Types and characteristics of two-component paints for metal, the best brands
The two-component metallic paint consists of two components which are mixed immediately before use. After connecting the two parts, the surface should be painted within 1-6 hours. After application, the paint hardens quickly, but hardens in 24 hours. As it dries, forms a moisture and weather resistant coating.
General information on two-component formulations
Two-component paints and varnishes are used to paint a metal surface. These paints consist of two parts, which are mixed immediately before painting. One container (smaller volume) contains a hardener, the other contains a resin composition. The paint layer hardens after application as a result of a chemical reaction in the open air (air humidity should not exceed 60 percent).
Both semi-finished products of two-component paint materials are viscous liquids and are not used separately. Usually, for 2/3 of the main composition, no more than 1/3 of the hardener is taken. A mixture that is too viscous is further diluted with a solvent recommended in the instructions (thinner, toluene, solvent, xylene).
Main characteristics of two-component paints:
- elastic;
- fast drying;
- contains anti-corrosion components;
- sustainable;
- the coating hardens in the open air of any moisture;
- the painted surface can be used at temperatures from -60 to +60 degrees and more;
- the coating tolerates sudden temperature changes, adverse weather conditions;
- after hardening, the paint layer becomes resistant to mechanical damage;
- after application, a strong, hard film is formed, resistant to water, steam, oil, gasoline, acid, ultraviolet rays;
- Paints and varnishes are available in different colors or tinted in the desired shade.
The main thing when using two-component formulations is to observe the proportions when mixing. If you add a smaller amount of hardener, the drying period will last, you will get a more elastic, but less durable and harder film.
Advantages and disadvantages
Varieties and fields of application
Manufacturers produce different types of two-component formulations.The most durable are epoxy, the most popular are acrylic.
Polyurethane
Two-component paint materials, which are used for painting cars, objects and metal products (garage doors, entrance doors). A semi-finished product contains polyurethane resins, the second is a hardener. It is applied in 1-2 layers. The paint drying interval is usually 6-12 hours.
epoxy based
Two-component paint materials consist of a semi-finished product based on epoxy resin and a semi-finished product with a hardener. It is used for painting metals (copper, steel, aluminum, galvanized surfaces), automotive parts, truck bodies, metal containers. Can be used to paint industrial equipment.
Acrylic
Two-component acrylic paints and varnishes consist of two parts: an acrylic polymer semi-finished product based on resins and a pigment and a semi-finished product with a hardener. Used to paint cars, metal objects, gates and doors.
Thixotropic
Two-component tixpotropic paints and varnishes are produced in two types: based on epoxy or polyurethane resins. A hardener must be included in the kit for any type of semi-finished product. Epoxies provide a stronger and more durable coating. They are used for painting metal objects and concrete surfaces.
Urethane-alkyd
Two-component paints consist of a semi-finished product based on alkyd resins and urethane ethers and a hardener. They are used to paint metal and wood.
Main Manufacturers
Two-component paints and varnishes are produced by various companies. The widest range of paints from the manufacturer "Tikkurila".The Finnish company offers two-component epoxies, semi-finished semi-gloss acrylic polyurethane products with hardeners, as well as two-component paints based on alkydamine resin.
Manufacturers of two-component paints and varnishes:
- Elakor (2-component polyurethane and others);
- AkzoNobel (2-component polyurethane, thixotropic);
- Sea-Line (2-component polyurethane);
- Vika (2-component acrylic car enamels);
- KEMA (2 component epoxy based).
How to choose the right composition
Two-component paints and varnishes are selected taking into account the following factors:
- surface to be painted (metal, concrete or wood);
- operating conditions (high humidity, exposure to adverse weather conditions);
- financial capabilities (acrylic is relatively cheaper than epoxy);
- depending on the desired color of the coating (some paint materials are tinted in the desired shade).
Additional tips and tricks
When using two-component enamels, it is recommended to carefully prepare the surface to be painted. The base must be cleaned of dust, dirt, wipe oil stains with a solvent, remove rust, old crumbling coating.
It is recommended to prime and dry well before painting. It is forbidden to paint a wet base with 2-component paint materials.
A mixture of two components is prepared before painting. Combine the two parts and mix well. It is necessary to work the mixture quickly, since the pot life of the mixed components is only 1-6 hours (depending on the amount, quality of the hardener and resins included in the composition). As a result of a chemical reaction, the film layer quickly hardens.However, it is recommended to test its resistance no earlier than 7 days after staining.