Sanding with Anker Stuy water-based coatings

Achieving a Seamless Finish: The Art of Sanding Interior Elements for Water-Based Coatings

In the world of interior spraying, the quest for a flawless finish on cabinets, furniture and interior elements, is an ongoing endeavour; this is more true when discussing kitchen cupboard doors. When working with Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) and opting for water-based coatings, the paint certainly has a major part to play, however, one crucial step in achieving perfection is sanding. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of sanding in creating a smooth finish with Anker Stuy's Ankocryl Interior system and reducing fibre raise on MDF, with a specific focus on the new Mirka Ligno sanding pads.

Why use water-based coatings instead of solvent-based?

Water-based industrial interior joinery coatings possess a range of key properties that make them highly desirable in various industrial applications. One notable characteristic is their environmentally friendly composition, as these coatings use water as the primary solvent, resulting in lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to traditional solvent-based alternatives. This not only promotes healthier indoor air quality but also aligns with sustainability goals. Despite their eco-conscious formulation, water-based coatings exhibit excellent performance, offering robust durability, resistance to wear, and a smooth, even finish on interior joinery surfaces like cabinets and furniture. The application process is user-friendly, with easy cleanup due to the absence of harsh solvents. Rapid drying times enhance productivity in industrial settings. Additionally, these coatings often showcase superior adhesion, ensuring a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing appearance, making them a go-to choice for those seeking a balance between high-performance coatings and environmentally responsible practices in interior joinery applications.

Choose Ankocryl Interior

Ankocryl Interior water-based wood coatings offer a modern and eco-friendly solution for enhancing and protecting your wooden surfaces. With their low VOC content, these coatings minimise environmental impact and promote healthier indoor air quality. They provide excellent durability, resisting scratches, stains, and fading while retaining the natural beauty of the wood.

The Ankocryl Water-based Interior PU Topcoat line is based on a blend of self-crosslinking acrylic and polyurethane dispersions. This blend has been chosen to allow for the optimum balance of properties such as chemical resistance, scratch resistance as well as resistance to impact and tannin blocking. This is a single-component reactive coating without the downsides of a true 2-pack system, for instance mixing with a
hardener, a limited pot life and flammable material-related storage concerns. Furthermore, the latest available technology gives the best chemical resistance against known aggressive household chemicals such as coffee, blackcurrant cordial, red wine and alcohol on both dark, pastel and white shades.

Why use MDF?

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is a popular choice for kitchen cupboard doors for several reasons. While the suitability of materials may vary based on specific preferences and needs, here are some reasons why MDF is often considered a good choice for kitchen cupboard doors:

Smooth Surface: MDF has a uniform and smooth surface, making it an excellent choice for painted or veneered finishes. Its consistency allows for a clean and polished appearance, which is desirable for kitchen cabinets.

1. Affordability: MDF is generally more cost-effective than solid wood or other high-end materials. This makes it an attractive option for homeowners looking to achieve a sophisticated look on a budget.
2. Versatility: MDF is a versatile material that can be easily cut, shaped, and moulded into various designs. This versatility allows for a wide range of styles and detailing, accommodating different design preferences.
3. Stability: Unlike solid wood, MDF is less prone to warping or cracking due to changes in humidity and temperature. This stability is crucial in kitchen environments where conditions can fluctuate, especially if the kitchen is not climate-controlled.
4. Paintability: MDF has a smooth, dense surface that takes paint exceptionally well. This makes it an ideal choice for kitchen cupboard doors that need to be painted in a specific colour or finish to match the overall kitchen design.
5. Consistent Quality: MDF is manufactured using wood fibres, resin, and wax that are compressed together. This manufacturing process results in a consistent product with predictable properties. This consistency is valuable for achieving a uniform look across all cabinet doors.
6. Eco-Friendly Options: Some MDF products are made with recycled wood fibres, and the manufacturing process can use wood from sustainably managed forests. This allows for eco-friendly options, contributing to responsible sourcing and environmental considerations.
7. Resistance to Cracking and Splitting: MDF is less prone to cracking and splitting compared to solid wood. This durability is particularly important for doors that may experience frequent use, ensuring a longer lifespan for the kitchen cupboards.
8. Weight: MDF is generally lighter than solid wood, making it easier to handle during installation. This can be advantageous for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

While MDF offers numerous advantages, it's essential to note that it also has some limitations, such as vulnerability to water damage. In areas where moisture is a concern, precautions should be taken to protect MDF from prolonged exposure to water. Additionally, the specific application and design goals should be considered when choosing materials for kitchen cupboard doors. Some types of MDF may do this job better than others, however whatever MDF you choose, rest assured that Ankocryl Interior helps to protect high-moisture areas better than most available paints.

