GOLDEN BRASS

Transparent Top coats are made up of Clear Coat and color. Many applicators feel that applying these by “Hot-Flocking” is the best method. While this method may seem to be the easiest method it’s a short-cut that has ramifications. In our opinion this is not the best method for application and can be avoided if the right steps for prep and settings are taken into consideration. Having a good ground, correct voltage, well ventilated and large enough oven and being patient with the process will provide a fantastic finish. This is proven by the hundreds of on-line gallery images of transparent top coats shown on our website gallery.

Transparent powder finish consistencies are largely affected by application thickness so being patient, having the right tools (mil gauge) and utilizing the flow-out or gel-out process can improve your Transparent coating application. Applying too heavy and exposing to too hot of temps can cause what looks like a melting powder, runs and a brittle finished product.

Oven curing and where your burners are located can also have a lot to do with how a transparent looks when cured. Too close to a burner that is exposed directly to a part being cured can quickly burn/yellow that transparent coating. Making sure electric burners are diffused somehow. Remember that the oven may be at 375 or 400 degrees F where the thermostat is but those burners are much much hotter.

Here are links to an article and a video discussing applying a transparent top coat. These address why we don’t advise hot flocking and how to get an even coating when applying cold (room temperature).