Material Specification
Corten Steel
Corten is a weather-resistant steel alloy that has been optimized with copper, chromium, nickel and phosphorus. When exposed to weather. Corten steel develops a rich patina which protects and has greatly boosted its popularity over the last few years.
Valmont offers this product range in two different finishing options as standard.
Valmont Corten products are designed to meet EN 40-5 standards and carry CE Certification.
Corten Finish Options: Valmont offers this product range in two different finishing options as standard.
The Natural Finish: This process is carried out to provide Corten steel a natural patina, that will result as a natural, living Corten surface.
The process starts with cleaning of the product surfaces to remove grease and any other impurities. After this the product is starting to corrode from ambient humidity. This procedure continues and accelerates once installed (environmental effects, rain and drying) and finally the product will achieve the final stage of natural patina. Depending on the location and conditions this typically takes several months.
As this method complements Corten steel’s natural characteristics, some staining (clothes etc.) may occur if the product is
touched by individuals.
The Accelerated Finish: This process features accelerated patina build-up, which provides good homogeneity of the surface finish. The rusting process is activated with a chemical, which is applied at least twice. After 3-4 days the rusting process has typically achieved its characteristics. At this point the level of rust is inspected visually, and should the aesthetics demand, additional chemical treatment with the same substance can be performed.
When the corrosion level has reached the customer’s visual demand a stopping bath is applied to halt any further corrosion. This water-based acrylic sealant also reduces Corten steel’s staining features substantially.