What is 545 Epoxy Primer Converter and why choose it?
Awlgrip 545 Epoxy Primer Converter (D3001) is the curing component of the 545 Epoxy Primer system, a two-component epoxy coating designed for interior and exterior use in professional and industrial environments. When mixed at 1:1 by volume with 545 Epoxy Primer Base (D8001 White or D1001 Gray), it produces a multi-use, corrosion-resistant primer that seals undercoats and surfacing primers before the application of topcoats.
The converter enables excellent adhesion on a wide range of substrates, both above and below the waterline, and provides outstanding corrosion protection that extends the life of the complete coating system.
Main features
- Two-component epoxy converter for 545 Epoxy Primer Bases D8001 (white) and D1001 (gray).
- Dual-purpose system: seals both undercoats and surfacing primers in a single product when used with 545 Base.
- Excellent adhesion to steel, aluminium, wood and GRP when the full primer system is properly applied.
- Corrosion-resistant epoxy chemistry that increases the longevity of the paint system.
- Suitable for use above and below the waterline, applied by spray, brush or roller (as part of the mixed primer).
- Professional-grade performance with defined pot life, recoat windows and compatibility with Awlgrip and Awlcraft topcoats.
Technical specifications
System and components
- System type: Two-component epoxy primer (converter component).
- Product code (SDS code): OD3001.
- Compatible bases: 545 Epoxy Primer Base D8001 (White), 545 Epoxy Primer Base D1001 (Gray).
- Recommended reducers (for mixed primer): T0006 (spray), T0031 (brush/roller).
- Auxiliary component for cold conditions: M3066 Cold Cure Accelerator (for temperatures below 25°C / 77°F).
Physical data (converter as supplied)
- Product type: Mixture (epoxy converter).
- Appearance: Colorless liquid.
- Odor: Solvent.
- Density: 0.975 g/cm³ (DIN EN ISO 2811-1).
- Boiling point: 79°C (174.2°F).
- Flash point: 7°C (44.6°F) closed cup (Pensky–Martens).
- Auto-ignition temperature (key solvents): 2-methoxy-1-methylethyl acetate 333°C; butanone 404°C.
- VOC (theoretical, as part of mixed 545 Epoxy Primer): 518 g/L; 4.32 lb/gal; 414 g/kg; 0.41 lb/lb.
- Solubility in water: Not soluble (cold water, OECD TG 105).
- Kinematic viscosity (converter): 14 mm²/s at room temperature and at 40°C (DIN EN ISO 3219).
Primer system data (converter + 545 base, typical values)
- Mix ratio (Base : Converter): 1 : 1 by volume.
- Volume solids (unthinned mixed primer): 40%.
- Specific gravity (mixed primer): 1.25.
- Recommended application methods: Brush, roller, or air-atomized spray.
- Recommended number of coats: 3 coats by brush, roller or air-atomized spray.
- Recommended wet film thickness (per coat): 87 µm (3.4 mil).
- Recommended dry film thickness (per coat): 35 µm (1.4 mil).
- Maximum DFT per coat: 45 µm (1.8 mil).
- Theoretical coverage (per coat at recommended DFT): 11.6 m²/L (472.6 ft²/gal).
- Minimum recommended DFT after sanding: 50–75 µm (2–3 mil). An additional coat may be required to reach the minimum.
Drying and recoat times (mixed primer)
Drying times vs. temperature
- 15°C (59°F): Touch dry 3 h; hard dry 10 h; pot life 16 h.
- 25°C (77°F): Touch dry 2 h; hard dry 6 h; pot life 16 h.
- 35°C (95°F): Touch dry 30 min; hard dry 3 h; pot life 8 h.
Recoat intervals with compatible products (545 Epoxy Primer, 545 Brush/Roller, Awlcraft 2000, Awlcraft 3000, Awlcraft SE, Awlgrip HDT, Awlgrip Topcoat, Awlquik, Epoxy Surfacing Primer, High Build, Ultra Build):
- 15°C (59°F): Recoat min 16 h, max 24 h.
- 25°C (77°F): Recoat min 12 h, max 24 h.
- 35°C (95°F): Recoat min 8 h, max 24 h.
Recoat with 545 Epoxy Primer Spray only:
- 15°C (59°F): min 2 h, max 24 h.
- 25°C (77°F): min 60 min, max 24 h.
- 35°C (95°F): min 60 min, max 24 h.
After 24 hours, sanding is required before recoating. Sanding is recommended at any time to improve adhesion and appearance.
Application and mixing parameters (mixed primer)
- Mix ratio (by volume): 1 part Base : 1 part Converter.
- Induction time after mixing: 15 minutes.
- Recommended thinning:
- Brush/Roller: 5–10% with T0031.
- Air-atomized spray: 0–25% with T0006.
- Typical spray setup (air-atomized): fluid tip 1.00–1.40 mm (39–55 thou); fluid pressure 1.8–2.2 bar (26–32 psi); fluid flow 180–280 cc/min; air pressure 1.8–2.2 bar (26–32 psi).
Applications and use cases
Intended uses
- Sealing undercoats and surfacing primers prior to Awlgrip and Awlcraft topcoats.
- Use above and below the waterline on compatible substrates.
