City Paints Tech Tip #1: Read the Can

Sometimes in the technical industries, the most basic procedures are often overlooked. Many mistakes and product problems stem from users not following the manufacturers’ recommended procedures that are often printed right on the can or package.

Whenever purchasing a new product or trying out a new version of an existing product, it is important to obtain the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) provided by the manufacturer. Not only will this sheet tell you how to mix the product, there will also be instructions on surface prep, recommended substrate, spray tip size, number of coats, flash times, recoat windows, and recommended film thickness. If there are any specific induction periods, pot lifes or spray viscosities, these will also be on the TDS.

When creating your paint "sandwich," there are certain paints that can't go together over one another—such as painting base coat over polyester primer. Some etching primer should need to be coated with specific primer surfaces. Plastic systems have their own set of rules, which must be followed for maximum performance of those systems.

The TDS also contains safety information, which is very important, since many of the products in the automotive industry can be hazardous to the worker if handled improperly, not only through respiratory exposure, but through eye and skin exposure as well. Many of the TDS's can be found on manufacturer's Web sites. Follow links provided through the City Paints Products page, or contact City Paints at (415) 626–1790 for additional information.

Dan Fox
City paints