Page 28 - CFCM Nov-Dec-2020 Final_Neat

industrial finishing: WOOD LACQUERS AND VARNISHES

Lacquers and Varnishes

Make Wood Glow

LACQUERS FOR WOOD have been around for millennia, the film properties of this system provide a tough, durable
and were already used in decorative wooden art-forms in finish that passes all KCMA performance standards,” Axalta
China around 1600 BC. That might make it seem like there’s states. The product is designed solely for professional
not much new to be discovered. application only, and while it is recommended for
But of course, chemistry and its applications are always cabinetry and wood furniture, it is not recommended for
pushing into fresh areas. And we no longer need to rely exterior applications.
on extracts of tree resins and insects, as the ancients did, It is offered in gloss, soft gloss and satin finishes, and
for the raw materials. features an 18-month shelf-life.
The public, however, expects an appealing look to The product can be tinted with approved industrial
wooden products. It also wants practical protection for colorants such as Opticolor XP. The maximum tint load is
them. 4 oz per gallon (three percent by volume).
Axalta has a broad portfolio of varnishes in its product Colorants must be mixed in completely with mechanical
lineup. A recent inclusion was its Ultraguard AUW 492X agitation before use. Users, Axalta says, should choose the
White Conversion Varnishes. appropriate sheen from the series and agitate the blend
These are post-catalyzed, acid cured topcoats formulated well before applying. While under agitation, the conversion
for high build and superior performance on MDF and other varnish can be catalyzed at a rate of three ounces oz per
wood substrates used in interior finishing. The company gallon (2.5 percent by volume) with CXC4000. This must
says they are easy to apply and offer superior film build, mix for five to 10 minutes or until the catalyst is thoroughly
scratch, chemical, and moisture resistance properties. incorporated.
“When properly applied with the companion undercoat, The company’s AUF472X Ultraguard Conversion

28 CAnADIAn FInISHInG & COATInGS MAnuFACTuRInG nOvEMbER/DECEMbER 2020