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.

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.