Types of clearcoat

[marsfrogie]

What is the most durable clearcoat laquer that money can buy? I've used VHT clear, and am satisfied with the result, but I need something that is more durable. I've also used Glisten PC and don't care for it much due to the extremely long cure time. Please advise.

[mcaswell]

Did you bake the VHT clear to harden it? It's the most durable lacquer we've ever come across.

[marsfrogie]

No I didn't bake it. How do you go about baking it? This isn't the high temp clear, just the standard, does that make a difference?

[mcaswell]

Get the VHT Flameproof Clear lacquer.

Curing VHT FlameProof coatings will air dry in 15 to 30 minutes and, if handled with reasonable care, may be put to immediate use. Heat curing method for maximum resistance to solvents, salt spray, humidity, thermal shock and heat -- 15 minutes at 250?F, 30 minutes at 600?F, 1 hour at 800?F, 30 minutes at 1,000?F.

[8mpg]

do you think clear powdercoat has better results than the VHT Clear?

[mcaswell]

Probably about the same.

[jomida]

Get the VHT Flameproof Clear lacquer.

Curing VHT FlameProof coatings will air dry in 15 to 30 minutes and, if handled with reasonable care, may be put to immediate use. Heat curing method for maximum resistance to solvents, salt spray, humidity, thermal shock and heat -- 15 minutes at 250?F, 30 minutes at 600?F, 1 hour at 800?F, 30 minutes at 1,000?F.

These times and temperatures don't seem to be in agreement. I would expect consistently shorter times as the temperature goes up, and vice versa.

Also, would you recommend lacquering over FastGold for a more durable finish, or would it possibly affect the color?

[mcaswell]

They're accurate. Straight from the manufacturer. It cures the coating properly. These are steps, so 15 mins at 250°F then 30 mins at 600°F etc.

Sure, you could lacquer over gold. It will certainly change the appearance of the finish slightly, but it might be worth it for the protection you'll give the part. I guess it depends on what it is and how important color is vs. protection.

[danman]

clear coat

clear powder coating is best.