Orange Peel

Description

Pebbled, uneven surface of the paint film, similar in appearance to orange skin.

Cause

Failure of the paint droplets to coalesce on the surface.

This may be due to:

1. Poor spraying technique, spray gun too far from surface, incorrect compressed air pressure, incorrect nozzle adjustment.
2. Excessively thick or thin film.
3. Paint incorrectly mixed, wrong viscosity, poor quality or incorrect thinner.
4. Insufficient drying time between coats, cold air fanning to speed drying.
5. Incorrect ambient or surface temperature, draughts.

Prevention

1. Use the correct spraying technique and ensure that equipment is correctly adjusted.
2. Apply paint in thin even coats.
3. Ensure that the paint is correctly mixed, use only recommended thinner with the correct grade.
4. Allow sufficient drying time between coats.
5. Spray within the recommended temperature range and ensure proper ventilation.

Rectification

Rub out the orange peel, compound and polish. In severe cases it may be necessary to flatten and repaint the surface.