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Multiple Choice

Which defect results in a surface texture similar to orange rind and is often caused by spray technique?

Orange peel is the defect that creates a surface texture like orange rind and is caused by spray technique. When the paint is atomized poorly or the film builds unevenly, the droplets don’t flow together smoothly before the coating dries, leaving a bumpy, dimpled surface that resembles citrus skin. This can come from using too thick a coating, inappropriate viscosity, wrong spray distance, or incorrect air pressure that disrupts atomization and leveling. Blistering would show raised bubbles from solvent or moisture attempting to escape under the film; runs are visible drips or sags; fish eye appears as small crater-like voids around contaminants. To prevent orange peel, adjust spray technique and parameters: ensure proper nozzle/condition, maintain a steady distance, control film thickness, use correct reducer and temperature, and allow appropriate flash time between coats so the surface can flow and self-level.

Orange peel is the defect that creates a surface texture like orange rind and is caused by spray technique. When the paint is atomized poorly or the film builds unevenly, the droplets don’t flow together smoothly before the coating dries, leaving a bumpy, dimpled surface that resembles citrus skin. This can come from using too thick a coating, inappropriate viscosity, wrong spray distance, or incorrect air pressure that disrupts atomization and leveling.

Blistering would show raised bubbles from solvent or moisture attempting to escape under the film; runs are visible drips or sags; fish eye appears as small crater-like voids around contaminants. To prevent orange peel, adjust spray technique and parameters: ensure proper nozzle/condition, maintain a steady distance, control film thickness, use correct reducer and temperature, and allow appropriate flash time between coats so the surface can flow and self-level.