Types of primers for plastic and the best manufacturers, rules of application
Before painting plastic surfaces, they must be primed. This will help level the base and set the stain better. There are many plastic primers on sale today. They differ in their composition and effectiveness. In addition, these materials are not allowed to be applied on all coatings. Therefore, it is so important to carefully study the instructions before using the substance.
Content
- 1 Primer for plastic: composition and characteristics of the material
- 2 Principle of operation
- 3 Advantages and disadvantages of pre-primed plastic
- 4 Variety of primers
- 5 Selection recommendations
- 6 Review of popular manufacturers
- 7 Rules for applying a primer on plastic
- 8 Soil mix storage
- 9 How to Replace a Plastic Primer
- 10 Recommendations from the masters
Primer for plastic: composition and characteristics of the material
The composition of primer mixtures can vary significantly - it all depends on their varieties. When choosing a specific product, the compatibility of primer and paint should be considered. They must differ in composition and scope.
It is also worth taking into account the main characteristics of the plastic and the risk of its structure changing during deformation.For example, when a plastic window sill breaks after staining, creases and cracks often form on it. It is important to take into account that the primer and the paint should be equally sensitive to possible deformations.
Principle of operation
The use of special primers for plastics allows to increase adhesion with different types of plastics. It is not recommended to treat the surface with other substances before using primers. These substances form a special film on the material that protects it from the influence of external factors. It successfully handles chemical and mechanical threats.
Special primers should be used for exterior work. It is recommended to apply them to objects that are always outdoors and exposed to atmospheric influences. The use of substances increases the resistance of the coating to the effects of low temperatures. This prevents the formation of cracks or other defects.
Advantages and disadvantages of pre-primed plastic
The main advantages of using primers for processing plastic products are:
- increase the adhesion of plastic in relation to paint;
- level the surface of the elements;
- hide small scratches and other flaws;
- protection of plastic models from the negative influence of dyes;
- short drying period;
- a significant increase in the service life of the coating;
- the possibility of grinding;
- compatibility with different types of paints and varnishes;
- significant reduction in the consumption of paints and varnishes;
- the possibility of using it as an independent tool.
This coating is practically devoid of drawbacks.
However, some formulations are quite expensive. Another disadvantage is the need for careful choice of substance. Otherwise, it will not bring the desired effect.
Variety of primers
There are many effective products on sale today. They differ in composition and form of release. Acrylic, epoxy and adhesive primers are very popular. Aerosol-like substances are released in boxes. There are also formulations in bottles and buckets. At the same time, it is much more convenient to apply aerosols.
Acrylic
Polyacrylic primers are non-toxic, odorless liquids. They have excellent adhesion characteristics. The compositions are distinguished by their simplicity and high speed of application. With the help of an acrylic primer, it is possible to achieve a durable and high-strength coating on plastic surfaces.
adhesive primer
To increase the degree of adhesion with paints and varnishes, it is recommended to use a single-component primer that dries quickly. Many such products are sold in hardware stores, which differ in their technical characteristics. Regardless of which company manufactures a particular product, they all have the following characteristics:
- They belong to the category of professional products, intended for painting plastic and propylene products with base and acrylic enamels.
- It is important to prepare the surface well before applying the adhesive primer. To do this, it must be cleaned of dirt and treated with degreasing agents. Then the coating is matte with an abrasive cloth and degreased again. Only then is it allowed to start applying the primer.
- It is necessary to apply the adhesive composition in 1-2 layers. It is recommended to do this at intervals of 5-10 minutes.
Tread
This term refers to complex mixtures.They contain 90% lead, aluminum, zinc, magnesium in the form of dusty powders. The remaining 10% consists of epoxy resin, which acts as a binder.
When applying a primer to plastic, it provides reliable protection of the structure from the negative influence of external factors and prevents scratches. It is recommended to apply the composition to the plastic elements of cars before painting.
If the integrity of the primer layer is violated, zinc oxides form a reliable barrier. It's a thin film. Thanks to its presence, it is possible to avoid oxidation of the metal base of plastic parts.
alkyd
The main ingredients of these primers are alkyd resins and pigments. Also, the composition contains various fillers. Such blends are versatile. Therefore, they can be applied not only to plastic, but also to metal surfaces.