- Professional and industrial two-component coating systems for marine and other demanding environments.
Suitable substrates (with the full 545 Epoxy Primer system)
- GRP / Fiberglass (Gelcoat): Clean thoroughly, sand with P150–P220 grade paper.
- Steel: Grit blast to white metal according to SSPC-SP10 / Sa 2½ with a 50–75 µm (2–3 mil) profile.
- Aluminium: Grind with 36-grit disc or blast to bright, clean aluminium, free from grey oxidation; required profile 50–75 µm (2–3 mil).
- Wood: Clean, dry timber sanded with 80–120 grit. For wood, first seal with a light spray coat of 545 Epoxy Primer reduced 40% with T0006, then allow 12–16 h cure.
Environmental and application conditions
- Do not apply to surfaces less than 3°C (5°F) above the dew point.
- Do not apply to surfaces warmer than 41°C (105°F).
- Ambient temperature should be between 13°C (55°F) and 41°C (105°F).
FAQ
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What is the correct mix ratio for 545 Epoxy Primer Converter?
Mix 1 part 545 Epoxy Primer Base (D8001 or D1001) with 1 part 545 Epoxy Primer Converter (D3001) by volume. After mixing to a smooth, homogeneous blend, allow a 15-minute induction time before application.
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Which reducers should I use with the mixed primer?
Use T0031 (5–10%) for brush and roller application, and T0006 (0–25%) for air-atomized spray application.
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How long can I use the mixed 545 Epoxy Primer before it gels?
Pot life is 16 hours at 15–25°C (59–77°F) and 8 hours at 35°C (95°F), at 50% relative humidity.
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When can I recoat over 545 Epoxy Primer?
At 25°C (77°F), recoat compatible primers or topcoats after a minimum of 12 hours and before 24 hours. If more than 24 hours have passed, sanding is required before recoating.
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On which substrates can I use the 545 Epoxy Primer system?
When properly prepared, the system can be used on GRP (fiberglass), steel, aluminium and wood, both above and below the waterline.
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What are the key safety hazards of the Converter?
The Converter is classified as a highly flammable liquid and vapor and may be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. It causes skin and eye irritation, may cause an allergic skin reaction, can cause drowsiness or dizziness, and may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
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What temperatures are recommended for application and curing?
Apply only when ambient temperature is between 13°C and 41°C and the surface is at least 3°C above the dew point. Do not apply to surfaces hotter than 41°C.
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Do I need to sand 545 Epoxy Primer before overcoating?
Sanding is required if the recoat window of 24 hours is exceeded and is recommended at any time to improve adhesion and final appearance.
Section 14 – Transport information
- UN number / ID number: UN1263.
- UN proper shipping name: PAINT.
- Transport hazard class: Class 3 (flammable liquid).
- Packing group: II.
- Environmental hazards: Not classified as hazardous to the environment for transport.
- ADR/RID additional information: Special provisions 640 (C); Tunnel code (D/E).
- IMDG additional information: Emergency schedules F-E, S-E.
- Special precautions for user: Transport in closed, upright and secure containers. Ensure transport personnel know how to respond in case of accident or spillage.
- Transport in bulk according to IMO instruments: Not applicable.
Section 8 – Personal protective measures
The following personal protection guidelines are taken directly from the safety data sheet for 545 Epoxy Primer Converter and apply to professional and industrial use.
General hygiene measures
- Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling this product.
- Wash hands, forearms and face thoroughly after handling and before breaks or leaving the work area.
- Contaminated work clothing should not leave the workplace and must be washed before reuse.
- Ensure eyewash stations and safety showers are close to the work area.
Eye and face protection
- Wear chemical splash goggles complying with an approved standard whenever there is a risk of liquid splashes, mists, gases or dusts.
Hand protection
- Wear chemical-resistant, impervious gloves complying with EN374 or an equivalent standard.
- For prolonged or frequently repeated contact: use protection class 6 gloves (breakthrough time > 480 minutes). Recommended materials: Viton® or nitrile, thickness ≥ 0.38 mm.
- For brief contact: use protection class 2 or higher (breakthrough time > 30 minutes). Recommended material: nitrile, thickness ≥ 0.12 mm.
- Replace gloves regularly and immediately if damaged. Actual breakthrough time can vary by manufacturer and mixture.
Skin and body protection
- Wear protective clothing appropriate to the task and risks, approved by a specialist.
- Where ignition from static electricity is possible, use anti-static protective clothing, including overalls, boots and gloves (refer to EN 1149 for material and design requirements).
- Select suitable footwear and any additional skin protection according to local risk assessment.
Respiratory protection
- Use only with adequate ventilation and explosion-proof extraction where necessary.
- When ventilation is insufficient or exposure limits may be exceeded, wear a respirator conforming to EN140 with an A/P2 filter or better.
- During dry sanding, flame cutting or welding of the dry paint film, hazardous dusts and fumes may be produced. Prefer wet sanding/flatting where possible; if exposure cannot be avoided, use suitable respiratory protective equipment.
Environmental exposure controls
- Check emissions from ventilation and process equipment to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
- Where required, use fume scrubbers, filters or engineering modifications to reduce emissions to acceptable levels.
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