The multitude of products and paints that exist and that are advertised in the industrial sector and vehicle repair market make it difficult to know the characteristics of every product. Especially since it is common for different brands to be used in the same workplace or for some of the products not to be used on a daily basis. For this reason, and in order to make the operator’s work easier, any manufacturer prepares the TDS (Technical Data Sheet) for each of its products, a document in which its technical characteristics are explained.
What is a TDS or Technical Data Sheet?
The TDS or technical data sheet is a consultation tool of a chemical product that the manufacturer makes available to the user to inform them in a clear, concise and simple way about the technical characteristics involved in using and handling it. Specifically, it is a text document that includes vital information for the operator. The written content is combined with graphics and pictograms that help the information provided to be understood. Any product that must be applied and is subject to a series of handling or safety conditions has its corresponding technical data sheet.
What information can you find on the data sheet?
The technical data sheet does not follow a common pattern amongst different manufacturers, however it is true that all of them usually include the same or very similar sections. In general, a data sheet always includes the following sections:
- Definition.
This section identifies the product and briefly describes it, highlighting the most important features that define it. Thanks to this information, it is easier to differentiate products and paints that are part of the same family (clear coats, putties, primers, etc.) in order to choose the one that best suits each type of work.
- Physical characteristics.
The information included in this second section provides data on certain tangible and measurable qualities that are of interest to the operator when learning about technical issues related to the product’s performance or technology. It is common to find information on their chemical nature, viscosity, solids content, performance or the thickness of the resulting coat after drying, among others. These data must be known before using the product, in order to ensure that it is correct for the type of application method (compatibility between paints, color, etc.)
- Directions for use/Preparation/Application.
This is the most important section of a technical data sheet, since it provides all the relevant information showing the conditions of the product (preparation of the substrate, drying, sanding, etc.) and the handling processes (mixing ratio, application method, etc.) provided by the manufacturer to ensure correct performance and finish. Depending on the technical data sheet, this chapter may also have other names or be complemented by other sections such as “Mixing ratio”, “Application method” or “Drying”.
- Observations/Recommendations for use.
The observations section is also very useful for the operator, since it provides certain tips and warnings that, if not taken into account, may affect the behavior, performance and finish of the product.
- Cleaning of the equipment.
Due to the variety of the chemical nature of the different products available, the manufacturer briefly indicates the cleaning product that should be used. These are generally solvent-based products, such as cleaning solvents, or water-based products.
- Safety.
The handling of chemical products is always associated with a series of risks that the operator must be made aware of in order to reduce or eliminate them. Since there is a specific document which lists everything related to the safety and risk prevention of each product in an orderly, adequate and complete manner, known as the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), the technical data sheets are limited to redirecting the operator to this type of document.
- Storage and reuse.
The very nature of the products that have a technical data sheet necessitates storage under specific conditions which, although not difficult to get right, are of vital importance, in order to avoid premature product deterioration or possible incidents. Generally, the indications are to store them in ventilated places, without direct exposure to the sun and heat sources, and within a specific temperature range.
- Guarantee.
Like many other perishable consumables, many of the products and paints in stock have a life span in which the manufacturer offers a warranty. Provided that the above conditions are maintained, any failure or defect caused by the paint is covered by the warranty.
While all of these sections are usually part of any technical data sheet, there are other more specific sections that are only found in some product families. Some of the most relevant examples are:
- “Complimentary products”
This chapter lists all the products required for mixing (thinner and/or hardener) and their temperature ranges for use, which is also essential when applying a product in certain environmental conditions.
- “Sanding”
Indicates how to sand the product after drying in terms of the tool used and recommended sanding grits. Any paint that is subsequently sanded includes this section.
- “Color chart“.
Today’s primers have different shades of gray, ranging from white to black, in order to make it easier to cover the different colors. The technical data sheets of these products include a table listing the different shades, their mixing ratios and their applications according to the color of the topcoat.
Why is it important to consult the data sheet?
It is important to consult the technical data sheet because it is the only way to know exactly all the information and data relating to a specific product, especially with regard to the preparation process of the substrate, mixing ratio, application, drying, sanding and behavior with certain external variables. All these aspects ensure the best possible result and finish, and if not taken into account, the risk of application problems and painting defects greatly increases.
Where can I find the data sheet?
The technical data sheet is always provided by the manufacturer through one of the following means:
- Through electronic means and printed.
- Integrated in the paint management software.
- Available from the manufacturer, such as on the website.
- Printed on the label of the cans and tins of different products. In this case, the information available is limited to how to work with the product (preparation, application, etc.).
Always consult the technical data sheet
Using certain products and paints can have a multitude of variables that can interfere with their performance and finish. For this reason, consulting the technical data sheets provided by the manufacturer is the only way to avoid these problems and achieve the best possible finish, especially when there are doubts about any aspect related to a specific product.
