Awlgrip brushing catalyst new formulation

Hi

I have recently been told that the usual 'roll and tip' method when brush applying Awlgrip topcoat is now defunct.

Awlgrip have developed a new formulation of brushing catalyst since batch numbers starting in NB which allows the applicator to simply roll the paint on and leave it to gloss out. Any attempt at tipping will lead to over working the paint and therefore not recommended.

Has anyone heard any mention of this from any other quarter, I have searched everywhere but cannot find any other reference regarding this and although having this information given to me directly from Awlgrip am finding it very hard to believe.

I know, that's what is making this hard to believe.

I am being told that this is no longer correct by some very senior employees at Awlgrip? I would be happy enough to give their names but don't know if this is relevant.

I purchased quite a substantial amount of catalyst last October and found it was very different to the catalyst I have been using for over 30 years.

It is cloudy, not clear, when mixed with the base and thinners there are no air bubbles formed whatsoever and once rolled on if it is then touched with a brush it reacts as if the surface is covered with silicone, it did eventually glass out as usual but only after an hour or two, making it impossible to check back for any sags.

I immediately stopped using it, brought it to the attention of Awlgrip and was told that the catalyst formulation was changed after batch number NB and it now had to be applied solely by roller, and tipping was no longer advised.

I also had to work through the change in formulation in 2010 and therefore accept that they do seem to deny there are any problems but then once sorted admit there were, which is of little help to the applicators.

I am hoping that someone else out there has had the same problems with batch numbers beginning with NB and if batches after this are now Ok.

I suspect that I am being given some untruths and that they have a bad batch or they are testing a new formula, and are not able or willing to admit to either, possibly due to litigation etc.

Any help would be appreciated.

That is a good idea, I'm still not at the point of finding an alternative, as for me apart from the 2010 problem and this current one Awlgrip has always been excellent, product and supply.

Hi
Thanks for that, on one hand it's not good to hear other applicators are having difficulties however it is actually reassuring to hear as it proves I'm not losing the plot.
I don't know why they have changed it, all I can hope is that they change it back asap, I've been using it for 25 years and in my opinion if it's not broke why fix it.
Currently looking at other paints until it gets sorted out.

Hi Ildan

If the batch numbers are anything after NF3222UU and up to PC5260UU I would be very suprised if you didn't have any problems.

The catalyst before the NF was clear the stuff since is like wallpaper paste.
I have been told they made the change to make it easier for yacht crews to repair any damaged paintwork!

Currently looking for any yacht crew who want to help a paint company apply paint!