*TB 43-0118

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY TECHNICAL BULLETIN

FIELD INSTRUCTIONS FOR PAINTING AND

PRESERVING COMMUNICATIONS-ELECTRONICS

EQUIPMENT

Headquarters, Department of the Army, Washington, DC

15 June 1986

REPORTING ERRORS AND RECOMMENDING IMPROVEMENTS

You can help improve this bulletin. If you find any mistakes
or if you know of a way to improve the procedures, please let
us know. Mail your letter or DA Form 2028 (Recommended
Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) direct to:
Commander, US Army, Communications-Electronics
Command and Fort Monmouth, ATTN: AMSEL-ME-MP, Fort
Monmouth, New Jersey 07703-5007. A reply will be furnished
directly to you.

Paragraph Page
SECTION I. INTRODUCTION
Purpose ........................................................................ 1-1
Safety ............................................................................ 1-2
Personnel Protection .................................................... 1-3

II. PAINTING
General Information....................................................... 2-1
Unprotected Surface Problems ..................................... 2-2
Cleaning and Surface Preparation ................................ 2-3
Application of Coating ................................................... 2-4
Paint Problems ............................................................. 2-5

This publication Is required for official use or for

administrative or operational purposes only. Distribution is
limited to US Government Agencies. Other requests for this
document must be referred to Commander, US Army
Communications-Electronics Command and Fort Monmouth,
ATTN: AMSEL-ME-P, Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703-5007.

*This bulletin supersedes TB 43-0118, 19 December 1975, including all changes.

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III. CAMOUFLAGE PATTERN PAINTING

General.................................................................................... 3-1
Preparation for Pattern Painting ............................................. 3-2
Camouflage Equipment Items/Patterns ................................. 3-3
APPENDIX A. References .............................................................................
B. Supplies...................................................................................

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SECTION I

INTRODUCTION

1-1. PURPOSE. This technical bulletin is published for the guidance of personnel responsible for painting,
maintenance, and preservation of communications-electronics equipment in the field. This technical bulletin does not apply
to CECOM antennas installed on Army Aircraft. See TB 746-93-2, Painting and Marking of Army Aircraft, for guidance on
this subject.

CAUTION

Do not paint radiating elements, reflectors, radoms, wave-guides, and insulators until
specific direction on the painting materials to be used is available, or the items are
known to have been painted previously with Chemical Agent Resistant Coating
(CARC).

1-2. SAFETY.

a. General.

(1) To remove any hazard presented by the accumulation of gases or flammable vapors, work areas shall
be well ventilated whenever paint or solvent is being used. Safe operating procedures shall be observed at all times
especially when handling volatile solvents and during spraying operations.

(2) Fire regulations shall be strictly observed and fire extinguishing equipment shall be available in the
immediate work area.

(3) Goggles and/or masks shall be worn whenever compressed air is used for sandblasting or spraying and
during grinding and buffing operations. Synthetic rubber gloves shall be worn when solvents are being handled.

(4) Only shop approved solvents shall be used. The use of gasoline, diesel, benzene, kerosene, and
aromatic naphtha is prohibited. In addition to the safety hazards presented by their use, these solvents cause damage to
natural rubber.

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WARNING

Adequate ventilation should be provided while using

TRICHLOROTRIFLUOROETHANE. Prolonged breathing of vapor should be avoided.
The solvent should not be used near heat or open flame; the products of
decomposition are toxic and irritating. Since TRICHLOROTRIFLUORETHANE
dissolves natural oils, prolonged contact with skin should be avoided. When
necessary, use gloves which the solvent cannot penetrate. If the solvent is taken
internally, consult a physician immediately. Do no use compressed air to dry parts
when TRICHLOROTRIFLUORETHANE has been used.

(5) Rags and wiping cloths impregnated with oil or other flammable material should be disposed of in
sealed metal containers, or dried thoroughly in well-ventilated areas to reduce the danger of spontaneous combustion.

(6) Safety color code markings and signs, when considered necessary for the protection of personnel and
equipment, shall be used and maintained in accordance with AR 385-30, Safety Color Code Marking and Signs.

(7) Preparations containing benzene should not be used for spraying. Only vaporproof lamps should be
used where spraying is being done.

(8) Paints shall be stored in GSA issued containers away from work buildings.

(9) Do not apply heat or flame to drums, cans, or other containers that have contained solvents, thinners, or
other paint material.

b. Fumes. Thinners used with paints may have harmful effects. Continued breathing of fumes during and after
painting operation should be avoided. Toxic fumes will persist, in some cases, for many days indoors after painting
operations.

c. Contact with Paint Materials.

