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TABLE
OF CONTENTS FOR THIS SECTION STERLING
STATE-OF-THE-ART
Click Info Request for literature mailing or salesperson contact. STERLING Lacquer Manufacturing Company of St. Louis, Missouri, a specialized coatings manufacturer since 1907, was one of the early developers of aviation linear polyurethane coatings. As the technology was released by raw material manufacturers on an experimental basis in the early 1960’s, STERLING rose to the occasion and supplied the coatings for a TWA tail section so the performance of this new technology could be reviewed. Using the very high standards of paint manufacturing that were pioneered by STERLING, coupled with the newly-available polyester resin reactant and isocyanate catalyst, the experimental products proved exciting! Substantially better performance, in terms of gloss retention, abrasion resistance, color retention and resistance to chemicals was immediately noticed by the airline, whereafter, with additional input from other carriers, manufacturing of a finished product for the commercial market began. For over 30 years, STERLING has been an innovator and a leader in the manufacture of polyester-based linear polyurethane coatings designed to demonstrate resistance to Skydrol, solvents, acids, alkalines, high altitude actinic radiation, impact, abrasion and, of course, general wear and tear from the erosive effects of weather phenomena. STERLING’s tough aviation finishes were found to maintain their brilliant luster, rich color and hard finish up to three times longer than ordinary coatings, without yellowing, chalking, cracking or fading as had been experienced with its forerunners. Best of all, the durable coatings were found to be virtually maintenance free, requiring only soap and water to restore the brilliant shine. The STERLING linear polyurethane is classified as a "pure" aliphatic urethane in that, based upon the polyester chemical backbone, it has not been modified with drying oils or acrylic resins, which have the capacity to reduce chemical resistance and toughness in favor of other characteristics not sought after by aircraft owners. For many years, STERLING has supplied products to companies like Cessna, Piper, Mooney, Bell, Hughes, Lockheed, Beechcraft, foreign airframe manufacturers and scores of carriers. STERLING coatings are found on U.S. Military aircraft and on the aircraft of other military forces throughout the world and while their products are regularly certified to compliance with military specifications, they also meet or exceed the specifications set out by McDonnell Douglas, Boeing, Lockheed and many others with special performance requirements and criteria.
The STERLING linear polyurethane system meets or exceeds the specifications established by corporate jet manufacturers. Hundreds of Lears, Gulfstreams, Falcons, Citations Beech jets and others, in climates of every kind around the world vividly demonstrate the long-lasting high performance characteristics of the STERLING topcoats as well as the unusual primers for which the company is well known. Because of its flexibility yet surface hardness, STERLING is suitable and is used on a wide variety of experimental aircraft, including fabric surfaces on antiques. Because of its unusual resistance to the corrosive saltwater environment, proved through untold hours of exposure as a coating on large power and sailing yachts, it is an ideal float plane coating system, far superior to many of the automotive systems frequently found in this area of the aviation market. In addition to manufacturing the finest urethane coating system presently available, STERLING manufactures specialty products such as teflon coatings for control surfaces, high temperature silicon coatings that will sustain temperatures over 1,000°F, clear urethane coatings for interiors, low infra-red reflectant coatings for the military and radome coatings for commercial and military aircraft. STERLING manufactures primer systems for nearly every substrate and topcoat systems for the demands of any airframe manufacturer’s peculiar application or performance requirements. They will match any color and they have a standard panel of over 150 aviation and marine colors which DETCO, their Newport Beach, California distributor, maintains in stock. DETCO has a highly trained internal and field sales staff with over 20 years of experience in the marketing of high performance urethanes as an adjunct to the fine products the manufacturer supplies, offering strong support to the ever-growing STERLING distribution and application network. GENERAL APPLICATION INFORMATION Surfaces to be primed should be clean, dry and free of wax, grease or other contaminants. Always wipe surfaces with C-8762 Surface Prep to remove contaminants, using the two-rag method. A rag lightly saturated with Surface Prep should be used to loosen contaminants, to be followed immediately while surface is still wet, with a clean rag wipe. Wiping rags should be clean cotton, reclaimed diapers being the ideal. Shop rags, often containing silicones and detergents should never be used. Existing oil based paint finishes, automotive lacquers and acrylic enamels should not be wiped with C-8762 for softening could well occur, leading to surface damage. Denatured alcohol or even a detergent wash are more appropriate for such