Learning Objective: ldentify the procedures and equipment used in preparing and painting aircraft structures, surfaces, or components.

The primary objective of any paint finish is to protect exposed surfaces against corrosion and other forms of deterioration; however, there are other reasons for paint schemes. The reduction of glare, the reduction of heat absorption, camouflage, high visibility requirements, and identification markings are also objectives of a paint finish.

You will do some touchup painting because paint schemes are continuously used during the maintenance process. The publications related to aircraft painting are Paint Schemes and Exterior Markings for U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Aircraft, MIL-STD-2161(AS).

You should not repaint aircraft for the sake of cosmetic appearance only. A faded or stained but well-bonded paint finish is better than a fresh touchup treatment applied over dirt, corrosion products, salt spray, or other contaminants. Refinishing should be restricted to areas where the existing paint finishes are damaged or deteriorated. Because of age or exposure, some finishes fail to perform their protective function. The maintenance and repair of paint finishes is important. It begins when the aircraft is received and continues, with constant surveillance, throughout the service life of the aircraft.

Touchup painting is the repairing of small areas where the paint has been worn or removed because of corrosion, weathering, or erosion. The paint system may consist of a primer, a compatible topcoat, or a combination of primer and compatible topcoat. A paint scheme is the arrangement and description of the paint system. A topcoat is the finish coating material used over the primer. A primer is a base coat that improves adhesion and inhibits corrosion. Paint systems are identified by a decal or stencil located on the right side of the aft fuselage. All touchup and paint system maintenance procedures should be performed according to the local maintenance instructions and Ground Support Equipment Cleaning and Corrosion Control, NA 17-1-125.

Aircraft radomes, walkways, and leading edges require special coatings to satisfy service exposure requirements. Radomes and parts with similar elastomeric coatings should be repaired according to Aircraft Radomes and Antenna Covers, NA 01-1A-22. If the damage is beyond the limits specified, you should replace the component and send the damaged part to the next higher maintenance level for repair.

Containers used to hold paints, lacquers, removers, thinners, cleaners, or any volatile solvents should be kept tightly closed when not in use. They should be stored in a separate building or fire-resistant room that is well ventilated. The paint material should not be exposed to excessive heat, smoke, sparks, flame, or direct rays of the sun. Wiping rags and other flammable waste material should always be placed in tightly closed metal containers. Waste containers should be emptied at the end of each days work.