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Waterborne Basics

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There are two different types of waterbase on the market currently; true latex systems and solvent hybrid systems. The difference between the two is easily identified as hybrids use a traditional can with a mixing lid and mix machine. Latex systems use a plastic container that is not agitated. Of critical importance are air movement in the booth, as well as the condition of the air supply used for spraying:

-Booth air movement: 110-150 fpm best, 70-80 fpm minimum.
-Low ambient humidity: (below 40%).
-Spray temperature control: 70-75 degrees is best.
-Adequate compressor, with proper size piping and air hose and fitting: 3/8" diameter -Fittings and hose.
-Low spray air humidity: under 10% MANDATORY.

-Disciplined booth and filter maintenance.



Proper piping size is critical, with 3/4" as the minimum. All air hoses should be 3/8" diameter as well as 3/8" diameter (high flow) fittings and hose. A refrigerated dryer as well as point of use desiccant systems should be considered mandatory to keep RH% of air under 10%. Although we cannot control ambient humidity due to weather or what part of the country we are in, when the ambient temperature and humidity are close to one another, waterbase is extremely tough to Flash-Off. Having the ability to increase spray temperature by 10 degrees will help considerably. In other words, there may be times in the summer where painters will need to fire the burners in their booth to increase spray temperature for spray and Flash-Off modes based on the brand of waterborne base coat. Example: 80 degree days with 80% RH take spray temperature to 90◦F.


Flash-Off applications will require the use of handheld air amplifiers (blowers). Some of these can consume up to 20 CFM of air each! With 2 of these used in a shop at one time this demand for air is more than the average 10HP compressor can deliver! Rule of thumb is: For every 1 HP = 4CFM, thus a 10hp compressor can deliver 40 CFM. The A-Frame Tornado H2O package includes a hand dryer as well as Colmet’s innovative mobil Flash-Off system, the EVO-1 (pictured at right). This unit features a portable tower with rolling stand, a manual timer for setting cycle time and does not require an extensive air purification system.



Maintenance and Safety


Once the commitment has been made to waterborne base coats all aspects of maintenance need to be addressed including cleanliness of booths, cars, and painters themselves. The need for creating turbulent air inside the booth can create increased dirt in the jobs without careful scrutiny. Booth filters must be changed regularly, and burners should be serviced on schedule. Air compressors as well as refrigerated and desiccant dryers must be maintained and serviced with care.


A note on safety: Just because you are now spraying a "green" product which is supposed to be better for the environment, it does not necessarily mean it is safer to you. Our bodies are made up of over 50% water, so they react differently to solvent as opposed to waterbase. Just as before, personal protection, such as gloves, spray suits and masks (supplied air) is still equally if not more important.

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