surfaces. Previously painted surfaces should always be tested, before priming, with a small quantity of catalyzed primer, to make sure that existing paint is not lifted or blistered. When in doubt, a very light coat of primer one day, followed by further build, if necessary, after 24 hours, will reduce the chances of lifting or surface damage. M-3225 yellow vinyl butyrate, acid-reduced chromate wash primer is mixed 1:1 with M-3226 phosphoric acid reducer. Pre-reaction time is not necessary. Thin about 25 percent with U-1014 and apply directly to untreated and lightly sanded aluminum or steel surfaces in very minimal thickness (2-3 wet mils) as a pre-treatment primer where chemical conversion is impractical or when, for economic reasons, minimal surface treatment is desired. M-3225 can be used as the bare metal primer, then topcoated but because of its low surface hiding characteristics, it performs somewhat better when overcoated with U-1201 or U-1000 primer prior to topcoating. Importantly, it provides the least effective corrosion protection, although it is often used as the only coating on interior aluminum skins. It is important that this primer is not applied in heavy coating film or adhesion will certainly be compromised. One transparent pass is the appropriate method of application. This material may not be satisfactorily brushed. Recoating with an intermediate primer or topcoat should be accomplished within 1 hour or so. U-1201 yellow, strontium chromate epoxy primer is mixed 1:1 with U-1202 catalyst and should pre-react approximately one hour before thinning and application. U-1201 meets military aviation specification MIL-P-23377D and is an excellent anti-corrosion coating over chemically-treated aluminum or steel. An aircraft standard, U-1201 is used as a finish primer for aluminum skins, components, floats and interior surfaces, demonstrating excellent adhesion and anti-corrosive protection. Best sprayed by siphon or pressure feed, it is also well atomized by HVLP, airless or turbine equipment and it is typically thinned 30-50 percent with STERLING U-1289 reducer, depending upon the surface profile to be covered. Apply to 2-4 mil wet film thickness. U-1201 may be recoated with U-1000 intermediate primer or topcoat, when dry and up to 24 hours later without additional surface preparation. It is suitable for recoating when a powdery residue may be noted upon light abrasion. Application of intermediate primer and/or topcoats before the volatile components have evaporated, risks blistering. When an intermediate primer is used, after the U-1201 has adequately cured, final surface preparation is undertaken on the finish primer, preserving the integrity of the corrosion protective qualities of the chromate epoxy. U-1201G LOW VOC green, strontium chromate epoxy primer is mixed 2:1 with U-1202G catalyst and should pre-react 30 minutes before thinning and application. VOC is 336 g/L unthinned. More reduction, where limits are higher, will permit a smoother, sprayed film. This product is compliant as a finish aviation and marine finish chromate primer where its predecessor, U-1201, would be ruled out. It meets new Mil Spec No. Mil-P23377G, for aviation and transportation, demonstrating excellent anti-corrosion protection over chemically-treated aluminum and steel. A new aircraft standard, U-1201G may also be used as a finish primer on aluminum marine components such as spars. U-1000 white polyurethane primer, a relatively quick drying intermediate/finish primer, is mixed 2:1 with U-1000C catalyst. Requiring no pre-reaction time after thorough mixing, U-1000 may be thinned with U-1275 reducer in temperatures above 80°F, U-1014 reducer from approximately 70-80°F and with U-1385 reducer below 70°F. Proper selection of thinners will permit ample open film time for the material to flow, requiring a minimum of finish surface preparation. U-1000 may be sprayed with siphon, pressure, HVLP, turbine or airless, preferably in two passes, if build is required, allowing tack-free time between coats. Thin up to 40 percent for fine surfaces or apply with no reduction for deeper profiles, where heavy filling is indicated. Wet film can vary from 2-5 mils. U-1000 may be coated with gloss when dry, without additional surface preparation up to 24 hours after application, although it is best sanded to a 220 grit profile or at least abraded with Scotchbrite to remove any areas of adherent dry spray, prior to topcoating. U-1000 may be used directly on laminated fiberglass or gel-coat surfaces and is often used as a tie coat primer on properly prepared fabric surfaces as well. 94U-1000 LOW VOC This newer primer, a white, relatively quick drying polyurethane similar to its predecessor, U-1000, is higher in solids, covers better, requires fewer coats and shrinks less. In heavier films and cooler weather, 94U-1000 may take somewhat longer to cure to good sandability. Mix primer base 2:1 with 94U-1000C Catalyst and apply immediately as no pre-reaction time is needed. Pot life is short, about 2 hours! Use U-1014 in warmer weather or U-1385 reducer for spray application in cooler temperatures. Thin 5-10% with U-2965 for brush or roller application. To achieve 420 g/l VOC, thin up to 5%, and up to 25-30%, if desired, where limits are higher. VOC is 406 g/l unthinned. As with U-1000, a heavier film build may be produced by allowing the freshly-primed surface to become firm, whereafter subsequent coats may be applied for desired coverage. Primer may be applied full strength for maximum build or may be thinned for more even spreading, whether by brush or spray. 