clean water before allowing the area to dry.
Shake Hydrate-80 thoroughly and transfer the required amount to a non-metallic container. Do not return unused product to the original container.
Apply two thin coats approximately 30 minutes apart. Work the first coat into pitted areas before smoothing it with the brush in one direction. Apply the second coat at approximately 90° to the first. Avoid excessive application.
For optimum performance, allow the treated surface to cure for approximately 24 hours before applying finishing coats. Where faster progress is required, Bilt-Hamber states that Hydrate-80 can generally be overcoated after approximately three hours without loss of performance.
Hydrate-80 can be overcoated with suitable paint systems once cured. Bilt-Hamber specifically recommends Epoxy-Mastic as a compatible coating; products such as Electrox and Etchweld should not be applied over cured Hydrate-80 because they require direct contact with bare steel.
Important: Hydrate-80 is a rust converter, not a substitute for mechanical rust removal. It is intended to convert and protect the remaining corrosion after loose and flaky rust has been removed. It should not be used as the primary treatment for heavily contaminated, inaccessible cavities; Bilt-Hamber recommends Dynax-S50 for those applications.