(1) Avoid skin contact with paint materials, particularly if there are cuts or open wounds on the hands.

(2) The thinners and solvents have the capability to remove natural oils from the skin so protective clothing
and gloves must be worn to protect from spills and splashes.

(3) The paint materials called for in this bulletin dry and harden fast. Once dry, the primer or paint is difficult
to remove from the skin so adequate protection must be provided for the face and hands.

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d. Fire.

(1) The mist that comes from a spray gun is highly flammable. A spark will cause it to flash.

(2) Smoking is prohibited in paint shops or within 50 feet of an area where spray painting is being done.

(3) Open cans containing paint removers, thinners, paints, and paint materials are a fire hazard. Empty
drums or other containers in which solvents, thinners, and similar materials have been shipped are potential hazards,
since they often contain enough vaporized material of a flammable nature to cause explosions. See paragraph 2-1e for
disposal guidance.

(4) Accumulated spray in booths and in cracks and corners of the paint shop is particularly dangerous for it
easily flares up in spontaneous combustion.

(5) Fires which occur in spray booths result from six principal causes: broken electric lamps and other
electrical defects; cleaning interior of booths, fans, and motors with highly flammable solvents; accumulation of deposits in
the booths, tubes, and vents pipes; defective fans and motors used for ventilating the booths; poorly designed vent tubes;
static electricity.

1-3. PERSONNEL PROTECTION.

a. Monitoring. Medical surveillance is required for personnel who work more than 30 days per year in painting
operations where respiratory protection is required. Personnel regularly involved in painting at the general support
(intermediate, rear) level will normally require medical surveillance. Contact the supporting medical/occupational health
activity for guidance.

NOTE

Spray painting shall not be done at the organizational or direct support (intermediate, forward) level.

b. Equipment. Respiratory protection is afforded either by airline or fitter type masks. Personnel at the general
support level engaged in spray painting while indoors shall use airline respiratory protection unless the supporting
medical/occupational health activity conducts statistically valid samplings of the work site showing that the filter types of
protection will be adequate.
c. Outdoors. Personnel at the general support level engaged in spray painting while outdoors will be adequately
protected by a filter type respirator provided the work area is not under a roof less than 16 feet high or where two or more
sides are blocked. If under a low canopy or in a situation where air flow is obstructed, as above, the airline respirator shall
be worn.

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d. Brush or Roller. The only painting operation where respiratory protection is not required must meet all the
following conditions:

(1) Use of brush or roller.

(2) Working outdoors, or in an enclosure larger than 10,000 cubic feet, for instance, a 20 by 30 foot floor
with a 17 foot ceiling.

(3) Use of one quart of paint or less.

WARNING

ONE QUART MEANS ONE QUART PER DAY PER PAINTER.

SECTION II

PAINTING

2-1. GENERAL INFORMATION.

a. Definitions. Although the term "paint" does not generally apply to some coating materials, such as lacquer,
polyurethane, varnish, and others, the words "paint" and "painting" are used here in broad sense for simplicity.

b. Painting. Any painting operation involves three basic steps; preparation of the surface; application of the
primer or undercoating; application of the finish coat. Paint is used primarily for two reasons: Protection of equipment and
material from the harmful effects of inclement weather, moisture, rust, fungus, decay, and other corrosive agents; and
appearance. Other important reasons are described below:

(1) Paint is used to camouflage material and equipment for concealment and/or visual deception. When
used for this purpose, it may be applied directly over the finish coat. Information on camouflage pattern painting is
contained in Section III of this bulletin.

(2) Paint is also used to increase visibility of potential hazards, safety devices, and other objects or areas
where care or caution should be exercised for safety of personnel and property.

(3) Some paints are ultraviolet absorbtive and/or infrared reflective. The chemical composition of the paint
determines its properties and suitability for use on various communications-electronics equipment configurations.

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 *TB 43-0118

(4) Chemical agent resistant coating (CARC) and epoxy paints establish a relatively impervious surface that
facilitates chemical decontamination efforts. These coatings provide significant improvements in durability and corrosion
resistance.

c. Accessories. Some of the painting and accessory materials available for the purpose of this bulletin are:

(1) Strippers. Strippers are liquid or jellied solvents used to remove paint chemically and may be applied by
brush, roller, or spray. When used, be careful to avoid contact with the skin. Before repainting after strippers have been
used, the surface shall be thoroughly washed clean. Directions on the container shall be followed to insure safe handling
and best results.