94U-1000 may be overcoated numerous times where more build is needed. Allow preceding film to dry until firm to the touch prior to recoating. For best results, all aluminum skins should be lightly abraded prior to surface treatment, which consists of the application of an approved acid etch, followed by conversion coating, prior to the application of anti-corrosive primer. This pre-treatment process greatly improves adhesion and corrosion resistance. ALUMIPREP 33 STERLING and other noteworthy aviation coatings manufacturers strongly endorse the use of this product, manufactured by Henkel and available with our product line, as a most effective material to use. Alumiprep 33 is an acid etching solution, designed to create a microscopic profile in the metal and at the same time, to cleanse the surface of contaminants, removing oxides of aluminum in the process. Usually diluted 2:1 with water it is best applied with a plastic scrub brush or abrasive pad over properly stripped and detailed aluminum. Indicative of an appropriate cleansing and etch is a bright aluminum surface, on which the liquid sheets completely, whereafter fresh water is used for a complete rinse. Any areas where beading is noted (as on a freshly waxed car) should be retreated. The surfaces are kept wet with water until the conversion coating is applied. Surfaces should not be allowed to dry during etching operation. ALODINE 1201 This chromic acid conversion coating also available with our line, a long time standard, endorsed by STERLING and other noteworthy aviation coatings manufacturers, is applied full strength by plastic sprayer, sponge or rag over a wet surface, following acid etch application and clean water wash. Alodine1200S powder is also acceptable, diluted to manufacturer’s recommendations with water. The Alodine solution changes the bright aluminum to a transparent watchband gold color within a few minutes, following which another water rinse is undertaken. Do not allow the aluminum surfaces to turn a dark brown color as this excess coating will preclude appropriate paint adhesion. Primer should be applied as soon as practicable after rinsed surface has dried. There are several methods of priming aluminum aircraft skins depending upon the results desired and these are carefully outlined below. The most economical method is often used on small single engine general aviation aircraft although the results are certainly not as effective from the long term corrosion prevention standpoint. We therefore recommend against the use of wash primer unless it is virtually impossible or economically impractical to use the recommended surface treatments. Certainly the most effective systems should be used on more expensive general aviation, corporate and commercial aircraft for the very best possible appearance and corrosion protection. Metal Preparation: 1. All traces of existing finish should be chemically or otherwise stripped and surfaces to be coated should be cleansed of all remaining contaminants, preferably by steam and/or hydrowash. A light sanding is advised, taking care to avoid rivet damage. 2. Acid etch surface with Alumiprep 33, thoroughly rinse with water and apply Alodine 1200S or 1201 conversion coating. Thoroughly rinse surfaces with water, allow to dry completely, taking care that all rivet heads and lap seams are blown dry with clean air and primed as soon as practicable. Primer Application See AIRCRAFT PRIMERS for more detail. 3. U-1201 primer, thinned 30-50% with U-1289 reducer, should be applied in one pass to a 2-4 wet mil coating thickness, drying to 0.5-1.0 mil. At minimal film thickness, U-1201 may be recoated after approximately 12 hours although it may remain on surfaces without the need for further abrasion, for 24 hours before recoating. A light Scotchbrite scratch may be indicated for any areas in which dry overspray is noted. U-1201G LOW VOC primer, unthinned meets low VOC regulations. It is applied in one pass to a 2-4 mil wet film thickness, drying to 1.0 mils or less. It is slower to cure than U-1201 and may take longer to safely recoat with U-1000 intermediate primer or topcoat. Be sure film is firm and lightly sandable. If cured more than 24 hours at 70°F, sanding or Scotchbrite scratch is required. When U-1201 or U-1201G surfaces are recoatable, as evidenced by complete solvent evaporation, firmness of the film and a light powdery residue from light sanding, apply a cover coat of U-1000 or 94U-1000 low VOC primer to an approximate 2 mil wet film thickness. Thinned 40-50 percent, U-1000 primer is applied so smoothly that only a light scuff is required before topcoat application, with Scotchbrite. If a heavier film profile results, should more filling be desired, areas of dry spray and uneven surface texture may be sanded with 220 abrasive before final topcoating. Allow U-1000 to dry overnight before sanding and topcoating. Apply topcoat per instructions. See AIRCRAFT TOPCOAT Metal Preparation 1. All traces of existing finish should be chemically or otherwise stripped and surfaces to be coated should be cleansed of all remaining contaminants, preferably by steam and/or hydrowash. A light sanding is advised, taking care to avoid rivet damage. 