The Role of Sanding in Smoothing Surfaces

Sanding is a critical step in the surface preparation process before applying any coating. When it comes to MDF and water-based coatings, the goal is to create a smooth and even canvas that enhances the final appearance. Sanding helps to eliminate imperfections, irregularities, and any raised fibres on the surface, ensuring that the coating adheres uniformly. Just try it out for yourself. Spray a 200um film on MDF and then sand with different grits, different durations and sanding pads from different companies. Spray on the topcoat and asses the finish for yourself.

Mirka Ligno

We have done comprehensive testing already. We have found that Mirka Ligno sanding pads stand out as the superior sanding pads for sanding Anker Stuy Ankocryl, as a trusted tool in the arsenal of professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. These pads are designed with precision and efficiency in mind, offering a range of grit options to cater to different stages of the sanding process.

1. Gentle Abrasion (Lower Grits): Begin with lower grit Mirka Ligno sanding pads to address any prominent imperfections on the MDF surface. These pads are adept at swiftly removing material while ensuring a consistent sanding pattern.
2. Refinement (Medium Grits): Progress to medium grits for refining the surface further. Mirka Ligno sanding pads provide a balanced abrasion that prepares the MDF for the subsequent stages of coating application.
3. Finishing Touch (Higher Grits): The higher grit Mirka Ligno sanding pads offer a fine touch, perfect for achieving a silky-smooth finish on the MDF surface. This step is crucial to minimize fibre raise, especially when dealing with water-based coatings

Benefits of Mirka Ligno Sanding Pads:

• Consistent Abrasion:Mirka Ligno sanding pads are engineered for uniform abrasion, ensuring that each stroke contributes to a smooth surface without compromising material integrity.
• Durable Design:The durability of these sanding pads allows for extended use, making them a cost-effective choice for professionals who require reliability and longevity in their tools.
• Reduced Fiber Raise:Mirka Ligno sanding pads excel in minimizing fibre raise on MDF surfaces, a key consideration when working with water-based coatings. This attribute contributes to the creation of a flawless finish.

Mirka Guide Coat

Another tool that all sprayers should be aware of is Mirka Guide Coat. Mirka Guide Coat is a specially formulated coating designed to assist in the sanding process by highlighting imperfections on the surface. Essentially, it acts as a guide for painters, revealing highs and lows in the substrate, making it easier to identify areas that require further attention. This black powder is easily and quickly applied to all surfaces that are to be sanded, highlighting uneven surfaces and offering a guide to the full sanding process.

The Magic Behind Mirka Guide Coat:

1. Contrast Enhancement:Mirka Guide Coat is typically applied as a thin layer over the primed or painted surface. The coat has a contrasting colour to the substrate, creating a visual distinction between the highs and lows. This high-contrast effect allows painters to identify imperfections with ease, ensuring a more accurate and efficient sanding process.
2. Time and Cost Efficiency:By pinpointing imperfections early in the process, Mirka Guide Coat helps painters save valuable time and resources. Identifying and correcting issues before moving on to subsequent layers of paint or clear coat prevents the need for extensive rework later on. This not only improves efficiency but also contributes to cost savings in terms of materials and labour.
3. Versatility:Mirka Guide Coat is versatile and compatible with various substrates, including metal, plastic, and fibreglass. Whether you're working on automotive panels, furniture, or industrial machinery, this guide coat proves to be a valuable ally in achieving a flawless finish.
4. Ease of Application:Applying Mirka Guide Coat is a straightforward process. It can be sprayed or brushed onto the surface, and once dry, it forms a consistent and easily visible layer. This simplicity in application makes it accessible to both seasoned professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
5. Compatibility with Sanding Tools:Mirka Guide Coat works seamlessly with sanding tools, such as orbital sanders and hand sanding blocks. The contrast-enhancing properties remain intact during the sanding process, providing continuous guidance until the surface is perfected.

System Specification for spraying MDF

You now have all the knowledge necessary for sanding MDF when using Anker Stuy Ankocryl Interior Coatings Interested in our system specifications? We have these readily available online, simply CLICK HERE.

Conclusion:

Sanding plays a pivotal role in achieving a seamless finish on interior elements like kitchen doors and cabinets, especially when working with MDF and water-based coatings. This is a multi-faceted process that involves careful substrate selection, the application of high-quality water-based coatings, and precision sanding techniques. With the Ankocryl Interior system, Mirka sanding pads, and Mirka Guide Coat, professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike can elevate their craftsmanship, achieving a level of perfection that meets the highest standards in the world of interior spraying. If you have more questions on your finishing process, then please get in touch with our team.