(2) Primers. Primers are used as corrosion or moisture resistant undercoating. They serve as a fast
adhering base for the finish or topcoat. The proper type of primer must be used for good results. (Refer to Table 1 and 2.)

(3) Topcoats. The topcoat is the final or finish coat applied over the primer.

(4) Thinners. Thinners are volatile solutions used to thin or reduce paint to the desired consistency. The
type of thinner which may be used and the recommended quantity usually are stated on the paint container. (Refer to
Table 2.) Thinners may also be used to aid in clean up of painting equipment.

d. Requisitioning Information. A list of some recommended painting materials is in Appendix B.

e. Disposals. Because of low ignition temperatures, paints, primers, thinner, and contaminated painting supplies
shall be disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with AR 420-47, Solid and Hazardous Waste Management.
Additional disposal guidance is available from the local support engineer activity.

WARNING

Component "B" and water vapor can cause a chemical reaction producing enough pressure to explosively rupture a sealed
container. Mix unservicable Component "B" material from epoxy, PUP, or primer with its matching unservicable
Component "A" material before sealing up for transport to a designated disposal site. Never mix Component "B" material
from different types of paint, an explosive chemical reaction may result.

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 *TB 43-0118

2-2. UNPROTECTED SURFACE PROBLEM. The life of equipment will be curtailed if it is not protected from corrosion,
oxidation, and harmful agents.

a. Corrosion and Deterioration. Corrosion is the disintegration of metals by chemical reaction with other
elements. Left unchecked, corrosion destroys the usefulness of metals, and the importance of preventing it cannot be
overemphasized. Some of the types of corrosion are described below:

(1) In iron and steel. Corrosion of ferrous metals is called rusting, which exists in two forms: black rust and
red rust.

(a) Black rust. This type is produced by intense heat encountered in heat treatment, hot rolling,
welding, or torch cutting. Its action is not progressive under ordinary conditions.

(b) Red rust. Red rust is ferric oxide and/or ferric hydroxide. It is caused by the action of water and
oxygen or iron and steel and is very destructive. Unless it is completely removed from the metal, its action will progress
beneath the surface rust and will aggravate the condition until it is removed and the metal is treated properly.

(2) Corrosion of nonferrous metals. Corrosion of nonferrous metals may result from the action of water and
oxygen, or by reactions caused by other chemicals or corrosive substances. Some of the indications of corrosion of these
metals are:

(a) Discoloration. This type appears as a white or gray powder on aluminum, magnesium, zinc, and
other alloys. On copper and copper alloys, it may appear in various colors.

(b) Caked corrosion. This type has generally progressed to a point where the surface is etched or
pitted when the coating is removed.

b. Corrosive Substances and Agents. Bare metals are corroded by electrolytic action which occurs by action of
oxygen and moisture. The action is increased when other factors are present, such as high temperatures and the action of
other substances. Some of these substances and agents are described below:

(1) Acid deposits and solutions. Acidic corrosion may be due to residue from acid cleaning soldering flux, or
decomposition of other materials, or by certain gases as determined by the equipment’s previous environments.

(2) Alkaline deposits and solutions. These substances corrode aluminum, zinc, and other alloys.

(3) Gases and fumes. These corrosive agents are more prevalent in industrial areas where the atmosphere
is contaminated as a result of manufacturing process.

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 *TB 43-0118

(4) Salts. The action of common salt and other water soluble salts is very destructive to metals. Salt may be
deposited by sea water and air, rock salt used to melt ice or snow, perspiration from the hands or soldering flux.

c. Fungus and Mildew. The growth of fungus, such as mildew and mold, is a serious problem, especially in
warm, damp climates. Fungus will thrive on organic materials and on metal surfaces that are finished with organic coatings
or on which dirt and other deposits are allowed to accumulate.

d. Inspection. Corrosion and deterioration are constant destructive factors which cannot be neglected;
equipment and materials should be inspected regularly to prevent and minimize such damage. A few minutes spent in
removing corrosion and protecting against deterioration may save many hours and dollars on major repairs which might
otherwise be necessary if such damage is not detected at an early stage.

2-3. CLEANING AND SURFACE PREPARATION.

