Insight: a guide from CCS for avoiding orange peel

Established in 1992, the Dutch company, CCS Coating Consultants for Superyachts have 25 years of expertise in superyacht paint solutions. Here, the company gives an insight into how to recognise and avoid 'orange peel' on your yacht's coating surface. 

What is orange peel?

Orange peel is a coating characteristic resulting in a surface appearance like the skin of an orange. 

Besides the measurements of gloss, the visual appearance of a superyacht is dictated by the uniformity of the surface and the reflected image effects. The reflected image effects are determined by contrast (Haze) and Distinction of Image (DOI). The surface effects (or surface texture) are defined as waviness and depending on the observing distance and image forming the effects appear visually different. 

 .       Small structures                                                                          Larger structures

Observing distance

The visibility of the structures depends on the observing distance. The greater the distance, the smaller undesirable objects will appear. Extremes of gloss coating surface profile wavelengths are in the range of 0.1mm – 10 mm and are most noticeable at a distance of approximately 3 metres. Fine structures in a range of 0.1 to 1mm can only be recognized at a close distance. 

The closer the range between the surface and the observer, the greater the visual impact of orange peel.    

Potential causes of orange peel:

Orange peel is typically the result of: 

• an improper painting technique
• painting on hot surfaces
• the quick evaporation of paint thinner 
• incorrect spray gun setup (e.g, low air pressure or incorrect nozzle) 
• spraying the paint at an angle other than perpendicular
• or applying excessive paint.

How can you solve orange peel?

• Sand and paint again (same instructions as for "Gelcoat" and finishing paints)
• Sand and polish
• Choose appropriate thinner, and respect drying times before re-coating
• Bring top coat to recommended viscosity
• Use adequate spray procedures/times and techniques
• Avoid high temperatures

From subjectivity to objectivity

To obtain reliable measurement results instead of a subjective evaluation, CCS measures orange peel with a wave scan. In the next article, we will describe the working method and advantages of the wave scan.

To hear more about CCS and the services they offer, or to make an enquiry, head to their website, or use the contact details below.