Alkyd primers have a specific smell. After their application, a durable high-strength coating appears on the surfaces. When using such formulations, it is especially important to observe safety rules.
Selection recommendations
Before buying an enamel primer, you need to decide on the composition of the material you plan to paint. It can be PVC or other types of plastic. Alkyd and acrylic substances of some brands have a low degree of adhesion to certain types of plastic coatings. In this case, it will not be possible to obtain a high-quality result.
Typically these problems are common with polyurethane, polyethylene and polystyrene. It is important to read the instructions on the package before buying a primer.There is always information regarding incompatibility with certain types of materials.
Review of popular manufacturers
In order to use a primer to give the desired results, it is important to pay attention to the choice of its composition. Some of the elements will require very expensive specialized formulations. However, in most cases, universal substances are enough. The most popular types of primers are:
- KUDO is considered one of the best rosters. This primer is available in aerosol form. The product of this manufacturer is characterized by all the advantages of a high-quality plastic primer. The composition allows you to achieve a reliable result. However, for this it is important to purchase an original product.
- Uni-Bet Liquid Plastic - This coating is versatile. It can be applied to plastic objects or unusual materials.
- Reoflex is an excellent type of primer that can be used for so-called ABS plastics. They are used to make modern car bumpers. The product of this brand makes it possible to obtain an even and durable coating for applying the next layer of decorative enamel.
- Newton is a relatively new brand offering an adhesive primer for plastics. In the description of the composition, many advantages are indicated. However, it is considered relatively new, so there is little practical information available.
- Motip is a well-known brand that offers very high quality gear. In addition, it has a rather high cost. The manufacturer's assortment includes transparent formulations that can be used for special cases.
Rules for applying a primer on plastic
Before applying the primer mixture to the plastic structure, it is important to pay attention to the preparation of the base, clean and degrease the surface.If the coating has a glossy structure, it is recommended to sand it with sandpaper to make it more matte.
Calculation of material consumption
The amount of primer mixture needed to perform the job directly depends on its type. Usually the consumption of the composition is indicated on the package with the material. By simple calculations, it will be possible to determine the approximate need for the tool.
Tools required
Applying the primer may require a brush or a natural fiber spray. It is recommended to prepare degreasing compounds to prepare the base. If it is necessary to process glossy coatings, it is worth using sandpaper.
Surface preparation and working solution preparation
Before applying the primer to the plastic surface, it is necessary to remove the old layer of stain and varnish. It is also recommended to clean the material from dirt and oil stains. Glossy textures should be sanded first.
When the coating is dry, it is recommended to cover it with a degreasing agent. To avoid applying the primer to unwanted surfaces, cover them with paper or aluminum foil.
Primer application
In order to properly prepare plastic surfaces, it is recommended to follow certain rules:
- Apply the first coat of coating to the surface.
- Dry the coating for 1 hour.
- Apply the next layer to the surface.
- Align and matte the painted surface 2 times.
- Dry the product.
- Wipe the surface with a cloth soaked in solvent.
After completing all the primer work, you can proceed to painting the product. At the same time, it is important to ensure optimal humidity parameters at the level of 80%.Temperature indicators should be within + 5-26 degrees.
Coat drying time
The specific drying time for 1 coat of primer depends on its composition. On average, it takes 15 minutes to 1 hour.
Soil mix storage
To prevent the primer from losing its performance characteristics, it should be stored in a dry, dark room. In this case, the temperature should not exceed +30 degrees. It is important to keep the substance away from fire and heat sources.
How to Replace a Plastic Primer
It is allowed to replace a primer for painting plastic elements of a car or other surfaces with homemade compounds.They are made on the basis of glue, cement and other substances. In this case, performance can be significantly degraded.
Recommendations from the masters
When working with a primer, experienced craftsmen advise to observe safety rules. All work must be carried out in a well-ventilated area. It is recommended to use rubber gloves to protect your hands. The eyes can be protected with goggles and the respiratory system with a respirator.
Plastic primer differs in its composition and form of release. This allows you to select a quality composition depending on the type of surface. To achieve a durable and reliable result, it is important to strictly adhere to the instructions for applying the composition.