MIL-HDBK-1110
Section 7:
APPLICATION
7.1
Introduction. This section provides general
information on paint application and on activities associated
with application such as paint storage and mixing. Application
procedures discussed include brushing, rolling, and spraying
(conventional air, airless, air-assisted airless, high-volume
low-pressure, electrostatic, plural component, thermal, and
powder).
7.2
Paint Storage Prior to Application. The installation
industrial hygienist should be consulted about local regulations
for paint storage, since storage of paint may be subject to
hazardous product regulations. To prevent premature failure of
paint material and to minimize fire hazard, paints must be stored
in warm, dry, well ventilated areas. They should not be stored
outdoors, exposed to the weather. The storage room or building
should be isolated from other work areas. The best temperature
range for storage is 50 to 85 degrees F. High temperatures may
cause loss of organic solvent or premature spoilage of water-
based paints. Low temperature storage causes solvent-borne
coatings to increase in viscosity, and freezing can damage latex
paints and may cause containers to bulge or burst. (When paint
is cold, a 24-hour conditioning at higher temperatures is
recommended prior to use.) Poor ventilation of the storage area
may cause excessive accumulation of toxic and/or combustible
vapors. Excessive dampness in the storage area can cause labels
to deteriorate and cans to corrode. Can labels should be kept
intact before use and free of paint after opening so that the
contents can readily be identified.
The paint should never be allowed to exceed its shelf
life (normally 1 year from manufacture) before use. The stock
should be arranged, so that the first paint received is the first
paint used. Paint that has been stored for a long period of time
should be checked for quality and dry time before use. Quality
inspection procedures are described in par. 9.5.5.
7.3
Preparing Paint for Application
7.3.1
Mixing. During storage, heavy pigments tend to settle
to the bottom of a paint can. Prior to application, the paint
must be thoroughly mixed to obtain a uniform composition.
Pigment lumps or caked pigment must be broken up and completely
redispersed in the vehicle. Incomplete mixing results in a
change of the formulation that may cause incomplete curing and
inferior film properties. However, caution must be used not to
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