Cortec VpCI® 387 Acrylic (Water-Based) Hi-Build Topcoat
Cortec VpCI® 387 Acrylic (Water-Based) Hi-Build Topcoat
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VpCI® 387 Water-Based Topcoat is your ultimate solution for fast-drying, high-build protection in demanding outdoor applications. You can apply this top-of-the-line, one-coat system directly to metal surfaces (DTM).
Harness the power of a sophisticated blend of non-toxic, organic corrosion inhibitors. VpCI® 387 delivers top-tier protection and rivals the performance of most conventional paints and zinc-rich primers. Its versatile formula extends its shielding capability to multiple metal types. It has comprehensive multi-metal protection for various industrial applications.
One of the standout features of VpCI® 387 is its outstanding UV resistance. It is a reliable choice for projects exposed to intense sunlight and extreme weather conditions. With this water based topcoat, your assets will maintain their appearance and structural integrity for prolonged periods, even under the harshest outdoor, unsheltered environments.
Additionally, the water-based nature of VpCI® 387 ensures easy application, reduced environmental impact, and a quick drying time. It is the ideal choice for projects requiring fast turnaround times without compromising on quality.
To top it off, VpCI® 387 offers an extensive range of custom colours. It provides you the flexibility to match the coating to your specific aesthetic preferences or industry requirements. Whether you seek exceptional protection for equipment, infrastructure, or any metal surface, VpCI® 387 is the go-to solution for reliable, long-lasting, and visually appealing results.
Packaging and Storage
The available packaging options for VpCI® 387 include 5 gallons and 55 gallons. Packaging selections are either pails, drums, bulk containers or liquid totes. It is essential to protect the product from freezing.
Shelf life: One (1) year.
Application
Surface preparation is essential before applying the coating. Ensure that the substrate is entirely free from dirt, grease, drawing compound, rust inhibitors, oil, or other impurities that may impact adhesion. For production line use, it's advisable to apply VpCI® 440 during pre-treatment process.
In protecting structural steel, Cortec® recommends SSPC-SP6/NACE#3 as a minimum requirement in blast cleaning. A recommended wash primer, like VpCI® 373 green, should be applied at a thickness of 12.5 to 25 microns before using VpCI®-387. Alternatively, you can opt for VpCI® 375, 395, or 396 depending on specific coating requirements.
Before application, ensure dew point of at least 2°C, which is lower than the room air temperature. Use a mixer with squirrel cage like container or hand-held mixer for uniform consistency. Other equivalent methods are good to power agitate the mixture. You can use brushing, rolling, spraying or dipping to apply VpCI® 387.
Equipment Set-up
For optimal application, we recommend using either conventional spray or airless equipment setups, depending on your preferences and project requirements.
Conventional/HVLP Spray
For HVLP or Conventional Spray application, select a tip size between .009" to .021", taking into account the fluidity and pressures. Maintain the air pressure within the range of 45 to 55 psi and the fluid pressure at 10 psi.
You should use an ID fluid hose with a diameter of 0.95 cm and a length of 15.2 meters maximum. Keep the pot equipped with two controls and at the same, consistent elevation as the spray gun to ensure best results.
Air-Assisted/Airless
If you choose this method, opt for a tip size ranging from .015" to .035", considering the viscosity & pressures used. The recommended pressure range for this setup is 1800 up to 2500 psi. Utilise a 0.37 inches I.D. hose as a minimum requirement, but for easier application, you can use a 0.25 inches I.D. whip end section. In this case, a maximum hose length of 30.5 m is the best options.
Cleanup
For cleanup purposes, it is essential to clean tools and equipment promptly after use while the paint is sticky and wet. Use water for this initial cleanup phase. In case the paint has dried, you can use MEK or Butyl Cellusolve for effective cleaning. Remember to adhere to the recommended safety procedures when using these solvents.
Product Specifications (.PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
• What exactly is Cortec VpCI-387, and what makes it special compared to other paints?
Cortec VpCI-387 is a high-build, water-based acrylic topcoat designed to offer superior corrosion protection. What truly sets it apart is its ability to be applied directly to metal (DTM) and its inclusion of non-toxic, organic corrosion inhibitors, which work to shield various metals from rust and deterioration, even in harsh, outdoor environments, often outperforming traditional paints and even zinc-rich primers.
