cm

I have just purchased an ARC Jupiter and intend painting the air frame. The
model is constructed in ABS plastic.

Tamiya Polycarbonate Spray Paint would appear to be ideal as it is fuel
proof,available and cheap, however the Tamiya website carries the warning
'Never use these paints on plastic models'!
http://tamiya.com/english/products/list/ps.htm

I had previously thought that polycarbonate was a plastic and that it has
similarities with ABS. Any thoughts or experiences please?

CM

boo

Interesting. I don't know what type of paint that is but I used Krylon on my
ARC Jupiter after carefully roughening the surface with fine grade emery sponges
from BeanQueue (used wet). I fuel-proofed with Tufcote. I would do the same
again but next time I'll thin the Tufcote to stop the very small bubbles that
formed and hopefully also slow the curing which was a bit rapid.

As to using the Tamiya PS paints then why not ask them if it's suitable ? I
presume by "plastic models" they are referring to polystyrene kits so it'd be
worth mentioning the destinction in your email.

If you do ask them then I'd be very interested to hear what their response is,
if it's not too much trouble to post it.

Cheers,

--
Boo

a.t.

The Tamiya "PS" series paints (polycarbonate series) etches into the plastic
and leaves a dull rough surface. This paint appears to be glossy only when
seen through the outside of the clear polycarbonate. The etching process
allows it to remain firmly attached to RC car body as it flexes whereas
Lacquers and enamels simply crack and peel off.
The PS paint is also used on metal models and then oversprayed with a clear
or matt coat.
PS may be used on plastic models which have been prepared with Tamiya Primer
or Preparacote.
Better to stick with the Tamiya "TS" series which is a hard lacquer (similar
to Topflite Lustercote) and fuel proof - leave to dry thoroughly between
coats and before exposure to fuel.

regards
Alan T
Alan's Hobby, Model & RC Web Links
http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~atong/
.................................................. ................

cm

Thanks, for the information, that clarifies the subject for me. I will
report back on my results.

CM

quicke

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic or "plastic." I believe they are
refering to polystyrene models which are really high impact or rubber
modified polystyrene plastics. ABS is acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
plastics and it is basically high impact polystyrene with a third
monomer thrown in for thermal and chemical resistance, among other
properties. I'm not sure of the solvent used in the "polycarbonate"
paint, but would guess if it attacks polystyrene, it's not going to be
great for ABS parts.