WARNING

Compressed air shall not be used for cleaning purposes except where reduced to
less than 30 psi and then only with effective chip guarding and personnel protective
equipment. Compressed air is dangerous and can cause serious bodily harm if
protective means or methods are not observed to prevent a chip or particle from
being blown into the eyes or unprotected skin of the operator or other personnel.

a. General. A thoroughly cleaned surface, free from any contaminants, is essential if effective preservation is to
be assured. If the surface is not completely free from contaminants, they will interfere with the adhesion of the follow-on
coating. Paint and other protective coatings will not adhere properly over foreign matter, such as oil, grease, dirt, moisture,
or old paint that is loose or badly cracked.

b. Cleaning Bare Metal. Before the first coat of paint or primer is applied, the metal surface should be cleaned
and thoroughly dried. Dirt, oil, and grease should be removed by mineral spirits, paint thinner, dry cleaning solvent, or by
washing with alkali solution. Alkali cleaning should be followed with thorough rinsing, preferably with hot water. Rust,
corrosion, and loose scales should be removed by wire brushing (power driven or manually), sanding, or chemically with
metal conditioner corrosion-removing compound. Once the surface has been cleaned, it should be sanded with flint
abrasive paper, starting with grade No. 1 and No. 2 and finishing with No. 000. All dust must be removed by dust brush,
vacuum cleaner, or airhose. Wipe with a clean cloth wetted with a thinner compatible with the primer to be applied (see
Table 2.). Wipe dry with a clean cloth.

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c. Cleaning Deteriorated Paint. Painted surfaces which show signs of deterioration, such as peeling and scaling,
should be prepared for reconditioning as follows:

(1) If the prime coat is in good condition, the affected topcoat should be sanded smooth.

(2) If the prime coat is in poor condition, the paint should be removed by stripping, or by sanding if more
practical.

(3) If a small portion is in poor condition, only the affected areas should be refinished. After the paint is
removed, the surrounding edge of the original finish should be feathered to eliminate the distinct edge.

d. Cleaning Rubber. Synthetic and natural rubber articles should be washed with clean, lukewarm water or mild
soap solution to remove dirt, grime, oil, and grease, which are specially harmful to rubber. Eyepieces and earpieces should
be lightly dusted with powdered technical talc after cleaning. Electrical insulating parts should be cleaned with
TRICHLOROTRIFLUOROETHANE.

e. Cleaning Connectors. Connectors should be cleaned with TRICHLOROTRIFLUOROETHANE. Male contacts

should be wiped with the same solution. Female contacts should be cleaned the same way with a toothpick or small brush.

f. Cleaning Plastics. Plastics vary widely in chemical and physical characteristics. Paint thinners shall not be
used for cleaning plastics. Clean water and a mild soap solution may be used in most cases.

2-4. APPLICATION OF COATING.

WARNING

Do not apply paint to the metal surface directly under a ground terminal; a clean, bare
metal surface is required for a good electrical ground lead connection.

a. General. The method used to paint depends on the extent of the job to be done, materials to be used, tools
and facilities, and time available. Spraying is faster and results in a smoother surface than other methods; however, the
time and labor required to set up spray equipment may not be justified by the amount of work to be done, such as
extensive masking. Rollers are practical for most large areas. Brushes are used where rolling or spraying, brushing is
impractical or unsuitable. For a detailed description of spraying, brushing, and rolling techniques and care of equipment,
refer to TM 43-0139.

b. Special Instructions. The performance characteristics of radiating elements, reflectors, and radoms can be
degraded by the application of a primer or topcoat not specifically required by the equipment developer. If the equipment
technical manuals do not specify the required painting materials, the supporting logistic structure should provide
identification of the materials to be used for painting the equipment.

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c. Hot Surfaces. The primers, polyurethane, and epoxy paints identified in this bulletin should not be painted
over surfaces such as exhausts, mufflers and turbo-chargers which will be subjected to temperatures in excess of 400
degrees F. Heat resistant paint must be used, Appendix B.

d. Nameplates, Decals, and Other Markings. Be careful not to paint over nameplates, decals, modification work
order (MWO) information, or other markings or labels. If practical, these items should be removed or masked before
painting.

(1) If it is necessary to remove or cover MWO information as a result of a painting operation, the MWO data
should be recorded for reference and reapplied in accordance with the original MWO instructions.

(2) An exception to this instruction is encountered when repainting an S-250/G shelter which has an
instruction plate directing the use of MIL-E-46061 enamel. The instruction plate should be painted over.

(3) Major end items, items with data plates, painted with polyurethane paint shall be marked "CARC" using
block letters as large as possible, up to one inch. The marking will be as close as possible to the equipment data plate. A
contrasting color shall be used for the marking, for example, green marking in a black surface or black marking on a green
surface.

e. Primer.