2. Acid etch surface with Alumiprep 33, thoroughly rinse with water and apply Alodine 1200S or 1201 conversion coating. Thoroughly rinse surfaces with water, allow to dry completely, taking care that all rivet heads and lap seams are blown dry with clean air and primed as soon as practicable. Primer Application 3. U-1201 primer should be applied in one pass to 2-4 wet mils. At minimal film thickness, U-1201 may be recoated after approximately 12 hours at 75F although it may remain on surfaces without the need for further abrasion, for 24 hours before recoating. A light Scotchbrite scratch may be indicated for any areas in which dry over spray is noted. U-1201G Low VOC primer, un-thinned, meets low VOC regulations. It is applied in one pass to a 2-4 mil wet film thickness, drying to 1.0 mil or less. It is slower to cure than U-1201 and may take longer to recoat with U-1000 intermediate primer or topcoat. Be sure film is firm and lightly sandable. If cured more than 24 hours at 70°F, sanding or Scotchbrite scratch is required. 4. Apply topcoat per instructions. Metal Preparation 1. If Alumiprep and Alodine applications are prevented because of environmental or economic conditions, after stripping, pressure washing and detailing, the metal may be brightened with Scotchbrite or fine abrasive and coated with M-3225 acid-reduced vinyl butyrate wash primer. This system, while often used by airframe manufacturers, will not likely provide the kind of corrosion resistance offered by those processes outlined above. Primer Application See AIRCRAFT PRIMERS for more detail. 2. Mix M-3225 primer 1:1 with M-3226 catalyst, reduce about 25 percent with U-1014 reducer and apply in one light pass to a 2-3 mil wet coating thickness, drying to 0.3-0.5 mils. Do not apply this primer in excess of specification thickness or loss of adhesion may result. Allow 30-60 minutes dry time for recoating. There is no maximum time within which M-3225 may be recoated with primer or topcoat. 3. For addition build and hiding, U-1000 primer may be applied over M-3225. Although it is not absolutely necessary and, though topcoat can be applied directly, U-1000 will help the long term corrosion resistance of the very thin M-3225 by adding an additional barrier to moisture intrusion. If used, U-1000 primer will also improve the hiding of the transparent M-3225. Simply await surface firmness of the wash primer, and apply U-1000, to be followed by topcoat. 4. Apply topcoat per instructions. PRIMING TITANIUM AND STAINLESS STEEL 1. After stripping, sand metal to eliminate all traces of oxidation and contamination. Apply Alumiprep 33 but do not use Alodine. Wipe clean with STERLING C-8762 surface prep solution. 2. Apply U-1201 or U-1201G per prior instructions. 3. Apply topcoat. 1. Smooth, fair surfaces need only be sanded to a 150-180 grit profile. Wipe thoroughly with C-8762 surface prep solution, to be followed by several passes of U-1000 or 94-U-1000 primer, as necessary, to cover any surface irregularities. Deep surface irregularities on kit planes or areas where repairs have been undertaken may be spot glazed beforehand with an appropriate low density epoxy putty such as STERLING U-4870/4871, spot primed and board sanded to surface fairness before the application of finish primer. 2. Allow U-1000 primer to dry overnight, sand to 220 grit profile and apply topcoat. Surface Preparation A wide variety of lacquers, enamels and vinyl butyrate dope preparations may be found on fabric surfaces. Existing coatings may be recoated with STERLING but should always be tested in an inconspicuous area with a light application of U-1000 beforehand to make sure that the film will not be unduly softened or lifted. If the test area remains intact, U-1000 primer should be applied after surface abrasion with 180-220 grit. Primer Application U-1000 primer is thinned approximately 50 percent, applied to a very light film thickness, just enough material for surface continuity. The first, light primer coat permits the development of some solvent resistance to the softer substrate before heavier primer or topcoat loading occurs. If additional filling is desired, allow overnight drying before applying subsequent coats of primer thinned 20-25%. If no substantial filling is needed, topcoat may be applied the day following the application of the first primer coat, scuffing only lightly beforehand with Scotchbrite to eliminate any areas of dry over-spray. New fabric surfaces should be prepared according to the supplier’s recommendations. U-1000 primer may be used as a tie coat over the last coat of the fabric manufacturer’s primer, a very light coat one day, followed by any necessary build-up applications 24 hours later to prevent solvent intrusion and softening. After priming and preparing surface, wipe with clean rag, lightly saturated with C-8762, to remove dust and possible contamination. Finally, just before top coating, wipe with STERLING tac rag for final dust removal. For application by spray, combine one part STERLING color base with one part STERLING U-10001C spray catalyst. After catalyzing, allow mixture to pre-react for 45-60 minutes and then thin to appropriate spray viscosity. U-1275 reducer may be used above 85-90°F, U-1014 reducer from 70-80°F, U-1385 reducer from 50-70°F. If the solvent flashes or evaporates