THE SOUTH AFRICAN PAINT INDUSTRY TRAINING INSTITUTE
SAPMA PAINT TECHNOLOGY COURSE
MODULE 8 - FORMULATION PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE

This is the last Module in the course. The Module deals with the general principles of formulating, and with the formulating requirements for various end use situations. Information presented in all the previous modules is utilised, and the student is required to apply this prior knowledge to the subject of formulating.

This is the culmination of the previous seven modules and completion of this should be the aim of Technical Personnel.

A review is made of the important information regarding media (from Modules 3 and 7) and pigments (from Module 4) and this information is presented in a convenient form. The main requirements of coatings systems, and the components of the systems, are discussed. The formulation requirements for six major end use areas are then discussed in detail by authors who are experts in each field.
The learning material comprises written text, divided into 18 lessons.

Towards the end of the Module, the student is required to undertake an investigative exercise, involving the formulation, preparation, application and testing of a coating material for a specific end use.

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.

PREREQUISITES FOR THE MODULE

Successful completion of .Module 1 - Basic Technology, Module 2 - Paint application, Module 3 - Solvents and media, Module 4 - Pigments and dispersion, Module 5 - Modifiers, Module 6 Evaluation and Module 07 - Convertible media.

SUMMARY OF SYLLABUS

A. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF COATINGS FORMULATION

Review of the principal classes and types of media
Constraints imposed by application methods
Principle properties required of a paint system
Influence of pigmentation on coatings properties
Function of requirements for, and differences in composition of the components of a coatings system

B. FORMULATION REQUIREMENTS

Formulation requirements, application methods, performance requirements for coatings for -
External woodwork
Wood finishing
High performance applications
General industrial powder coatings
Automotive coatings
Can linings

C. ASSIGNMENT

Conduct an investigative exercise, concerning a coating for a major area of end use, in the following manner .-
Identify the major factors of the problem
Devise a work schedule for experimentation
Conduct a programme of work including formulation, preparation, application and testing
Discuss health and safety aspects relevant to manufacture, application and usage
Be aware of material costs Interpret the results
Produce a written report, including a critical review of the work completed, and suggestions for any further work.

ASSESSMENTS

3 Multiple choice tests
1 Assignment
2¼ 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 18 weeks to complete. The average student would spend the following time on the various aspects:-
Theoretical study - 30 hours
Assignment - 30 hours
This averages out to just over 3 hours per week

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