• How does this topcoat actually protect metals from rust and corrosion?
This innovative topcoat employs a sophisticated blend of non-toxic, organic inhibitors that create a robust, self-healing molecular layer on the metal surface. This protective barrier actively prevents moisture, oxygen, and other corrosive elements from reaching the metal, effectively stopping the electrochemical processes that lead to rust and corrosion, even if the coating gets scratched.
• Is Cortec VpCI-387 suitable for outdoor use, especially in challenging weather?
Absolutely, Cortec VpCI-387 is specifically formulated to provide exceptional protection in harsh, outdoor, and unsheltered applications. It boasts excellent UV resistance, meaning it can withstand intense sunlight and extreme weather conditions without degrading its protective qualities or appearance.
• Can I get this topcoat in different colours to match my project's aesthetics?
Yes, one of the great advantages of Cortec VpCI-387 is its versatility in aesthetics. It can be matched to most custom colours, giving you the flexibility to meet specific aesthetic preferences or industry requirements for your equipment, infrastructure, or any other metal surface you're coating.
• How does VpCI-387 contribute to environmental sustainability, being a water-based product?
Being a water-based acrylic topcoat, VpCI-387 offers several environmental benefits. It has a low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to solvent-based alternatives, and it's non-flammable, which enhances safety during application and storage.
• What kind of metals can I expect VpCI-387 to protect effectively?
Cortec VpCI-387 provides multi-metal protection, meaning it's highly effective across a broad range of metal types. This makes it a versatile solution for diverse industrial applications where different metals might be present and require consistent corrosion resistance.
• What's the typical shelf life of Cortec VpCI-387 if stored correctly?
When stored properly in its tightly closed containers in a heated warehouse to prevent freezing, Cortec VpCI-387 generally has a shelf life of one year from the date of manufacture.
• Does this product offer any benefits beyond corrosion protection, such as physical durability?
Beyond its primary role as a powerful corrosion inhibitor, Cortec VpCI-387 is a hi-build topcoat, meaning it creates a thicker film. This added thickness, typically 6-8 mils (150-200 microns) DFT (Dry Film Thickness), provides enhanced physical protection, contributing to the overall durability of the coated surface.
• Before applying Cortec VpCI-387, what kind of surface preparation is absolutely essential for optimal results?
For the best adhesion and long-lasting performance, it is crucial to ensure the metal substrate is entirely free from any dirt, grease, drawing compounds, existing rust inhibitors, oil, or other impurities. This meticulous cleaning prevents any interference with the coating's bond to the surface.
• Are there any specific cleaning standards recommended for preparing the surface before applying this topcoat?
Yes, for preparing structural steel, Cortec recommends achieving a minimum standard of SSPC-SP6/NACE#3 through blast cleaning. This ensures a clean and appropriately profiled surface for the VpCI-387 to adhere to.
• Can I use a wash primer before applying VpCI-387, and if so, what's recommended?
Yes, it's highly recommended to apply a wash primer, such as VpCI-373 Green, at a thickness of 12.5 to 25 microns before using VpCI-387, especially for critical applications. Alternatively, you can consider VpCI-375, 395, or 396 depending on your specific coating needs and conditions.
• Is there a specific environmental condition, like temperature or humidity, I should be mindful of during application?
When applying, ensure the dew point is at least 2∘C (3.6∘F) lower than the room air temperature. This helps prevent condensation on the surface which could compromise adhesion and the curing process.
• How should I prepare the product itself before applying it to ensure it's ready to go?
Before application, it's essential to thoroughly mix Cortec VpCI-387 to achieve a uniform consistency. You can use a mixer with a squirrel cage-like container or a hand-held mixer, or any other equivalent power agitation method.
• What are the common methods for applying Cortec VpCI-387, and which ones are generally recommended?
You have several flexible application options for VpCI-387, including brushing, rolling, spraying, or dipping. For optimal results and efficiency, especially for larger areas, conventional spray or airless spray equipment setups are generally recommended.
• If I'm using conventional or HVLP spray equipment, what tip size and pressures should I aim for?