too quickly, spray stipple will not flow and the surface will not demonstrate the wet look, characterized by STERLING gloss when correctly applied. The catalyzed gloss is usually thinned 25-30% with most colors to produce the best results and with some of the whites, black and other heavy pigments, even greater reduction may be indicated so that the film lays down as intended. Reduction always varies with colors and air temperatures but nearly always, the STERLING gloss requires 20-25% reduction at a minimum. If a viscosity cup is used, the No. 2 Zahn provides a good measure of proper viscosity when the cup evacuates in 17-18 seconds. Thinner should be added to the mixture as subsequent paint pots are filled from the original mixing bucket in order to restore proper viscosity. As time passes during an application project, the catalyzed mixture continues to thicken and with solvent evaporation more thickening occurs, so if reducer is not added as the job progresses, consistent flow will be unlikely. Best results are achieved by siphon cup or pressure pot, the latter generally being much easier when painting large surfaces such as planes, boats and trucks. Airless application is for the highly experienced and only for very large jobs such as commercial jet aircraft. STERLING is successfully applied by many of the new air-assisted airless, electrostatic and HVLP guns. Spray equipment should always be thoroughly cleaned before topcoat application. Always cycle a few ounces of spray reducer through the gun to make sure all fluid passages are uncontaminated and to verify that the spray fan is even and the gun is functioning properly. Siphon cups should have fluid tip orifices of about .060 - .070", adequate for all STERLING gloss coatings and primers. Pressure fluid tips should be very small, .040 - .050", to promote slower application, better atomization and a better quality finish. Airless equipment capable of 30:1 ratios or above, with fluid tips no larger than .009" are best for high quality results. Check with DETCO or your distributor for specific fluid tip, needle and air cap combinations for your gun. Set up the gun for minimal material flow, making it unnecessary to move the spray gun across the work too rapidly. Much better quality can be achieved by painting slowly for STERLING does not dry as fast as many of the automotive lacquers and enamels. When using a siphon cup, material flow should be set so that at a convenient speed across the work area, the surface is just wet enough to flash a good gloss within a few minutes. When using a pressure pot, use only enough fluid pressure to produce good gloss at a convenient speed over the work area, generally no more than 5-6 psi on the pot regulator gauge. STERLING has so much resin in it that it requires high air pressure in the line to atomize the material for good flow. Generally 55-60 psi is adequate at the gun. Bear in mind that substantial pressure reductions occur the longer the air hose, hence increased pressure at the compressor may be necessary to produce 55-60 psi at the gun. Always strain catalyzed, thinned mixture into paint pot with extra fine, paper cone filters. Always use STERLING tac rags to remove dust just before topcoat application. Lightly wipe surfaces, do not scrub and change rag surface constantly to keep clean. Do not use solvent with tac rags. They are only for final dust removal. Gloss must be applied in two passes over the surface for each application, and with some of the transparent colors even three might be indicated. Generally, however, STERLING’s polyester urethane system is so high in solids that the colors cover well with only two passes over the work surface. The first coat should have just enough material to produce wetness and good flow. It should not be "fogged" on or stipple results and good flow may not occur. A good mirror image should be evident on the first pass within a few minutes but the surface may not be thoroughly hidden, particularly with some of the more transparent colors. If the first coat is applied too heavily, substantial drying time will have to be allowed to prevent sags when wet coat is applied, especially in cold weather. If first coat is too light, there will be evident stipple or dry spray which will not flow out as the second coat is applied. It is therefore important, for good end results, for the first pass to be applied with as much care as the second, assuring good surface uniformity. The first coat may develop interim dry spots as it begins setting up. If there are too many dry areas it suggests more fluid flow or slower gun movement across the work surface in order to provide slightly greater surface wetness. Any dry spot or stippled area noted as the first coat is being applied should be loaded with slightly more material so that it will stretch into a glossy film immediately. This is generally done by pulling the gun further away from the work and "dusting" the surface with a few light passes, watching carefully for the gloss to stretch. One can then resume coating from the wet line with no fear of dry spray. After applying the tack coat, allow the surface to become dry to the touch which may take 30-60 minutes or more, depending upon ambient temperature and humidity, whether accelerator is used and the applicator’s choice of reducer. The wet coat must not be applied until the tack coat