Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Two coat process cracking

Could someone please advise the cause of a two stage process cracking underneath the clear coat? The product is metal handrail. The clear coat feels smooth and unbroken however you can see cracks in the color coat beneath.

Thanks,

Kent Houston
- Ft. Collins, Colorado
2001

Dear Kent,

The cracking on the handrail is caused by the clear topcoat's solvent system attacking the bottom color coat. It sounds like the color coat is a synthetic air-dry, which would produce a very high gloss color. If incompatible solvent systems are being used, then you will get that "lifting" and cracking. The handrails will probably need to be stripped and repainted for repair.

Good luck.

Jake Koch
G. J. Nikolas &Co.,Inc.

Bellwood, Illinois

2001

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: