Cortec VpCI® 386 Water Based Acrylic Topcoat

Cortec VpCI-386 is a truly unique water-based acrylic coating that works wonders as both a primer and a topcoat, specifically designed to offer outstanding protection even in the most demanding outdoor, unsheltered environments. What truly sets it apart is its sophisticated blend of non-toxic organic inhibitors, which creates a composite polymer barrier on metal surfaces, effectively slowing down metal ionisation and preventing corrosion. This isn't just any paint; it's a high-performance solution.

It's all about its innovative chemistry! VpCI-386 contains a special mixture of organic corrosion inhibitors, which are far more effective than traditional inorganic pigments and metal oxides often found in other coatings. These inhibitors form a protective film that actively adsorbs onto metal surfaces, creating a barrier that fends off corrosive electrolytes and aggressive elements, keeping rust at bay.

Absolutely! This coating is incredibly versatile. It forms a tough, non-flammable protective barrier that's perfectly suited for extended protection in both indoor and outdoor settings, even those exposed to harsh weather.

You'll be pleased to know that VpCI-386 boasts excellent UV resistance when dried. This means it delivers optimal outdoor performance, staying intact without cracking or chipping even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. It's built to last.

Yes, it is! Cortec is known for its commitment to environmentally conscious solutions. VpCI-386 is a water-based product, which generally means lower VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) compared to many solvent-based alternatives, contributing to a safer and more environmentally responsible application.

Relevant products you may want to consider:
Cortec BioCorr 19Ltr Biodegradable Rust Preventative
Cortec Ecoline ELP 19Ltr Pail Drums
Cortec Ecoline All-Purpose Lubricant
Eco-Corr Biodegradable VpCI Film
Cortec EcoShrink Compostable Film

It’s designed for multi-metal protection! VpCI-386 can effectively protect a wide range of metals, including carbon steel, cast iron, aluminum, stainless steel, and copper. For galvanized steel, it’s recommended to use a coat of VpCI-373 green as a primer first.

While it's available in a clear coating that allows for visual inspection of the metal substrate underneath, you can also get it in standard and custom colors. This offers flexibility for both aesthetic and functional needs.

Surface preparation is key for optimal performance! You'll want to make sure the substrate is completely free of any grease, oil, dirt, fingerprints, drawing compounds, rust inhibitors, or any other surface contamination that could hinder adhesion. For structural steel, a minimum of a NACE #3/SSPC-SP6 commercial blast clean is recommended.

You have options! VpCI-386 is quite versatile in its application methods. You can apply it by spray, roll, brush, or even by dipping, depending on your project and preference. Just be sure to agitate it well to a uniform consistency before you start.

Yes, it's a good practice to consider the dew point. For successful application, ensure that the dew point is more than $5^\circ$F ($2^\circ$C) less than the air temperature. This helps prevent condensation on the surface during application.

Relevant products you may want to consider:
Cortec VpCI-337 19Ltr Corrosion Inhibitor Coating
Cortec VpCI-387 Acrylic Water-Based Hi-Build Topcoat
Cortec VpCI-382 Water Based Urethane Topcoat
Cortec VpCI-377 19Ltr Rust Preventative

For conventional spray, manufacturer models like DeVilbiss MBC or JGA with a 704E tip, or Binks #18 or #62 with a 66PE tip, are suitable. For airless spraying, Graco 205-591 Bulldog, Binks Model 500 Mercury 5C, or DeVilbiss JGN-501 QFA-519 are recommended. A 0.013"-0.017" (0.3-0.4 cm) tip at 1200-1700 psi (83-117 bar) is usually best for airless application.

A dry film thickness (DFT) of 1.5-3.0 mils (37.5-75 µm) per coat is generally recommended for optimal performance.

It's a fast-drying coating! You can expect it to be dry to the touch within 30-90 minutes at $75^\circ$F ($24^\circ$C), assuming a 2 mil (50 µm) dry film thickness.

While it dries to the touch quickly, it typically takes about 7 days at $77^\circ$F ($25^\circ$C) and 55% relative humidity for the coating to be fully cured and achieve its maximum protective properties.

You can, but it's crucial to check for compatibility first. Before applying any solvent-based topcoat over VpCI-386, it's always best to test a small, inconspicuous area to ensure there are no adverse reactions or adhesion issues.

Relevant products you may want to consider:
Cortec VpCI-384 Solvent Based Topcoat
Cortec VpCI-384 RAL 9006 Aluminum
Cortec CorShield VpCI-369 19Ltr Pail
Cortec CorShield VpCI-368 19Ltr Outdoor Corrosion Protection Coating
Cortec CorShield VpCI-368 Outdoor Corrosion Protection Spray

Yes, in many cases, VpCI-386 can be applied over existing painted surfaces. However, for the best results, ensure the existing paint is well-adhered and the surface is properly cleaned and prepared as per the general guidelines.

Clean-up is straightforward when the coating is still wet; you can use water to clean your tools and equipment. If the coating has dried, you might need stronger solvents like Butyl Cellusolve or MEK for effective removal.

It performs exceptionally well! VpCI-386 has passed extensive salt spray testing (ASTM B-117), showing excellent corrosion protection for over 725 hours on carbon steel and over 1000 hours on aluminum, making it a robust choice for coastal and other challenging environments where salt exposure is a concern.

Once fully cured, VpCI-386 is thermally stable and can withstand a significant range of temperatures, from as low as $-150^\circ$F ($-78^\circ$C$) to as high as $350^\circ$F ($180^\circ$C$). This makes it suitable for a wide variety of operational conditions.

While VpCI-386 primarily provides a barrier and incorporates VpCI technology to protect metals from corrosion, it's always a good idea to consider specific primers or strategies for galvanic corrosion if dissimilar metals are in direct contact. The VpCI molecules work by forming a protective layer, which can certainly contribute to mitigating such issues.

Relevant products you may want to consider:
Cortec CorrVerter Rust Converter Primer
Cortec VpCI-325 Corrosion Protection Liquid
Cortec VpCI-326 Top Tier Corrosion Inhibitor Oil
Cortec VpCI-322 Corrosion Inhibitor Oil
Cortec CorShield VpCI-369 Outdoor Corrosion Inhibitor Spray

When applied correctly and in suitable conditions, VpCI-386 is designed for extended protection. It can significantly extend the service life of metal assets, especially in harsh outdoor settings, offering long-term corrosion prevention for multiple years without the need for frequent reapplication.

Absolutely, its robust performance and excellent UV resistance make it a great candidate for large-scale industrial structures such as bridges, pipelines, and other infrastructure exposed to outdoor conditions.

Yes, it is highly suitable for manufacturing environments. Its fast-drying properties and tough, protective barrier make it ideal for protecting various machinery, components, and equipment from corrosion, even in fast-paced production lines.

Indeed! VpCI-386 can be a great option for automotive and transportation applications, providing excellent rust prevention for vehicle frames, undercarriages, trailers, and other metal parts exposed to the elements.

Given its high salt spray resistance and ability to protect against corrosive electrolytes, VpCI-386 is well-suited for marine environments. It can offer significant corrosion protection for metal components on boats, ships, and other marine structures.

Relevant products you may want to consider:
Cortec VpCI-645
Cortec VpCI-644
Cortec VpCI-641 Water Based Rust Preventive
VpCI-649 BD

Yes, especially variants like EcoShield VpCI-386 HT Slip Coating, which are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and offer improved surface slip, making them beneficial for electrical conduits where wires need to slide easily.

Definitely. Applying VpCI-386 to metal parts can provide an excellent protective layer during storage, especially for outdoor storage, and also during shipping, ensuring that components arrive at their destination free from corrosion.

To ensure the best product performance, you should store VpCI-386 in its original packaging, indoors, and out of direct sunlight, ideally at temperatures between $40^\circ$F-$100^\circ$F ($4^\circ$C-$38^\circ$C). It's crucial to protect the product from freezing.

The product typically has a shelf life of one year when stored under the recommended conditions.

While it's considered environmentally friendly and non-toxic, it's always wise to practice good industrial hygiene. Ensure adequate ventilation during application, and for industrial use, keep it out of reach of children. Always consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for comprehensive safety information before use.

Cortec VpCI-386 generally does not recover if it freezes. Therefore, it's crucial to store it in a heated warehouse, especially during colder months, to prevent freezing and maintain product integrity.