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MIL-E-11195 dry time and hardness problems

2004

We have recently been forced to switch from TT-E-516 (enamel, lusterless, quick-drying styrenated alkyd type) to MIL-E-11195 (enamel, lusterless, fast dry, voc compliant). Our production line is experiencing longer dry times and paint peeling after 24 hours. I have been investigating different thinners such as MEK / methyl ethyl ketone, A-A-3007, TT-T-306, and A-A-857 without any success. Are these normal difficulties when switching between these enamels? Is there any adjustments that might help?

Bradley Black
laboratory chief - McAlester, Oklahoma

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Both the MIL spec. and QPL were recently revised several times (problem fixes?). Obtain MIL-DTL-11195G and QPL-11195-26 (30 Dec 2003) from ASSIST: http://assist1.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/ and purchase new material if necessary.

MIL-DTL-11195G indicates that (after thinning with 8 parts A-A-3007) spraying at 8-10 inches should yield air drying times of 6 minutes (touch) and 12 minutes (hard) for a DFT of 0.0013-0.0017 inch. Only A-A-3007 thinner is mentioned.

Ken Vlach [deceased]
- Goleta, California
Finishing.com honored Ken for his countless carefully researched responses. He passed away May 14, 2015.
Rest in peace, Ken. Thank you for your hard work which the finishing world, and we at finishing.com, continue to benefit from.
2004

We are also having this same problem. Have you found any additional resources or have you solved this issue.

Robert Davis
- Texarkana, Texas
2005