A brand new generation of structural coatings that combines exceptional toughness and flexibility with big improvements in handling, application and environmental properties has been launched by ANAC (Akzo Nobel Aerospace Coatings) and approved to Airbus (AIMS 04-04-001, -002, -003, -004, & -038) and EADS Eurofighter (SP-J-513-A-0016, Type III, Class A, -0013, Typ III, Class A, & -0083, Type III, Class A) specifications.

The new Aerowave® series of products is designed for use primarily on internal structures, some of which may be sealed-in and not exposed for more than 30 years. To maintain the necessary level of protection, the coatings have to achieve the highest chemical and corrosion resistance while remaining flexible as the aircraft flexes in flight. The product range includes a chromated primer for metallic substrates, a chrome free primer for non-metallic substrates (composites), and a topcoat, pore filler and stopper.

Building on the pioneering performance of earlier generations of waterborne coatings, the new Aerowave® waterborne range combines the highest levels of durability with simplified mixing and user friendly handling properties. The advancements extend from reductions in waste through a longer pot life combined with faster curing to improve process times while providing improved adhesion to new OEM pre-treatments such as TSA (Tartaric Sulphuric Acid Anodizing).

Environment

Environmental concerns are increasingly important today. The Aerowave® waterborne technology is safer for the environment and the lower paint consumption required with the new Aerowave® system helps OEMS and sub-contractors comply with solvent emission regulations. Aerowave® 2001 contains 75% less chromates compared to some conventional and high solids products, and there's less waste during mixing, storage and use. For airlines there are the added benefits of up to 20% less coating weight, which can equate to savings on fuel consumption.

Mixing

One of the major advantages of the Aerowave® Series of structural coatings is the simplified mixing process. To begin with, it is a two-component product, which differs from the traditional three or four component versions. Additionally, there's no need to thin with water and the new formulas are designed for both manual and automated (plural) mixing. Previously, mixing the older generations of structural coatings could be both complicated and time consuming, as well as adding extra costs. Typical mixing at high and medium shears (shear is the amount of energy needed to successfully mix the components) requires constant mechanical agitation and an investment in special mixing equipment. The products could be difficult to mix in two-component (plural) spray equipment which in turn could result in poor film formation and film faults. Higher shear mixing can also result in gelling and ultimately, an increase in waste. With the next generation Aerowave® Series, mixing is simple.

Application

Next generation Aerowave® also has advantages in application. It is compatible with all conventional and next generation HVLP/HVRP spray guns as well as water-based electrostatic spray equipment. The required dry film thickness is only 15-25µm, which can be achieved in only one uniform wet layer. Because of the low solid waterborne technology there is optimal layer thickness control, even on complex shaped structural components. It also applies well in high temperatures and/or humidity and has exceptional sag resistance. Once applied, curing is fast and the result is equally good whether it is air dried or cured with forced heat.

The film formation (coalescence) is also improved providing excellent adhesion to wide range of modern OEM pretreatments and substrates. It has excellent substrate wetting properties, increased opacity, good layer thickness control, and is more flexible than before. Less sensitive to substrate contamination, it is compatible with new substrates and pre-treatments including chromate-free chemical conversion coatings and the chromate-free anodizing process, while the film properties remain consistent during its pot life. The independently stabilized base and hardener components mean less reaction during pot life, which is up to six hours in ambient conditions.

By using the next generation Aerowave Series, customers gain peace of mind with a product range that has proven results while also offering savings in time, money, waste, and hassle.