THE SOUTH AFRICAN PAINT INDUSTRY TRAINING INSTITUTE
SAPMA PAINT TECHNOLOGY COURSE
MODULE 6 - EVALUATION

This Module deals with the background to, and the nature of, most of the tests that are carried out on coating films.

The student is required to be familiar with all of these tests, to be able to make a critical evaluation of the test methods and of the significance of the results, and to design a test specification relating to the end use of the product.

This is also a short module, and like Module 5, requires only 30 hours of study.

The learning material comprises written text, divided into 10 lessons.

Seven practical exercises are given, out of which the student chooses five to carry out. The practicals are designed to emphasise the need to control all possible variables, and in particular through the use of standard test methods such as SABS or BS Standard methods.

In addition, the student has to submit one assignment, in which a test specification is drawn up for a coating of the students choice.

WHO SHOULD STUDY THIS MODULE ?

This Module is essential for those who are following a technical career path, and in particular those in a laboratory environment. It is also particularly useful for employees of paint applicators or end users, and who are engaged in quality control or specifying.

PREREQUISITES FOR THE MODULE

Successful completion of Module 1 and Module 2 and preferably Module 3 although it is not felt to be mandatory.

SUMMARY OF SYLLABUS

A. INITIAL PREPARATION AND TESTING

Reasons for testing Examining liquid paint
Preparation of test panels

B. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES

Flexibility
Hardness
Impact
Adhesion
Measurement of flexibility (bend mandrel) and hardness (rocker or pendulum methods) Measurement of hardness (scratch tester) and adhesion (cross hatch)

C. RESISTANCE TO LIQUIDS AND VAPOUR

Immersion and spotting tests
Salt spray
Humidity
Water immersion
Permeability
Weathering - artificial and natural
Determine the resistance of films to various liquids
Assess the corrosion resistance of several coatings by means of the salt spray test
Carry out exposure tests on coatings using the QUV apparatus
Examine the resistance of a paint film to tobacco smoke

D. HEAT AND FIRE RESISTANCE

Investigate the heat resistance and fire retardant properties of various films.

E. BIOLOGICAL AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES

Fungal resistance
Marine fouling
Dielectric strength

F. COLOUR CHANGE

Use of spectrophotometer
Blue wool scale and grey scale

G. TEST SPECIFICATIONS

Components of a test specification

ASSESSMENTS

4 Multiple choice tests
5 Written reports on practical work
1 Assignment
1½ hour written exam at end of module

PASS MARK

A minimum of 50% in each of the three modes of assessment is required for a pass.
A merit pass is awarded for an overall mark of 80% or above, and a distinction is awarded for an overall mark of 90% and above.

DURATION AND TIME INVOLVED

The Module takes 9 weeks to complete. The average student would spend the following time on the various aspects :-
Theoretical study - 20 hours
Practical exercises - 10 hours
Report writing - 6 hours
This averages out to just over 5 hours per week
The work can be spread over a full semester

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