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Case Study: Restoration and Protection of Stainless Steel Street Furniture in Central London

In June 2025, BROMOCO Network was commissioned to carry out the restoration and surface conservation of several stainless steel street fixtures in a high-traffic commercial area in central London. The fixtures included fencing systems, bollards and cycle racks—most of which had been in place for over a decade without specialist maintenance.

Two workers in blue and yellow safety vests carrying black buckets walk outside a modern building. Trees and glass doors in the background.

The goal was to clean, restore, and protect these installations without removing or replacing them, and without interrupting public activity. This work was carried out under strict scheduling, within a very busy environment, and required specialist materials and methods to ensure long-term durability and corrosion resistance.


Our Challenge:

The unit in need of restoration was located along the commuter corridor and driveway of multiple commercial buildings, and the steel components suffered the following damage:

  • Surface contamination (grime, road salt buildup)

  • Corrosion (tea stains on surfaces and grounded parts)

  • Adhesive residues from signage and stickers

  • Micro-scratches from general wear and mechanical impact


Step-by-Step Process


1. Site Setup and Initial Assessment


Man in blue vest walking on city street, pulling cart with yellow hose. Background: brick buildings, greenery, and parked vans. Mood: busy.

Prior to commencing actual construction, each area was surveyed and existing conditions were documented. We conducted small-scale tests using samples and determined that the BROMOCO solution would be a perfect solution to the problems present. During the initial phase of the project, the BROMOCO Network team marked areas of corrosion and assessed the strength of the components for use and future development. We isolated small construction areas with temporary guardrails to minimise disruption to pedestrian traffic.


We worked with the property manager to arrange for power and water supply, all cleaning agents were environmentally certified, and wastewater was collected and discharged directly into the site's internal sewerage system.


2. Removing Rust and Oxides with ERW-XL


Person cleaning a metal pole on a concrete floor with a white sponge. Nearby are a black bucket and a bottle labeled "Bromoco ERW-XL."

The first stage involves the application of ERW-XL, a mild descaler and oxide remover. It is essential for removing tea stains (early signs of corrosion) and restoring a uniform appearance.

  • Use a microfibre cloth dipped in diluted ERW-XL to evenly coat the surface. Pay special attention to the welds and floor sections that are most susceptible to oxidation.

  • After a 10 to 15 minute dwell time, scrub the surface with a stainless steel safety pad.

  • We found that due to the high frequency of use of the cycle racks and swipe machine columns, the level of wear and corrosion was much higher than in other facilities. We marked them and performed two descaling processes to remove the patina and restore a satin sheen.


3.Surface Cleaning with ERW-BD


Man in blue vest cleaning a metal pole with a cloth. Wears black shirt, gloves, and boots. Background shows a building with dark panels.

After rinsing and drying, the next step is to use ERW-BD, a neutral pH stainless steel cleaner designed to remove surface dirt and oily residues without damaging the surface.

  • ERW-BD is applied using a non-abrasive microfibre cloth and a low pressure spray.

  • In areas of high carbon build-up (near road crossings), a soft nylon brush is used for agitation.

  • Treat vertical surfaces such as posts and bollards from the top down to prevent streaking.


4. Removal of Adhesive and Cleaning Agent Residues with ERW-AL


Plastic container labeled "ERW-AL Preparation Fluid" held by gloved hand. Background shows blurred outdoor setting, text details product usage.

After a second rinse and drying, use ERW-AL to spot clean areas where stickers, labels or masking tapes have left residues.


Visible adhesive stains were left on the underside of the steel posts where the logo had peeled off. These fences were cleaned with ERW-AL to completely remove the residue.


5. Final Protection with EPC-7460A Stainless Steel Sealer


Gloved hand cleaning a metal rail with a white cloth. Background shows pavement and a person's leg wearing tan boots.

The final step is to apply EPC-7460A, a stainless steel surface sealer and protector. This treatment enhances aesthetics and provides effective long-term protection against environmental contamination.

  • Apply EPC-7460A in a thin, even layer using a sponge brush and lint-free cloth.

  • Drying time is 10 to 20 minutes per surface, depending on ambient temperature and airflow.

  • The coating leaves a clear, smooth surface that resists moisture and discourages future oxidation.


One of the logistical factors to consider at this stage is the weather. Because EPC-7460A requires dry surfaces and conditions, the construction was scheduled during predicted sunny periods. To avoid contamination from foot traffic or dust, team members were stationed at each newly sealed area to ensure that the coating was left untouched until it was fully cured.

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