Military Specifications

Question:

I am a technical consultant who has assisted a small business in being awarded a government contract for Zn phosphatizing (TT-C-490D) and priming cylindrical forgings. The primer callout is MIL-PRF-23377G, Type I, Class C, (epoxy/catalyst, 4:1 mix, two part kit) to a minimum primer thickness of 0.0005 inch and combined Zn phosphate/Primer thickness of 0.0050 inch. Where can I find “technical application information” for applying this primer to steel? Can you point me in the appropriate direction? D. M.

Answer:

As a matter of policy Painting Clinic does not name specific suppliers. Many of the governmental and military agencies issuing Mil Specs have a QPL (Qualified Products List). Approved suppliers for the specified products are on those lists. Your client should be able to get a QPL for the asking from his customer. He may also be able to get the names of suppliers for the required paint.

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However, you probably want to do this yourself because in the consulting business, perception is very important. You want your client to perceive you know what you are doing. I know this because I have my own consulting business

You need to ask the paint supplier for a product data sheet. Mil Spec paints are manufactured by many paint suppliers. There are also suppliers who specialize in these products. To locate one, I suggest you look in the Products Finishing 2003 Directory and Techology Guide. Suppliers of Mil Spec coatings are listed under Coatings, military and government specifications on page 333.