I just refurbished my DIY CNC plasma cutter that is actually a retired XLO knee mill.
it had rust, and a lot of cleaning later,, it is rust free.
The Turtle Wax CERAMIC coating is the "GO TO" coating ,, now, for car protection,
I thought I would try it on the bare metal.
Well, I have mixed emotions,, right now.
1) the coating is WATER BASED!! if you apply too much,, you create rust!!
2) when properly applied, and dried,, the coating seems to be working.
3) it is the easiest coating to apply EVER! Spray on a LITTLE,, wipe dry.
I think to protect a steel bench, you are gonna need multiple coats.
the surface of the steel table after any rusting has lots of nooks and crannies for a surface.
I also cleaned my welding table (6'x6'), but, nothing has been applied,, yet,,,