Duplicolor Metalcast, anodizing in a can...

[supralover72]

Has anyone ever used this stuff on rc? It's been out a while and I was wondering if it's good or not.

http://www.duplicolor.com/products/metalcast.html

http://www.duplicolor.com/products/metalspecks.html

[squeeforever]

I honestly think its just a candy paint. When painted over aluminum, etc. it will look anodized to an extent. It will still look like paint I think. Mainly because paint is usually glossy, where as anodized is usually kinda flat looking.

[supralover72]

Really? It doesn't look that glossy in the pics. Thanks.

[squeeforever]

It's just a thought. I'm not positive, but it's a safe assumption. You can get it at Walmart I think, so I would pick up a can and try it. I might try some purple or orange now that I think about it.

[supralover72]

Yup, I will next time I'm there, thanks. I'll let you know how it goes.

[BrianG]

I tend to like the "hammered finish" paint on Aluminum. It is semi-glossy and creates a texture to hide many minor imperfections. See my BL Conversion link in my sig to see the results.

It does chip off eventually, but so will any paint.

I use regular flat paint as a primer (regular primer doesn't stick as well for some reason), and then only a light coat of the hammered paint is needed. Otherwise, you see the Al through the little pinholes the hammered paint creates and you'd need multiple coats.

[supralover72]

Thanks for the tip. Does it come in red?

[BrianG]

I don't know. I usually choose darker colors, so I don't remember seeing other lighter colors. I'd imagine they should.

[JThiessen]

Originally Posted by BrianG

I use regular flat paint as a primer (regular primer doesn't stick as well for some reason),

You are exactly right about that. I only know of one primer that is specifically made for AL, and it doesnt come in a spray can as far as I know. The best route for painting aluminum is to scotch brite it as best you can, then clean it thoroughly with Denatured Alcohol, and prime with a flat paint.

[BrianG]

Yep, I use a fine steel wool and thoroughly scuff it up, and then wash with dish soap and water. That gets all the fine metal dust and grease (fingerprints) off the surface. I suppose denatured alcohol would work too.

[JThiessen]

Denatured Alcohol helps to make sure you've gotten rid of any residual oils, like from your fingers, and any other chemicals that may impede a good adhesion.

[supralover72]

Thanks for the help guys!