(1) The choice of primer is determined by Environmental Protection Agency and Occupational Safety and
Hygiene Agency regulations. See Table I.

(2) The surface to be painted should be cleaned thoroughly in accordance with surface preparation
instructions contained in paragraph 2-3.

(3) Primer Mixing. Mixing operations must be conducted in a well-ventilated area away from open flames,
welding torches, and combustion heaters. Personnel doing the mixing shall wear eye protection (eye glasses, splash
goggles, or face shield) and clothes providing full skin coverage,
especially gloves. Droplets of mixed epoxy primer on the skin harden quickly
and are difficult to remove.

(a) Component "A" of the epoxy primer will require stirring to ensure even distribution of all
ingredients. If mechanical paint shakers are not available, a paint stirring accessory for the three-eighths inch drill can be
used.

(b) Components "A" and "B" of the epoxy primer must be mixed together in strict accordance with
instructions provided with the kit. Containers used for mixing must be clean and dry.

(c) Component "B" should be slowly stirred into Component "A" while mixing epoxy primer. The
blended contents should be stirred for about 20 minutes until the mixed contents form a smooth uniform liquid.

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(d) If necessary, the epoxy primer should be thinned with MIL-T-81772 thinner to a consistency permitting
smooth brush application.

NOTE
Do not use any other thinner for epoxy primers.

(e) The properly mixed primer must be allowed to stand for 30 minutes prior to use.

(4) Once the epoxy primer components are mixed they must be used or disposed of; the mixture cannot be
saved for future use. At 70 degrees F the useful pot life of the epoxy primer is about 15 hours. As temperatures go up, the
useful lifetime goes down. Approaching 100 degree F the average pot life goes down to approximately 6 hours.

(5) Primer Coat. Primer coat should be sprayed or brushed on in a good workmanship like manner. If large,
unbroken areas are to be painted, use of rollers should be considered. When possible, the item or materiel painted should
be kept in a dry, dust-free place while the primer dries.

(6) Cleanup. Cleanup of equipment used for mixing and application of the epoxy primer must be
accomplished within the pot life of the primer or the materials will have to be disposed of. Use MIL-T-81772 thinner for
cleaning. Personnel must wear eye protection and protective clothing while using this thinner.

f. Topcoat.

(1) The choice of topcoat, or finish, shall be made according to the previous finish and/or the following:

(a) Paint the exterior of communications-electronic shelters three color camouflage pattern. If the
pattern is not available, paint with lusterless green 383, MIL-C-46168. Paint the floors, walls, doors and fittings, semi-gloss
green, 24533, MIL-C-22750; ceiling, aircraft white, MIL-C-46168.

(b) Tactical communications equipment and fixed facility equipment (such as radio station equipment
or telephone control office sets) are painted lusterless green 383, MIL-C-46168.

NOTE

The fixed equipment may be painted aircraft gray, MIL-C-46168.

(c) Paint avionics, radiac, meterological, and marine communications electronic equipment lusterless
green 383, MIL-C-46168.

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(2) Mixing operations must be conducted in a well-ventilated area away from open flame, welding torches,
and combustion heaters. Personnel doing the mixing shall wear eye protection (i.e., safety glasses, splash goggles, or
face shield) and clothes providing full skin coverage, especially gloves. Droplets of mixed polyurethane paint and epoxy
enamel on the skin harden quickly and are hard to remove.

(a) Component "A" CARC or epoxy enamel must be thoroughly agitated by shaking or stirring for up
to 30 minutes to ensure solids settled to the bottom of the container are again placed into suspension as a smooth,
uniform liquid. If mechanical paint shakers are not available, a paint stirring accessory for the three-eights inch drill can be
used.

(b) Components "A" and "B" of CARC or epoxy enamel must be mixed together in strict accordance
with instructions provided with the kit. Containers used for mixing must be clean and dry. Component "B" should be slowly
stirred into component "A", this stirring should continue for about 20 minutes until the mixed contents form a smooth,
uniform liquid.