For conventional or HVLP spray, select a tip size between 0.009" to 0.021", adjusting for the fluidity and pressures. Maintain air pressure within the range of 45-55 psi and fluid pressure at 10 psi, using a 0.95 cm (0.375") ID fluid hose with a maximum length of 15.2 meters (50 feet).
• What are the recommended settings for airless or air-assisted spray application of VpCI-387?
For airless or air-assisted spraying, choose a tip size ranging from 0.015" to 0.035", taking into account the viscosity and desired pressures. The recommended pressure range for this setup is between 1800 to 2500 psi. You should use a minimum of 0.375 inches I.D. hose, though a 0.25 inches I.D. whip end section can be used for easier application, with a maximum hose length of 30.5 meters (100 feet).
• What's the recommended wet film thickness (WFT) to aim for when applying this topcoat?
The normal wet film thickness (WFT) to achieve the recommended dry film thickness is typically 13-15 mils (325-375 microns).
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• How quickly can I expect Cortec VpCI-387 to dry to the touch after application?
Cortec VpCI-387 is designed to be fast-drying, typically reaching a "dry to touch" state within 30-60 minutes, assuming standard conditions of 70°F (21°C) at 50-55% relative humidity.
• What is the approximate time it takes for the coated surface to be dry enough to handle?
The product will generally be dry enough to handle within 4-6 hours, allowing for relatively quick turnaround times for your projects.
• How long should I wait before applying a second coat of Cortec VpCI-387, if needed?
For optimal recoat adhesion and performance, it's generally recommended to wait until the first coat is "dry to handle," which typically means waiting approximately 72 hours before applying a subsequent coat.
• What is the full temperature resistance range once the VpCI-387 coating has fully cured?
Once fully cured, Cortec VpCI-387 offers excellent temperature resistance, withstanding temperatures ranging from -150°F to 350°F (-78°C to 180°C).
• What should I use to clean my tools and equipment immediately after applying VpCI-387?
For easy cleanup, it's best to clean your tools and equipment promptly after use while the paint is still wet. Simple water can be effectively used for this initial cleanup phase.
• What if the Cortec VpCI-387 has already dried on my tools – how should I clean it then?
If the paint has already dried, you will need to use stronger solvents for effective cleaning. MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) or Butyl Cellosolve are recommended for dried paint, but always remember to adhere to recommended safety procedures when using these solvents.
• How does Cortec VpCI-387 perform in salt spray conditions, a common test for corrosion protection?
Under ASTM B 117 salt spray conditions, Cortec VpCI-387 has demonstrated impressive performance, providing 500 hours of corrosion protection at a dry film thickness of 5-6 mils (125-150 microns) on carbon steel.
• What kind of long-term corrosion protection can I expect from this product under typical conditions?
Cortec VpCI-387 is engineered for long-term corrosion inhibition, providing excellent protection for metal substrates for up to 10 years in tough atmospheric conditions.
• Can this topcoat be used over a primer, or is it strictly a direct-to-metal application?
While Cortec VpCI-387 can be applied directly to metal (DTM), it can also be used effectively in conjunction with a primer, provided that compatibility between the primer and the topcoat has been checked and confirmed.
• Are there any situations where using Cortec VpCI-387 is not recommended or has limitations?
It's important to avoid using Cortec VpCI-387 in situations where the coating will be immersed in water or other liquids for prolonged periods, as this could potentially lead to softening of the film and compromise its protective qualities.
• What are the common packaging sizes available for Cortec VpCI-387?
Cortec VpCI-387 is commonly available in 5-gallon (19-liter) pails, and also in larger 55-gallon (208-liter) metal drums, liquid totes, and bulk quantities, depending on your project scale.
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• What specific storage conditions are necessary to maintain the product's integrity?
To ensure the product's integrity and prevent damage, it is crucial to keep Cortec VpCI-387 from freezing. It should be stored in tightly closed containers in a heated warehouse. The minimum storage temperature is 32∘F (0∘C), and the maximum is 120∘F (49∘C).
• Is there anything important to consider regarding lead times when ordering Cortec VpCI-387, especially during certain seasons?
Yes, it's worth noting that lead times for this "made to order" product can be substantially increased during winter months due to freezing conditions that necessitate heated truck shipping. Typically, there's an approximate lead time of 3 weeks after an order is placed, with this winter exception.
