Whether it's batch priming or wet-on-wet priming mode, the launch of PPG's next generation primer, D8505 DP4000 2K Primer Grey G5 (commonly called DP 4000), is set to give bodyshops unprecedented freedom to re-think their traditional preparation processes.
According to PPG, it gives freedom from many time-consuming sanding operations, freedom from being locked into the small recoat window of conventional primers – in short, freedom from the limitations of conventional primers.
DP4000's breakthrough primer technology has radically extended the recoat window. Users now have the freedom to recoat panels anywhere between 15 minutes and five days after DP4000 has been applied, giving versatility to prime jobs when it suits.
It also makes batch priming of new parts a very attractive option.
A booth full of new parts can be primed in one go and then topcoated whenever the rest of the job is ready (within the five-day recoat window).
Compared with wet-on-wet priming mode, batch priming eliminates the flash-off time of a conventional wet-on-wet primer, saving around 15 minutes of spray booth cycle time per job.
For paint shops under pressure, that frees up extra spray booth capacity which can be used to paint additional jobs.
The advanced formulation of DP4000 has also created a super-smooth consistency with outstanding flow, which is particularly ideal in wet-on-wet priming mode where it leaves a smooth as silk finish.
Importantly, whatever mode it’s being used in, the smooth finish means there's absolutely no need to sand before topcoating. Using DP4000 also eliminates the need to sand new e-coat panels (a quick degrease is all that's required) which reduces process time while retaining the e-coat's corrosion protection.
Another time saving feature of this new high performance primer is its ability to be applied directly over small rub-throughs (no bigger than 10cm in diameter) on bare metal, including aluminium and galvanised steel.
The hassle of having to apply etch primer over a rub-through before applying conventional primer can be a thing of the past – simply hit it with DP4000 and it's done.
It also efficiently deals with sensitive substrates, such as solvent-sensitive areas or a past repair that could cause issues.
Here, DP4000 can be relied on to quickly and effectively seal it off to give the following layers an excellent foundation to build on.
With all these advantages to using DP4000, the great news is there’s no compromise – it’s easy to use, has excellent topcoat holdout and works equally as well with PPG's GRS solvent-borne and Envirobase HP waterborne paint systems.
Its performance has even been recognised by Mercedes Benz of Germany, when it became the first wet-on-wet primer ever approved by the prestige car maker.
According to PPG Refinish product and technical services manager, Hugh O'Neill, easy application, combined with minimal sanding and a long recoat window, means bodyshops can look forward to reduced prep time which will boost bodyshop productivity and profitability.
"DP4000 is a real breakthrough and, with all its features including a recoat window from 15 minutes to five days, it now sets the standard for wet-on-wet primers,” O’Neill said. “It really is a sensational product to use with no side effects. I'll be very surprised if this isn't our top selling primer within just a couple of months.”
DP4000 is now available in Australia and PPG estimates it will be launched in New Zealand later this month.
For more information call PPG's Customer Service hotline on 13 24 24 (Aust) or 0800 320 320 (NZ).