Converting Gallons to Mils for Surface Area Coverage 1

[K4rm4]

Ok so I'm doing some cost estimating for the first time and I need to know how to convert gallons of paint/primer to mils for area. The drawing I have states that the primer needs to be 3-5 Mils thick on the metal. How do I find what kind of coverage area I can get per gallon in say square inches?

 

[rb1957]

you're asking us the volume of a gallon ?
I'd convert to liters (since i can remember that a lt = 1000cc) to in3 to in2 (*0.003)

i get 1 Imp gallon = 277in3, which would cover 641ft2
(or 481ft2 at 0.004" thickness)

US or Imp gallons ?

 

[boo1]

Subtract the paints VoC and some for waste (paint method dependent) then divide (the remaining) by the thickness desired (DFT), or read the manufactures sales data and subtract 10-20%.

 

[MintJulep]

Or get the TDS for the paint, where it will tell you.

 

[K4rm4]

The primer/paint is Ameron 385 Gray epoxy and I am using U.S. gallons. I tried to find manufacturers specs but google failed me.

What does TDS stand for?

 

[CoryPad]

TDS means Technical Data Sheet. The one for 385 is available from Ameron/PPG here:

http://www.ameroncoatings.com/usa/products/pdf/385_PDS_AI.pdf

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[K4rm4]

Awsome! You guys never dissapoint.

Thanks.

Justin

 

[JStephen]

The data sheet may also give a percent solids by volume, and you can work it out from there.

Knowing how much more you'll need than the theoretical amount is a matter of experience. Among other things, it would depend on the part geometry and the accuracy of the mil gauges being used.

 

[boo1]

and the applicator/method