(c) Once the Component "B" container is opened it should be used that day. If the normally clear
liquid turns a milky color with a crystalline consistency it should not be used.

g. Thinning. Two component paint (CARC, epoxy enamel), should be thinned to a consistency permitting
smooth brush application with thinner MIL-T-81772. Do not use any other thinner. The mixed paint must be allowed to
stand 15 minutes prior to use.

h. Pot Life. Once the CARC or epoxy enamel has been mixed it must be used or disposed of; the mixtures
cannot be saved for future use. As temperatures go up, the useful lifetime goes down; approaching 100 degree F the
average pot life goes down to approximately 2 hours.

i. Hot Surface. The surface to be painted should be no less than 55 degrees and no more than 100 degrees F
during and for at least 4 hours, preferably 6 hours, after application. A minimum surface temperature of 55 degrees F is
necessary for good adhesion.

j. Second Coat. A second polyurethane coat may be applied within a few minutes of the first or anytime
thereafter. The only requirements for proper adherence of the second coat are clean surface and light scuff sanding if the
first coat has fully cured. Polyurethane paint can be applied directly over any clean, sound existing finish with the exception
of aircraft lacquer.

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k. Touchup Painting. In touchup painting a perfect match with the exact shade of the original paint surface may
not be possible. All touchup painting will be performed using CARC or epoxy finishes. Prevention of deterioration and
restoration of the camouflage are the most important consideration in touchup painting; appearance is secondary. This,
however, should not be taken to mean that appearance of the equipment is not important. Touchup painting should be
accomplished neatly and in good workmanship-like manner. Inspection personnel in the field should make allowances for
slight color mismatch where minor touchup has been done but not neglect, poor workmanship or cases where the need for
refinishing is obvious.

2-5. PAINTING PROBLEMS. Listed below are some undesirable paint conditions:

a. Alligatoring. Alligorating is characterized by irregular separations and wide cracks in the finish coats, and is a
severe form of checking which is described in e below. These conditions are usually due to a soft undercoat, or the
application of the finish over an underlying coat which was not thoroughly dried. To correct this condition, remove the
affected paint and refinish.

b. Bleeding. Bleeding refers to a condition caused by the absorption of pigment from an underlying coat by the
vehicle or solvent used in the topcoat. If this condition is not too severe, an additional finish coat may be sufficient to
correct it; otherwise, the paint should be removed and the area refinished with recommended primers and finish coats.

c. Blistering. Blistering is the formation of bubbles or pinpoints on the surface of the topcoat. Minute blistering is
hard to identify without a magnifying glass. Sometimes this condition may be confused with dirt in the paint. Pricking the
affected area will reveal the true condition. Blistering may be caused by moisture, rust, or other foreign matter, improperly
cleaned surface, or differences in temperature between the surface and the paint when applied. Correct this condition by
removing the affected paint and refinishing.

d. Chalking. Chalking is caused by formation of a thin film on the surface. In many instances this condition can
be corrected by polishing the affected area or by sanding it lightly with flint abrasive paper No. 000.

e. Checking. Checking is characterized by thin, straight lines crisscrossing each other. The lines usually
increase in number and length as the paint ages. When this condition exists, the affected paint should be removed and
surface refinished.

f. Chipping. Chipping refers to damage caused to the paint by sharp blows or gouging. This condition can
usually be corrected by touchup painting.

g. Cracking. Cracking is caused by the curling of the paint; it is usually the result of poor mixing or change in
temperature during the application of the primer and finish coat. Affected areas should be refinished.

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h. Crowfooting. Crowfooting has the appearance of a crow’s foot, with small lines branching in all directions and
crisscrossing each other. It may be the result of the application of a topcoat before the previous coat dried sufficiently, by
thinners which evaporate too fast, or by thick coats. This condition may be corrected by sanding the topcoat and
refinishing, or by removal of the paint and refinishing, depending on the extent of deterioration.

i. Foreign Matter. Foreign matter, such as dirt in the paint, causes a poor finish. It is sometimes confused with
blistering. Affected areas should be sanded and refinished. If the condition is extensive, the paint should be removed and
the surface repainted.

j. Orange Peel. An orange peel finish resembles the surface of the fruit. It is usually caused by improper
thinning. This condition usually can be corrected by sanding and refinishing the affected area.

k. Peeling. Peeling is caused by the separation of the finish coat from the primer, or the primer from the surface.
It is generally the result of paint being applied on an unclean or wet surface and should be corrected by refinishing, as
necessary.

l. Runs and Sags. Runs and sags are the collection of paint on the surface caused by the application of too
much paint. This is an appearance defect which can be corrected by refinishing.

m. Scratches. Scratches are marks in the paint which may or may not penetrate through the painted surface,
and can usually be corrected by touchup painting.

n. Wrinkling. Wrinkling may be caused by too much paint, improper brushing, or improper mixing. The wrinkled paint
should be sanded smooth or removed entirely, and the surface refinished with recommended materials.

