What is aircraft paint and is there any difference than others?

There are not a lot of articles about what aircraft paint is, so we thought it was important to show you the difference. Paint manufacturers use different credo for airplanes than for cars because of the environment they represent. Depending on the altitude, pollution and environment (rain/snow), the mixture of the paint is absolutely key for aviation coatings. Choosing the right aircraft paint manufacturer is absolutely critical to anyone wanting to paint an aircraft. Especially if you’re waiting your own aircraft in Central Oregon.

What you are looking for when purchasing aviation paint (to spray an aircraft) is FDXH chemical resistant formula that resists hydraulic fluid, oil and/or jet fuel. When you do your etching, primer, reducers and topcoat, remember to use the same brand. Mixing brands is risky and can ruin the entire project. You cannot be cheap or picky about this process. You also need to follow the manufacturers guidelines because certain formulas work better for certain finishes and/or surfaces. Request the manufacturers materials/spec sheets and read thoroughly.

Most aircraft are painted with single stage polyurethane paint. This is what you would look for mainly. It’s like a “liquid plastic”. There are three types of polyurethane paint:

- water-based

- oil based

- oil modified water based

We want to use the oil based polyurethane paint FDXH chemical resistant formula. Water based isn’t strong enough for tough weather like ice crystals or debris from strong winds. Before you use primer or paint, you must mix it thoroughly. If there is/are any pigment that has settled to the bottom, the suspension and distributed will not be evenly spread throughout the paintjob.

Aircraft paint has a shelf life so make sure you buy it brand new. If an opened container has skin or  film formed over the primer or paint, the film must be completely removed before you do any mixing. The paint should not be used if it has expired, becomes too thick or jelled. For spot repairs, use catalyzed basecoat or FBC. Just look for the label. Do not use anything that says “medium solid coating”. You want to use basecoat or clear coat for its blend-able performance if you are doing color matching.

Ok, so to sum up. If you are looking for aircraft paint for a job in Redmond, OR (painting your own airplane) you will need to understand these basic things above. Look for this type of paint: FDXH chemical resistant oil based polyurethane paint and do not mix different paint companies. Just stick with one and you’ll be fine. If you want to learn how to paint an airplane, you can check it out here on my blog.

http://www.vertinc.net/aircraft-paint-difference-others/

https://youtu.be/ix55lJVu9uU