Common Problems

Spray application of coatings can include a variety of problems:

• Orange Peel, Excessive Overspray
  • Cause - Viscosity
  • Fix - Adjust Thinner Add, Check Hose Diameters and Length, Reduce Spray Tip Size
• Runs
  • Cause -  Overthinning, Excessive Film Build
  • Fix - Apply Thinner Coats, Extend Flash Between Coats
• Craters, Fish Eyes, Pinholes
  • Cause -  Surface Contamination, Dirt, Water or Oil
  • Fix -Clean With Solvent or Detergent, Sweep Blast, Check Air Supply, Change Filters
    • Use Flow Additive, Fish Eye Eliminator
• Low Gloss, Haziness, Poor DOI
  • Cause -  Improper Thinning, Hot Weather, High Humidity
  • Fix - Cool Substrate, Reduce Thinner Amount, Add Retarder, Increase Flash Between Coats
• Popping
  • Cause -  Over Activation, Improper Thinner
  • Fix - Follow Manufacturers Instructions, Reduce Fluid Flow, Apply Thinner Coats
• Rust
  • Cause -  Poor Surface Preparation, Finger Prints, Pitting
  • Fix - Clean With Solvent or Detergent, Sweep Blast, Repair Areas per SSPC Specs
• Poor Edge Coverage or Wrap - Electrostatic
  • Cause -  Check Conductivity of Coating and Substrate
  • Fix - Reduce Air Pressure, Adjust Thinner