What is exactly meant by Flash time? I read about it, but never see what they mean by it.
Thanks
Darren

This is kind of the text book definition.

Time which must be allowed after the application of a paint film before baking in order that the initial solvents are released, which prevents bubbling.

Just leave it in the paint booth for a little while to set.

What do you mean by a little while? An hour? ten minutes? and when baking, how long and how hot? Thanks for any answers.
Darren

Usually 15 minutes to half an hour.
It depends on temprature and the amount of reducer used. That is if your painting from non aersol and type of material, if using a bomb about 15 minutes is good unless it is cooler than 60 - 65*, then wait longer and don't go with any heavy or wet coats to avoid sagging.

That help?

Flash time should be on the label of the product you are spraying. Basically, it's the amount of time that you rpaint or primer needs to adhere to the old surface and allow the next layer to be applied without adverse effects....like runs or sagging in the paint. It allows the layer af material to set up properly. It varys with primer, paint, and clear.

If you don't have the flash times listed for your products, use other brands then. Go to a auto paint supply store and they will give you in-depth reading material soyou can fully understand what each part of the process is for and why you are doing it. You'll have the proper mixing ratios for each step of the painting process, with variations for temperature or thickness of material. It's well worth the time to look into it and understand why things are done. And, the information from the counter guys is usually invaluable. Stop in at a paint store and talk to the people there. You won't regret it. Here in Milwaukee, I deal with a PPG distributor called Milwaukee Paint/Allis Supply and the guys will walk you through every step, and will also explain what they themselves have done over the years. These guys are paint experts, and have been painting for years. It's nice to have a pro to talk with when you have questions.

Mark the paint guy

I agree with foxfire. After you have spent hours apon days preping you dont want to take chances with mistakes. Also a good thing to remember thinking of my first paint job. keep any silicone based product far away from the paint area. Fish eyes can seem almost impossible to get rid of. Good Luck.....

Thanks for all of that advice. I think you gave me the answer I was looking for.
Darren

you didnt mention the paint type you are using,acrylic laquer flashoff can be as little as 5 mins ,more for enamel type paints