Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

January, 2005

CARC Primers MIL-P-53022, MIL-P-53030, CARC Topcoats MIL-DTL-64159 and MIL-C-53039

Q. What is the difference between the primers 53022 and 53030? What is the difference btween MIL-DTL-64159 and MIL-C-53039? The intent is to provide a paint system that is "environmentally friendly" (CARC and water bourne).

A. MIL-P-53022 and MIL-C-53039 are solvent based low-VOC primer and topcoat resepctively. MIL-P-53022 is a lead and chromate-free, two-component epoxy primer whereas the MIL-C-53039 is as moisture curing polyurethane.

MIL-P-53030 is a three-component lead- and chromate-free, low-VOC waterborne primer and MIL-DTL-64159 is the new waterborne two-component polyurethane.

Either the the two systems, solvent or waterborne, are environmentally friendly and you should select the one that best suits your painting operation.

Best wishes,

Ron Joseph