Best practice for the use of Standoblue Basecoat under hot and dry conditions

Refinishers face challenges during summer months from high temperatures and variations in humidity. The experts at Standox, the refinish paint brand from Wuppertal, Germany, and one of the premium refinish brands of Axalta, have put together some practical advice for the use of Standoblue Basecoat to help refinishers prepare properly and to get right first time results during hot and dry weather.

Adjust the basecoat to suit the conditions

Harald Klöckner, Axalta International Training Leader and Refinish Product Specialist, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), says, “High humidity can make Standoblue Basecoat easier to apply. But in particularly hot conditions with low humidity, the basecoat dries faster and potentially causes some difficulties for the refinisher.”

The basecoat needs to be adjusted accordingly so Standox recommends the use of Standoblue Viscosity Adjuster Slow 8520. If the climatic conditions are very hot and dry, refinishes should also add five- to- ten per cent Standox Demineralized Water 8000 to the mix, which counteracts faster flash off and keeps the film open longer, allowing for better overspray absorption and mottling control.

Refinishers should refer to the Standoblue Climate Guide, Technical Data Sheet and the Product Mix available in Standowin IQ for guidance on the appropriate product adjustment to suit local climate conditions.

Technique is key

“It’s not simply a question of adjusting the products appropriately to achieve right first time results under tricky hot and dry conditions. The correct spraying technique is also key to ensuring a perfect paint job,” adds Klöckner.

Depending on the type and size of paint job, refinishers are advised to minimise the number of overlap zones to reduce the possibility of dry spray forming on the unpainted part of the job. When spraying vertical car parts, Standox recommends starting from the bottom and working to the top of the panel. Refinishers should avoid dry spots during the application particularly in overlaps and finish the effect coat inside the first coat.

Use the right spray gun set up

When applying Standoblue Basecoat under more moderate climate conditions, the use of a 1.2 nozzle set up is standard for most paint jobs. For repairs in challenging hot and dry conditions and for larger jobs, refinishers should consider a larger nozzle, such as 1.3.

Klöckner says, “It is important refinishers check both the spray gun inlet pressure and the nozzle size before starting a job, to ensure even and mottle free application and the best quality repair possible.”

Paint in the morning

The work schedule for vehicles in the spray booth should be planned carefully when hot temperatures are forecast because drying cycles can make it almost impossible to lower the booth temperature, particularly in combi spray booths. One option is to do bigger or more demanding refinish jobs in the morning when it is a little cooler.

Refinishers can find more advice and information about refinishing on Standopedia, the online technical information guide for professional refinishers, at www.standox.com/standopedia. 

About Standox

Standox, a global refinish coating brand from Axalta, is the best choice for professional refinishers. Customers can rely on Standox to achieve the best quality results, every time, accurately and quickly. As a brand manufactured in Wuppertal, Germany, Standox ensures our customers are ready for future digitalisation by improving workflow and work processes with digital tools. Standox further supports customers not only with relevant market insights but also work provision thanks to extensive approvals from car manufacturers as well as fleet, lease and insurance companies, which reflect the brand’s position as a leading partner to the automotive industry. Standox – the art of refinishing.