Construction technology
Pre-Application Preparation
1. Surface Preparation
Steel surface: Must achieve Sa 2.5 or higher. Thoroughly remove rust, oil, and dust. Surface profile recommended at 30-75μm.
Other substrates: Such as aluminum alloy, galvanized steel, etc., require appropriate treatment (e.g., abrasion, conversion coating) to ensure a clean, dry, and contaminant-free surface.
2. Environmental Conditions
Temperature & Humidity: Substrate temperature should be between 5°C and 40°C, with relative humidity below 80%. The substrate temperature must be at least 3°C above the dew point to prevent condensation.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the application area, but avoid strong drafts directly on the wet film.
3. Material Preparation
Stirring: Stir each component thoroughly using a low-speed mechanical stirrer before use to avoid settlement.
Reduction: If reduction is necessary, use water Strictly follow the dosage recommended in the product TDS. Over-reduction will impair film performance.
Coating System & Number of Coats
Water-based industrial paints typically employ a composite coating system consisting of “primer—intermediate coat—topcoat.” The specific number of coats depends on design requirements and the corrosive environment.
| Coating System | Typical Application | Recommended Coats |
| Basic Protection | Mild corrosive environment, indoor equipment | 1-2 coats of topcoat OR 1 coat primer + 1 coat topcoat |
| Standard Protection | Most industrial environments, e.g., plants, steel structures | 1 coat primer + 1 coat intermediate + 1 coat topcoat |
| Heavy-Duty Protection | Harsh environments, e.g., coastal, chemical, bridges | 1 coat primer + 1-2 coats intermediate + 1-2 coats topcoat (Total up to 3-4 coats) |
Application Parameters
1. Recommended Application Tools
Spray: Airless spray is preferred. For small areas or touch-ups, air spray can be used.
Airless Spray: Nozzle size: 0.015"-0.021", Pump pressure: 1500-2500 psi(100-170 bar).
Air Spray: Nozzle size: 1.5-2.0mm, Air pressure: 4-8bar.
Brush/Roller: Suitable for pre-construction, small areas, or touch-ups only.
2. Recoat Intervals
Touch Dry: Typically 30 mins to 2 hours (environment dependent).
Minimum Recoat Interval: The shortest time before applying the next coat. Typically >2 hours. Significantly longer under low temp/high humidity.
Maximum Recoat Interval: If exceeded (e.g., 7 days), lightly abrade the existing coat before applying the next to enhance intercoat adhesion.
Important: Always refer to the specific product's TDS, as intervals vary by product and environment.
3. Dry Film Thickness (DFT)
The DFT per coat and the total system must comply with the design specification. Measure with a DFT gauge.
Key Precautions
- Safety First: Wear appropriate PPE during application: goggles, gloves, respirator, and protective clothing.
- No Mixing: Strictly prohibit mixing with oil-based paints, solvent-borne coatings, or waterborne paints from different manufacturers.
- Sag Control: Waterborne coatings have high density. Avoid applying too thick in a single coat. Use the "multiple thin coats" principle to prevent sagging.
- Flash-off Time: Allow sufficient flash-off time (touch dry) after each coat before force-drying (if any) or applying the next coat.
- Tool Cleaning: Clean all equipment and tools immediately after use with clean water. Once the film cures, it becomes extremely difficult to remove.
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