Problem Powder Painting Ultra Steel

[mwh624]

Hi,

I've been trying to powder paint some ultra steel bullet weights using Pro Tec paint and I am running into problems. When the weights heat up they are emitting a black liquid substance. I have been able to work around this by wiping off the liquiud and using 2 coats of paint. But when I bake the weights, this black liquid causes major finishing issues and basically ruins the paint job.

1) Any body experienced this or know what the 'black liquid is and

2) Is this normal for ultra steel or do I just have a bad batch?

3)Lastly, what temp is the lowest I can cure the paint at and how long will it take.

Thanks, input is greatly appreciated

-Matt

[smalljaw]

I've never heard of this happening but I'll try to help. How are you heating the weights? It sounds almost as if the weights are coated in plastic, because if you burn plastic it will turn black and get into a fluid state which sounds like the same thing you are experiencing. The lowest temp I know of to cure powder is 270 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes which is what is recommended for those who cast jigs with the weed guard in place.

[mwh624]

I've tried heating via 2 methods. A toaster oven and a heat gun with the same results. I'm pretty sure they weights aren't covered in a plastic but I'm not sure. Thanks for looking

[Gloomisman]

pressed bonding agent maybe?????????????

[now thats a fish]

Sounds like an episode of the X-Files.

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Sorry couldn

[mwh624]

yeah its emitting fumes/smoke. I'm gonna try and cook the weights for an hour or so tonight and see if this solves the problem.

[Tony Maxwell]

Some of my tungsten weights have a nylon? sleeve down the middle so the fishing line doesn't fray.

[ROWINGADUBAY]

might try to bake, then clean, then paint, and bake again just a thought

Good

luck

George

[Stagio]

Well this may be a long shot, but the Ultra Steel sinkers may have a blueing?!? oil used on them similar to what is used on guns to prevent corrosion while stored. This may be coming out when they are heated.

Also, some Ultra Steel weights are scent impregnated--since steel is porous, they have this opportunity and their website indicates this option is available.

For either, I would suggest using a heavy duty degreaser or even soaking them in something like goof off for a bit prior to painting. This may strip those properties out and allow you to get a good finish.

I have used the Vinyl paints--not impressed. Powder all the way for me if you can remedy the mystery goo.

Good luck!

[mwh624]

Well, I finally got some info back from the manufacturer. Turns out they are treated with Aqua Sol #3 to prevent rusting. Still waiting back to see if they will send me some untreated.

Thanks for the suggestion of the heavy de-greaser. I think I will try soaking them to see if that works. Cooking them for a LONG time allows me to get a nice product after dipping, However, I am not able to cook them long enough after powder painting to get a cured durable finish (black stuff bubbles through the paint).

I also tried vinyl painting and am pretty impressed with the durability but agreed, it doesn't produce as nice of a finished look as the powder paint.