has stretched into a smooth film and has dried firmly to the touch, or an "orange peel" texture can occur, due to excess coating thickness from under thinning. It may also be that the first coat has not sufficiently dried. Air pressure should be checked and increased as another possibility. If the film is drying too rapidly, "orange peel" can result, hence a slower evaporating thinner might be indicated. As temperatures change during the day, during the course of a large job, it may be necessary to move to a slower evaporating reducer for the second pass. Remember STERLING is a high solids, very high quality linear polyurethane and it does not have to be applied in heavy coating thickness to achieve the desired results. Generally a dry film of 1.5 – 2.5 mils, derived from a wet film of 3-5 mils is more than sufficient to provide all of the resistive properties of which the material is capable. U-2900 ACCELERATOR Normally STERLING is dry to tape at 70°F in about 12 hours or overnight, although for quicker drying time when applying graphics and stripes, STERLING U-2900 accelerator may be used up to 1/8 ounce per catalyzed quart. DO NOT USE IN WARMER WEATHER AND BE CAUTIOUS THAT EXCESS COATING THICKNESS DOES NOT OCCUR ON FLAT SURFACES SUCH AS THE TOP OF A FUSELAGE OR UPPER WING SURFACE WHEN ACCELERATOR IS BEING USED. SMALL BUBBLES (SOLVENT POP) CAN RESULT UNDER SUCH CONDITIONS. NORMALLY ACCELERATOR SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR AIRCRAFT PAINTING WITHOUT CONSULTATION WITH DETCO’S TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT. This new-age product is the result of extensive research and development and represents state-of-the-art in low VOC, high solids, premium quality urethane coatings. Un-thinned, this system can be applied at 419 grams per liter VOC and at approximately 20% reduction, it may be used within a 490 gram per liter limit. The main differences between this product and standard STERLING are: somewhat slower cure time, reduced pot life (about 4 hours at 70 degrees F) and a notably heavier film build with each coat, producing better coverage. Otherwise this product has already proved itself as a long term performer, demonstrating gloss retention in tropical exposures even better than its predecessor, with the added benefit of easier repair. MIXING INSTRUCTIONS: For application by spray, mix two parts STERLING color base (94-U-color #) with one part 94-U5000 spray catalyst. After catalyzing, allow mixture to pre-react about 30 minutes and thin to appropriate viscosity. THINNING: Use U-1385 in temperatures below 65-70F, U-1014 from about 70-80F and, if needed for proper flow above 80F, use U-1275. Always thin just before application. As paint pot is subsequently filled add thinner, if needed, to maintain consistent viscosity. As time passes during an application project, the catalyzed mixture continues to thicken because of solvent evaporation and the chemical reaction. Good flow, therefore, may be unlikely if additional thinner is not added. APPLICATION: After priming and preparing surface, wipe with rag lightly saturated with C-8762 to remove dust and possible contamination. Finally, just before application, remove lingering dust with STERLING tac rag. Always strain catalyzed, thinned mixture into paint pot with fine paper cone filters. Gloss must be applied in two passes over the surface during one application. STERLING LOW VOC is so high in solids that colors cover well, with just two. The first coat should have just enough material to produce wetness, continuity and a good flow a few minutes behind the area sprayed. It should not be "fogged" on or stipple may result and a good flow will no occur, nor can it be covered by the second pass. A good mirror image should be evident on the first pass within a few minutes although the surface may not be thoroughly hidden, particularly with some of the more transparent colors. If the tack coat is applied too heavily, substantial drying time must be allowed to prevent sags when wet coat is applied, particularly in cold temperatures. If the tack coat is too light, there will be stipple or dry spray that will not flow as further material is applied. The first coat should be applied with as much care as the second. After applying the first coat, allow surface to become dry to the touch, which may take 30-60 minutes or more depending on the ambient temperature, humidity and the thinner used. Do not apply the wet coat until the tack coat has stretched into a smooth film and has dried firmly to the touch or an "orange peel" surface may result. The wet coat should flow within a few minutes into a high gloss. If the film dries too rapidly, consider using a slower thinner . We do not recommend the usage of polyester putties and body fillers such as Bondo™, Featherfill™, gel-coats or sprayable polyester fillers. Their adhesive properties are not nearly as good as epoxies, they are often loaded with solvents, resulting in shrinkage and because of a polyester resin’s basic nature, they are susceptible to water absorption, reducing their long-term effectiveness. Quality epoxy putties, by contrast, have no solvent, demonstrate much better structural strength and far better adhesion with almost any surface. They are tougher to sand, slower to cure, and sometimes more difficult to apply but their benefits are clear, over polyesters. Acrylic putties are often used in polyurethane application for fine glazing, by professional applicators. 