#1 - Valspar Industrial Mix Activator Range
Driving Performance
The expanded VIM activator range is a game changer.
Complementing the existing AU500 Medium Activator is the new AU574 HS Activator Slow and AU576 HS Activator Fast.
These new additions provide you with an increase in optimised system flexibility.
This activator range in combination with the VIM RS Reducer range allows you to adjust the flash off and curing times to suit your specific job requirements based on job size, complexity and ambient conditions.
For more details refer to the Activator and Reducer Selection
View more details on the VIM Website
Factors of Selection
For the best results in lay down, through cure and ultimate performance of the coating the selection of the correct Activator (and Reducer) is always of high importance.
Two of the biggest considerations when selecting the appropriate activator and reducer are
- Ambient air temperature (the vehicle or unit will be sprayed in)
- The size of the job
Failure to make the right selection can result in
- Excess peel
- Dry spray
- Solvent entrapment
- Solvent popping
- Gloss loss, etc
Application
To achieve consistent and optimum results, always follow the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and apply the recommended layer thickness.
Object & Paint Temperature
The ambient temperature varies across each geographical region and change in season also causes significant fluctuations in ambient temperature. Utilising the correct reducer and activator combination provides you with the flexibility in application speed and dry time to match the ambient conditions and job size.
The ideal painting conditions are 20-25°C. Outside of this range the experienced painter utilises a different combination of reducer and activator to maintain quality of finish and application speed as detailed below.
It is recommended to align the temperature of the paint with the spray booth. If the paint is at a lower temperature than the object, it could cause condensation on the paint job impacting on the quality of the finish.
If paint is stored in cold areas, it is recommended to warm it to room temperature by using a heated water bath or placing it in a temperature-controlled environment for several hours before use.
Object Size
For smaller parts and in colder climates use AU576 Activator Fast in combination with RS603 Universal Reducer Fast. For even faster drying times, AA600 Accelerator can be added following the advice provided in the TDS.
For larger objects and in hotter climates, use AU574 Activator Slow in combination with RS607 Universal Reducer Slow or RS609 Universal Reducer Ultra Slow.
Following this recommendation will ensure for the overspray to melt in and provide excellent levelling and gloss.
View the ANZ Selection Guide View the UK Selection Guide
Temperature Reference Chart
VIM Activator Guide for all 2K Polyurethane Primers and Topcoats (excluding TB520)
| AU576 Activator Fast | ||||||
| AU500 Activator Medium | ||||||
| AU574 Activator Slow | ||||||
| < 10°C | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C | 35°C+ |
|---|
VIM Activator Guide for TB520
| AU576 Activator Fast | ||||||
| AU500 Activator Medium | ||||||
| AU574 Activator Slow | ||||||
| < 10°C | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C | 35°C+ |
|---|
Activator recommendations are given as a guide and may vary depending on substrate temperature, weather conditions, and job size.
For more information and recommendations contact your Local VIM Representative
This tip was originally written for DBNZ Coatings and has been re-posted with permission.
Download Tech Tip #1Size: 439KB | File Format: .pdf
