Paint consumption calculator

Understanding paint consumption calculations

The amount of paint needed can be calculated using three crucial pieces of information, the percentage of solids content per volume, the desired coating thickness in µm and the area to be painted in m²/liter.

With this data, our calculator can apply the following formula to arrive at the amount of paint needed. Although bear in mind that the method of application can change the volume needed, due to paint waste.

Volume solids (VS)

To work out the volume solid, you divide the dry film thickness by the wet film thickness and times it by 100. This returns the volume solid as a percentage. The formula is expressed as:

DFT x 100 / WFT = VS

So if you have a wet film thickness of 100 µm that leaves dry film of 50 µm after the solvent evaporates, it would look like:

50 x 100 / 100 = 50%

Wet film thickness (WTF)

To achieve a dry film thickness (DFT) of 50 µm using a paint with a volume solid (VS) of 50% we would calculate the following:

100 x DFT / VS = WFT

Which would look like:

100 x 50/50 = 100

Dry film thickness (DFT)

You can use the same calculation in reverse to determine the dry film thickness.

WFT x VS / 100 = DFT

Which, using the same numbers, would be:

100 x 50/100 = 50

Protective coatings and paint consumption

When it comes to protective coatings, it’s not just a case of making sure surfaces have been painted or covered, the thickness of the coating is important too. A coating can reduce the degradation of the material it is covering, helping it last longer and stay stronger. This is important for any contractor or manufacturer trying to create a lasting coating but in areas like offshore maintenance, it can be particularly essential.

The importance of accurately predicting paint volume

For a protective coating to work properly, it needs to be applied adequately to complete its function. The minimum amount of wet paint needed to achieve the desired dry film thickness is imperative to the integrity of the job.

Paint testing solutions with Industrial Physics

Ensuring that the paint or protective coating you choose is fit for the task is essential, whether you’re looking to protect metals from rust or packaging from smudging. At Industrial Physics we have a broad range of expertise covering paints, inks and coatings and we’re always happy to help you find the testing machines and solutions to ensure your QA process is solid. Find out more about our paint testing solutions here!