TM 43-0139
uniform consistency, the majority of the products described in this manual are not damaged by freezing. CARC coatings
(MIL-C-46168, MIL-C-53039, and MIL-C-22750) cannot be used after being frozen, however. Low temperatures do tend
to increase the viscosity of paints, varnishes, and like materials. This makes their application difficult, and impairs the
adhesion if they are applied when temperatures are very low. High temperatures may cause a soapy, foamy condition, or
a chemical change of the oils in a paint or varnish, and make them unusable.
NOTE
CARC paints have a shelf life of one year. This one-year shelf life can only be
reached if CARC paint is stored at a proper temperature range of between 32°F and
120°F.
c.
Up-end containers every 90 days when they are stored on end, or rotate them one-half turn every 90 days when
they are stored horizontally.
d.
Do not store partially filled containers without tightly installing lids, covers, or caps.
e.
Do not store paints, varnishes, or other flammable materials near steam pipes, open flames, or where there is a
danger of flying sparks, such as from welding equipment.
f.
Paint and paint thinners shall be stored separately from other materials such as grease, oil, and spare parts.
Rags, wood, and similar matter shall not be stored in the same area as paints and paint thinners.
g.
To avoid possible leakage from rusted containers, protect containers against rain, snow, steam leaks, and other
sources of water.
h.
Each container should be labeled with complete instructions as to the type of material, the thinning ratio, the
thinning material, and color, gloss, and application data. Each container should also be labeled with safety warnings and
cautions.
i.
Maintain a perpetual inventory of all materials when the volume is large enough to warrant the effort. Install a
system of dating for each shipment received. Use the oldest stock first since aging causes certain types of coatings to
lose their gloss and to thicken to such an extent that they are rendered useless. Black enamels have a particular tendency
to lose their gloss and drying properties upon aging.
j.
After the shelf life of a paint has been reached, if samples of the paint conform to the specification requirements
for viscosity, drying time, application, thinning, gloss, and color, and if the condition in the container reveals no excessive
skinning, hard settling, or resin separation, the shelf life may be extended by 50 percent (i.e. a one-year shelf life would be
extended by six months). This includes storage extension for CARC paints.
3-11. TIPS ON PAINTING
Certain basic precautions are applicable to paint, varnish, enamel, and lacquer. The following should be observed at all
times:
a.
Do not paint over an unclean surface. Be sure all dirt, rust, scale, etc., are removed.
b.
Do not fail to stir paint thoroughly.
c.
Do not mix one paint with another unless instructed to do so.
d.
Do not fail to follow instructions which appears on containers, particularly those concerning safety, the addition of
thinner, and the application instructions.
e.
Do not apply paint or varnish unless the drying conditions are satisfactory.
3-8