Humidity Problem

Q. Our company paints aerospace parts using a number of MIL spec. coatings. Our paint booth was put in more than 10 years ago at a minimal investment. We now have higher demands to place on it, but we frequently have humidity problems with it. Today, for example, the humidity reading in our paint room is 83%. Many of the specs call for no more than 50% humidity allowed.
What type of vendor should we contact to solve our problem. We’ve talked to HVAC types locally and have not been able to find a vendor who can offer a solution. P. S.

 

A. If you paint parts for aerospace applications, which are exposed to hostile environments, the coatings must be applied in compliance with the MIL Specs. If the spec calls for coatings application at less than 50% RH and you are applying at 83% RH, you are not in compliance.

After ten years, you’ve gotten your money out of your existing spray booth. To be in compliance with the specs, you must install an enclosed spray booth having humidity and temperature controlled makeup air. Normally an HVAC contractor would not be the vendor to contact concerning paint spray booths. Instead, you must contact suppliers of these booth are listed in the PRODUCTS FINISHING DIRECTORY AND TECHNOLOGY GUIDE (www.pfonline.com/suppliers.html) on Pages 410 and 412, under Spray Booths, paint and powder coating.