SECTION III

CAMOUFLAGE PAINTING

3-1. GENERAL

a. Camouflage. Military equipment has characteristic shapes and interior shadows which contrast with natural
surroundings and make the object more conspicuous. Pattern painting does much to break up the equipment’s physical
characteristics by using lusterless paint to reduce the glare of highlights, by the use of specially selected colors to reduce
contrasts with surrounding soil and vegetation, and by use of pattern shape, size and placement to obscure and distort the
equipment’s form and outline.

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(1) The pattern design for each type of equipment has color areas that cut off corners; avoid straight
vertical and horizontal lines and extend internal shadows in shapes similar to natural environmental features of terrain and
vegetation.

(2) Pattern painting makes the equipment much harder to see and recognize as a military object. It also
provides an excellent base for further, more complete camouflage. If properly sited, the pattern painted item will require
much less effort to camouflage (foliage and vegetation) than a solid color object.

b. Pattern Painting/Designs.

(1) The camouflage pattern consists of wavy, irregular patches of color applied to the equipment. The
pattern designs, when traced out on the item serve as a guide for painting the design developed for the specific item of
equipment.

(2) The design is an outline drawing on which wavy lines give the boundaries of the color area. Within each
such area is a number that stands for the color to be used in that area.

c. Marking Pattern on Equipment. Touch up of areas that include two or three colors requires an outline on the
equipment showing color boundaries. Use a light chalk line or marker to draw the boundaries. Precision is required in
marking the pattern design. The shape and placement of the pattern to be touched up must be within plus or minus 1 inch
of the original pattern design.

3-2. PREPARATION FOR PATTERN PAINTING.

a. General. Review the general painting information contained in Section II before proceeding with camouflage
pattern painting.

(1) The first step in pattern painting is to thoroughly clean all surfaces to be painted. Applying paint to a
surface that has not been properly cleaned will result in rapid peeling and cracking and scaling of the new coating. Grease,
oil, dirt, plastic letters, stars and other insignia, and all loose and scaling paint must be removed.

(2) Sanding of rough areas to remove the oxidized surface from the old paint will also make the new job
look better and last longer. If bare metal is exposed following sanding and cleaning, a primer coat is applied. The primer
should be allowed to dry before the finish coat is applied. All glass, grease fittings, and items which can be damaged by
paint must be masked with masking tape and paper. Refer to paragraph 2.4d for additional precautionary information on
masking of nameplates, decals, and other markings. Unless part of the camouflage pattern, do not paint over rubber-like
items designed to flex. The finish will eventually breakup and fall off.

16
 *TB 43-0118

b. Markings. All white markings must be removed or covered including stars, unit identification, instruction signs,
and administrative markings. When the item is pattern painted, the following markings are applied in lusterless black, MIL-
C-46168.

(1) Unit Identification. Type and location remain the same. Color is changed to lusterless black.

(2) National Symbol. Stars will be removed and replaced by a 3-inch black lusterless star front and rear on
line with unit ID markings.

(3) Agency and Registration Number. Both U.S. Army and registration number will be removed from the
exterior. Registration number may be placed on a data plate or other suitable interior location.

(4) Safety and Instructional Markings. Markings such as tire pressure, fuel type, and fill-level may be
retained in lusterless black letters no larger than 1 inch. Markings directly related to safety must be evaluated by the
Commanding Officer or safety personnel. Refer to AR 750-58.

17
 *TB 43-0118

3-3. CAMOUFLAGE EQUIPMENT ITEMS/PATTERNS

To be provided when available.

TABLE 1
PRIMERS

Primer, Epoxy Coating, Corrosion Primer of choice-lead and chromate

Inhibiting, MIL-P-53022 free primer for use on Ferrous
(Steel) or Non-Ferrous (Aluminum)
surfaces.

Primer, Epoxy Coating, Water Reducible Volatile Organic Components (VOC)

MIL-P-53030 compliant, lead and chromate free
for use on Ferrous or Non-Ferrous
surfaces.

These primers can be used with either MIL-C-46168 (CARC) or MIL-C-22750 (Epoxy).

