APPLICATION ON HOT SURFACES

Application on very warm or even hot surfaces is an THE TEMPERATURE OF THE PAINT
almost daily experience in some parts of the world.
There is a direct relationship between the temperature of
Products and specifications suited for these areas are
the paint and the viscosity of the paint.
being used and applicators are experienced to deal with
Higher temperatures will result in lower viscosity - this will
the situation.
usually give better sprayability, but it may also result in
higher tendency to sagging.
In other parts of the world application on such surfaces is
As some paints also contain ingredients, which are
a rare occurrence which therefore tends to cause
sensitive to too high temperatures during storage, it is
complications.
usually recommended that paint is stored at
temperatures between 10°C/50°F and 30°C/86°F.
The following has especially been prepared for these
A cooled container for paint storage on the site can be a
parts of the world in order to give some guidelines with
practical solution.
regard to products specifications and solutions.
Reference is further made to TRB article III-25 "Safety
Normally maximum surface temperature for application is
risks - Paint application on hot surfaces".
not stated on the data sheets. Mainly because it is
generally believed, that provided the paint can be applied
in the recommended film thicknesses without sagging,
Issued January 2001/Group TSD Centre
has sufficient flow characteristics, acceptable appearance
etc. and the film is without defects and obtains proper
adhesion, then it will be OK.
Surface temperature should however in general not
exceed 60-65°C/140-149°F. Extra thinning will often be
necessary to avoid dry spray and to keep the paint film
fluid (open) long enough to enable it to flow together
forming a uniform and coherent film.
Especially thinners with lower evaporation rate should be
used (NB! The thinner must be compatible with the
coating).

There are exceptions from above general rule eg:

Physically drying paints (acrylic, vinyl and chlorinated
rubber) should not be applied to surfaces with
temperatures higher than approximately 40°C/104°F.
At higher temperatures introduction of bubbles and
blistering in the paint film may easily occur (instant
vacuole formation).

ZINC SILICATES
Normally it is recommended that the temperature is to be
kept below 30°C/86°F.

WHEN IT IS TOO HOT...

In order to avoid painting at too high temperatures
professional painters often avoid painting during the hot
hours (noon to early afternoon).
It may even be necessary to carry out the painting late
evening or very early morning.

TRB, Section V-7/Page 1 of 1

HEMPEL