Pilot II

Jotun Pilot II Overview

Jotun Pilot II is a single-component, alkyd-based topcoat renowned for its ease of application and glossy finish. Designed for both exterior and interior use, it offers good weather resistance and aesthetic appeal. Its compatibility with various substrates and primers makes it a versatile choice for maintenance and new construction projects.

Key Product Features

• Single-Component Alkyd - Simplifies application without the need for mixing.
• Glossy Finish - Provides an attractive, high-gloss appearance.
• Versatile Application - Suitable for brush, roller, or spray methods.
• Good Flexibility - Adapts to substrate movements without cracking.
• Gloss Retention - Maintains appearance over time under moderate exposure conditions.
• Good Chemical Resistance - Withstands exposure to mild chemicals and environmental factors.

The table below compares Pilot II to alternative but comparable products.

Suitable Uses and Applications

Jotun Pilot II can be used on a variety of substrates

• Properly prepared steel
• Wood
• Glass-reinforced plastic (GRP)

Pilot II is also suitable for a number of different applications

• Marine Environments - Suitable for above-water areas such as hull sides and superstructures.
• Industrial Structures - Applicable to steel frameworks, machinery, and equipment.
• Commercial Buildings - Ideal for doors, windows, and trim requiring a durable, glossy finish.

Basic Application Guide

For detailed substrate specific instructions on how to apply Pilot II please see our application guide here

Step 1 - Surface Preparation

• Ensure all surfaces are clean, dry, and free from contaminants.
• For steel substrates, remove rust and loose material; priming with Vinyguard Silvergrey 88 or Alkyd Primer is essential.
• For wood and GRP, sand to a smooth finish and apply a suitable primer such as Vinyguard Silvergrey 88 or Alkyd Primer

Step 2 - Thinning

• Thinning is not normally required.
• If necessary, use Jotun Thinner No. 2 or SML Alkyd Thinner, adhering to local VOC regulations.

Step 3 - Application Conditions and Methods

• Temperature - Apply when ambient and surface temperatures are between 5°C and 30°C.
• Humidity - Ensure relative humidity is below 85% to promote proper curing.
• Brush and Roller can be used
• Conventional Air Spray - Recommended for achieving a uniform finish.
• Airless Spray - Can be used for larger areas where speed of application is the prime consideration

Step 4 - Drying and Curing

• Touch Dry - Approximately 5 hours at 23°C.
• Dry to Handle - Approximately 14 hours at 23°C.
• Full Cure - Approximately 7 days at 23°C.

Step 5 - Cleanup

• Clean tools and equipment immediately after use with Jotun Thinner No. 2 or SML Alkyd Thinner.

Jotun Pilot II Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The FAQ's below are for general guidance only.  For specific questions, please refer to the application guides on our product pages, or give us call and we will answer any questions that you have.

Q. What substrates can Jotun Pilot II be applied to?

A. Jotun Pilot II is suitable for properly prepared steel, wood, and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) surfaces over a suitable primer. It provides excellent adhesion when applied over a compatible primer, ensuring long-lasting protection and a durable finish in both industrial and marine environments.

Q. Is a primer necessary before applying Jotun Pilot II?

A. Yes, using a suitable primer is recommended to enhance adhesion and improve corrosion resistance. For steel and wood surfaces, primers like Jotun Vinyguard Silvergrey 88 or Jotun Alkyd Primer are commonly used. for GRP use Jotun Vinyguard Silvergrey 88 as a primer

Q. How long does Jotun Pilot II take to dry?

A. At 23°C, Pilot II is touch dry in approximately 5 hours and can be handled after about 14 hours. The coating fully cures in approximately 7 days

Q. Can Jotun Pilot II be applied over existing paint?

A. Yes, Pilot II can be applied over existing, well-adhered coatings, but proper surface preparation is essential. The existing surface should be clean, dry, and lightly abraded to ensure good adhesion

Q. What application methods are suitable for Jotun Pilot II?

A. Jotun Pilot II can be applied using brush, roller, conventional spray, or airless spray. For speed of application airless spray is recommended for large areas

Q. How should the surface be prepared before application?

A. All surfaces must be clean, dry, and free from oil, grease, dust, and rust. Steel surfaces should be mechanically cleaned or sandblasted, while wood and GRP should be lightly sanded to promote adhesion. A suitable primer should always be used for best results.

Q. Is thinning required for Jotun Pilot II?

A. Thinning is not usually necessary, but for spray applications, a small amount of Jotun Thinner No. 2 or SML Alkyd Thinner can be used if needed. Over-thinning should be avoided as it can reduce opacity and impact the finish quality.

Q. What is the coverage rate of Jotun Pilot II?

A. The theoretical spreading rate is approximately 10 m² per litre at the recommended dry film thickness (DFT). Actual coverage may vary depending on surface roughness, porosity, and application method.

Q. Can Jotun Pilot II be used in marine environments?

A. Yes, Pilot II is commonly used in marine applications, particularly for above-water areas such as hulls, superstructures, and railings. It provides good durability and water resistance, but it is not suitable for below-the-waterline applications.

Q. How should tools and equipment be cleaned after use?

A. Tools and equipment should be cleaned immediately after application using Jotun Thinner No. 2 or SML Alkyd Thinner.

Q. How durable is Jotun Pilot II in industrial environments?

A. Jotun Pilot II provides good durability and moderate resistance to abrasion, weathering, and chemicals. While it is suitable for general industrial use, more aggressive environments may require a two-component polyurethane or epoxy topcoat for extended longevity.

Q. How long should I wait before exposing the coating to full service conditions?

A. Jotun Pilot II reaches full cure after approximately 7 days at 23°C.

Q. Is Jotun Pilot II resistant to UV exposure?

A. Jotun Pilot II provides moderate UV resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use in mild to moderate climates. However, in high-exposure environments, a polyurethane coating such as Jotun Hardtop AX may provide better long-term gloss and colour retention.

Q. Is Jotun Pilot II environmentally friendly?

A. Jotun Pilot II is a single-component, alkyd-based coating, meaning it contains higher VOC levels compared to waterborne alternatives.