3M and DuPont products are most popularly represented and when used correctly, they produce satisfactory results. For pinhole filling, minor scratches, sanding marks and nominal surface imperfections, a quick drying acrylic glaze works well. They should not be used, however, for heavy, trowelled filling for they lack structural strength and contain solvents causing shrinkage and mud cracking in heavy thickness. Retaining their solvent for some time after application, if topcoat gloss is applied too quickly, blistering of the coating film may also occur. It is best, therefore, when using acrylic putty, to allow overnight drying before sanding and for best results, spot prime before topcoat application. The gloss of all colors and clear may be reduced by adding U-3218 Flattening. This is a very heavy-bodied material and must be thoroughly mixed, preferably by use of a drill motor mixer, before adding to the color base. It must be briskly mixed into color base before catalyst is added. Do not add flattening to catalyzed color. For satin, semigloss finish, add one-half volume U-3218 to one volume color base and mix thoroughly with drill motor mixer. For flat finish, mix equal volumes U-3218 and color base and mix well with drill motor mixer. The ratio of color base to catalyst is always the same regardless of the addition of the flattening agent. Because of variance in coating thickness encountered with brushing application, the latter can result in a somewhat uneven flat or semigloss finish, with flattening added. For large areas, spray application is generally more effective and will produce a much more even luster. Consult Detco for information on black and clear formulations ready to spray in flat or satin, with U-1146 Catalyst. ANTI-CRATER SOLUTION FOR "FISH EYES" STERLING gloss coatings are adversely affected by contamination from dirty spray equipment and oil or water droplets in the air line. Surface contamination in the form of silicone compounds, oily/greasy residues and waxes can produce a similar result. The minute contaminants become mixed with the atomized spray or are coated with it on the surface and form small craters or "fish eyes," ruining the film’s appearance. U-3154 Anti-Crater solution may help. Of course, when seen, the best cure for contamination is to clean the equipment, check for dirty line filters, hoses and a defective compressor, if not surface contamination, however the job may be too far along to practically do so. Adding up to one ounce U-3154 per quart of mixture may promote enough flow to eliminate the craters in the second gloss coat. Equipment should be thoroughly checked to eliminate the contamination sources. Urethanes are much more susceptible to craters than acrylic enamels and lacquers and require much cleaner equipment in general. Some alternative sources seen in the field, for fish eyes, include use of household or automotive tack rags containing oily or waxy compounds; usage of air sanding equipment in the work area, releasing atomized oil; usage of contaminated or industrial-grade wipe-down solvents, incompatible flow agents and reducers, mistakenly using epoxy reducer with urethane and vice versa: usage of silicone sprays, WD-40, ArmorAll and similar compounds near work area, etc. There is a wide variety of tapes and masking papers on the market which will produce as wide a variety of results. The best taped lines are usually produced by 3M #218 "Fine Line" or #256 Flat Back tape, expensive but effective. Burnishing the tape after a line is set, by rubbing thumb or fingernail along masked edge will prevent the solvent "creep" commonly seen when using crepe masking tapes. Perfect lines may be made with Fine Line tape if one is careful to burnish the tape edge after the line is set and once again prior to gloss application. If the tape is pulled too tightly when the line is set, it will often skip when burnished and color "creep" will result. Just enough tension on the tape to produce a fair line will permit burnishing without skip. Remove the tape as soon as surface is tack-free and do so very carefully, pulling parallel to the line to prevent the coating from being peeled. If the tape is allowed to remain on surface too long, or it is pulled into the wet surface, the coating may be lifted. Adhesion of the topcoat may be nominal for several days until complete film drying has occurred. After tape line has been established, use a good quality, solvent proof masking paper, adhering same to the stripe maskant with good quality crepe tape. In cooler weather, Fine Line and crepe masking tapes do not stick as well as Flat Back hence particular care must be used to burnish the edges just prior to application, to prevent overspray on newly painted areas. Many aircraft and truck painters use only good quality crepe tape to prepare stripes as, with more flexibility, it tends to burnish better over rivet heads and other surface irregularities, resulting in less leakage along tape edge. The 3M vinyl tapes have been found effective, as well, by many aviation applicators. It is always a question, how soon tape lines may be set on a newly applied gloss coating. Since there are so many variables, arbitrarily affixing a time for laying tape lines is impossible. It is best, always, if in