Standox has the solution for special colours

As OEM colours and finishes become increasingly spectacular and appealing to vehicle owners, repairing these three- or four-coat finishes requires special processes that can test refinishers’ expertise as well as the materials used.

“Car manufacturers are using exclusive special colours to maximise the visual appeal of their new models, like the current Alfa Romeo Giulietta in Rosso Competizione metallic, the latest Ford Fiesta in Candy Blue and the Renault Clio in Rouge Flamme,” says Jodie Henly, Standox brand specialist. “We have to make sure all Standox bodyshops are fully equipped with the knowledge, expertise and colours required to handle the repairs of these vehicles. In addition, we are continuously developing new formulas, colour matching tools and other refinishing solutions with these special tints in mind.”

The use of several coats, special pigments and coloured clearcoats make repairing these finishes quite a demanding task. Rosso Competizione requires, for example, a four-coat process comprising two basecoats, one coat of coloured Standocryl VOC 2K Clear Standox VOC Xtra Clear plus the clearcoat. Standox has developed special additives for the mixing of the clearcoat making the repair process a little more straightforward. The coloured clearcoats always determine the end result with these special colours; the final overall effect, brightness and brilliance of the colour Candy Blue, for instance, is driven entirely on the thickness of the coloured clearcoat.

Due to this complex refinishing process, Standox recommends bodyshops have their staff fully trained in the repair of special colours. The brand offers specialist courses on this subject throughout the year at the Refinish Academy.

For more information on Standox products, services and training courses, contact your local distributor or visit www.standox.co.uk.