TABLE 2
DRYING TIME AND THINNER

PRIMER DRYING TIME THINNER

MIL-P-53022 30 Minutes MIL-T-81772 Type I

MIL-P-53030 30 Minutes MIL-T-81772 Type I

FINISH DRYING TIME THINNER

MIL-C-22750 (Epoxy) 7 Hours MIL-T-81772 Type I

MIL-C-46168 (CARC)(See Appendix 3 Hours MIL-T-81772 Type I
B Outline)

18
 *TB 43-0118

APPENDIX A

APPLICABLE REFERENCES

AR 385-30. Safety Color Code Marking and Signs.

AR 420-47. Solid and Hazardous Waste Management.

AR 750-58. Painting, Camouflage Painting, and Marking

of Army Material.

DA Pam 310-1. Consolidated Index of Army Publications and

Blank Forms.

TM 5-618. Paints and Protective Coatings.

TM 43-0139. Painting Instructions for Field Use.

TB 746-93-2 Painting and Marking of Army Aircraft.

TB 750-10. Painting, Replating and Preserving

Instructions for Communications Security
Equipment.

A-1/(A-2 blank)
 *TB 43-0118

APPENDIX B

SUPPLIES

DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION

Remover, Paint, Epoxy and MIL-R-81294

Polyurethane

1 Gallon 5 Gallon
8010-00- 8010-00-
181-7568 926-1488

Remover, Paint MIL-R-46073

1 Gallon
754-2518

Primer, Epoxy, Lead and MIL-P-53022

Chromate Free
1 Quart Kit 1 Gallon Kit 5 Gallon Kit
8010-01- 8010-01- 8010-01-
193-0516 193-0517 187-9829

Primer, Epoxy, Water Reducible

1 Quart Kit 1 Gallon Kit 5 Gallon Kit

8010-01- 8010-01- 8010-01-
193-0519 193-0520 193-0521

Thinner, Type I, (See MIL-T-81772

Footnote)

1 Gallon 5 Gallon
8010-00- 8010-00-
181-8080 181-8079

Coating, Epoxy, Polyamide MIL-C-22750

Green (24533)
1 Quart Kit
8010-01-
211-2645

White (27875) 1 Gallon Kit

8010-01-
106-0114

B-1
 *TB 43-0118

Coating, Chemical Agent Resistant MIL-C-46168

Polyurethane

1 Quart Kit 1 Gallon Kit 5 Gallon Kit

8010-01- 8010-01- 8010-01-
Light Green 141-2421 128-6957 131-6256
Forest Green 141-2411 128-6958 131-6257
(Type 1) )
Forest Green 144-9888 144-9874 144-9881
(Type 2)
Green 383 160-6741 162-5578 160-6742
(Type 2)
Brown 160-6744 160-6745 160-6746
Dark Green 141-2412 130-3343 141-0611
Olive Drab 141-2413 130-3344 131-6258
Field Drab 141-2414 130-3345 148-3662
Earth Yellow 141-2415 130-3346 131-0612
Sand 141-2416 130-3347 141-6259
Earth Red 141-2417 130-3348 131-6260
Earth Brown 141-2418 134-0383 132-4986
Desert Sand 142-0132 131-6253 135-9985
Black 141-2419 131-6254 131-6261
Aircraft Gray 144-9882 127-8908 144-9876
Aircraft White 144-9883 144-9872 154-9877
No. 37875

Paint, Aluminum, Heat Resisting TT-P-28

1 Quart 1 Gallon 5 Gallon

8010-00- 8010-00- 8010-00-
664-7468 815-2692 857-1938

Paint, Heat Resisting MIL-P-14105

(For Steel Surfaces)
Grey (16376) 1 Gallon
8010-00-
877-6415

Olive Drab (34088) 1 Gallon

8010-00-
616-4009

Pails, Mixing
1 Quart Kit (5 Pints) 7240-00-889-3785

1 Gallon Kit (5 Quarts) 7240-00-061-1163

B-2
 *TB 43-0118

NOTE: For spray painting, General Support (Intermediate, rear) only, thin CARC, MIL-M-46168 with Type I thinner, use
Type II thinner with the primers and epoxy paints list is this Appendix.

Thinner, Type II MIL-T-81772

1 Gallon 5 Gallon
8010-01- 8010-01-
200-2637 212-1704

B-3/(B-4 blank)
 *TB 43-0118

By Order of the Secretary of the Army:

JOHN A. WICKHAM JR.

General, United States Army
Official: Chief of Staff

R. L. DILWORTH
Brigadier General, United States Army
The Adjutant General

DISTRIBUTION:
To be distributed in accordance with DA Form 12-34C literature requirements for TB 43-0118.

*U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1994 0 - 300-421 (01135)

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