doubt about the cured state of the coating film, to thoroughly burnish a small piece of tape in an inconspicuous spot and leave it in place for a few hours, before laying out graphics. Fine Line is a low tack tape and is far safer to use on freshly-applied coating films than other tapes, but it can still produce an imprint if applied while the coating is too "green" or if All of the STERLING primers, catalysts, and the topcoat catalysts, thinners and additives contain volatile and flammable solvents, the vapors from which can abruptly ignite and/or give rise to explosion in the presence of an open flame, sparks or an electrical arc. Solvent vapors can cause neurological intoxication, indicated by dizziness, nausea, dullness, diminished sensitivity, slurred speech and slowed reactions. Over-ingestion of vapors by breathing or through the skin can cause cumulative tissue damage and should be avoided. The aliphatic isocyanates in some of the primers and the topcoat systems are respiratory irritants and can cause severe allergic reaction to the skin, breathing difficulty and permanent sensitivity. Keep all of the products off the skin, using gloves and/or protective cremes and avoid skin contact with solvents during brush or spray equipment clean-up. Non-solvented hand cleaners are much safer to use. A fresh air supply to a full face mask is the only totally safe method of applying urethanes and primers by spray, for the continual positive pressure from the air source keeps all airborne contaminants away from the eyes, nose and mouth. Use of a disposable paint suit keeps overspray off the skin for further safety. Lacking a fresh air supply, when applying STERLING, use the best possible, best fitting, activated charcoal filter respirator mask, changing filters at any time airborne solvents or isocyanates are smelled or tasted. One’s threshold to detect solvents is diminished by solvent contact with taste and smell receptors, hence care must be exercised when working with urethanes and epoxy primers over extended periods to precautionarily change respiratory cartridges even if airborne vapors are not smelled or tasted. Do not use solvents to clean overspray or spilled paint and primer from skin. If adversely affected by solvent or isocyanate fumes, move to fresh air source and consult a physician if breathing difficulty develops, particularly with a history of respiratory problems, asthma, hay fever, etc. In the event of skin contact, use soap and water or check with DETCO for special non-solvent hand cleaner. In the event of eye contact, flush thoroughly with clean water and see a physician. Contact your distributor or DETCO for the latest Material Safety Data Sheets on the STERLING products and for more information as to available protective equipment. Click INFO REQUEST for quick connection to needed service or literature. U-1201and 1201G.........250-300 sq. ft. per mixed gal. U-1000 and 94-U-1000...250-350 sq. ft. per mixed gal. Topcoat....................200-250 sq. ft. per mixed gal. (Figures are only approximate) U-1000 and 94-U topcoats @ 3.0 mils -------.0387 lbs. U-1000 and 94U-1000 Primer@ 2.0 mils -----.0146 lbs. U-1201 and U-1201G Primer @ 1.0 mil-------.0133 lbs. M-3225 Primer @ 0.3 mils-------------------- .0027 lbs.
Click INFO REQUEST to obtain color chart. The foregoing instructions are intended to provide the applicator with the basics necessary to apply STERLING coatings. By no means is this guide intended to be a complete treatise on the subject of coating application. We therefore suggest, for complete instructions, that you contact your dealer, distributor or DETCO before starting a large job. Only from thorough, careful evaluation of the surfaces to be coated, proper preparation and well applied primer and topcoat can the expected results be achieved. Do not hesitate to ask for technical assistance for you are creating a long-term investment in the use of the STERLING COATING SYSTEM. All recommendations, statements and technical data contained herein are based on tests we believe to be reliable and correct, but accuracy and completeness of said tests are not guaranteed and are not to be construed as a warranty, either express or implied. Users shall rely on their own information and tests to determine suitability of the product for the intended use and users assume all risk and liability resulting from the use of these products. Seller’s and manufacturer’s sole responsibility shall be to replace that portion of the product of this manufacturer which proves to be defective. Neither seller nor manufacturer shall be liable to the buyer or any third person for any injury, loss or damage directly or indirectly resulting from the use of the manufacturer shall not be binding upon the manufacturer or seller. Call DETCO, toll free, for further information at (800) 845-0023 and speak with one of our application specialists or e-mail us at detco@icnt.net. Or click Info Request. |
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[Home Page] Detco Marine is an independent manufacturer and master distributor, under independent ownership from Sterling Lacquer Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of Sterling coating products. © 2004 DETCO Marine No portion hereof may be reproduced in any form without written permission of DETCO Marine
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