One of the many ways that you can customize your project is by layering multiple colors of Cerakote to form custom patterns and designs. When layering Cerakote colors, it’s important to understand how to do this correctly to avoid coating delamination, also known as Inter-Coat Delamination.
WHAT IS INTER-COAT DELAMINATION
Inter-coat delamination is when the outermost layer of coating does not chemically bond to its previous coating layer(s).
Stencil being removed and coating delaminating from the base layer.
METHODS FOR ACHIEVING CHEMICAL ADHESION
WET-ON-WET
This is done by applying subsequent coating layers to the base coat finish before it dries/cures or becomes tack-free. This method is used primarily in creating base fades or layering colors for laser imaging. Applying coating layers using the wet-on-wet method will optimize inter-coat adhesion.FLASH CURE
After a base coat finish is applied and ambiently flashed, part(s) are heated between 150° F-180° F (65° C - 82° C) for 10-30 minutes. This allows the coating to become tack-free/dry before layering additional colors. The flash-cure method is used primarily for customization when vinyl stencils need to be placed on the parts without damaging the coating.DELAMINATION VARIABLES
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FLASH CURING
The 1st cause of delamination is flash curing beyond the tack-free time. When flash curing, you have an adhesion window that allows additional coating layers to crosslink/chemically bond to each other. As the coating continues to cure past the tack-free point, the adhesion window will begin to close, and the base coat layer(s) will become chemically resistant to subsequent layers.PRO TIPS
- Checking for tack-free: Once parts are coated and placed into an oven for Flash Curing, set a timer for 10 minutes. Following the 10-minute Flash Cure, check the part for tack-free by using your finger and lightly pressing the surface in an inconspicuous spot. If the part is still tacky and leaves an imprint, continue to check every 5 minutes until no imprint is left behind.
- The substrate type, density, and oven temperature will dictate the tack-free time. For composites or plastics, it may take between 10 – 15 minutes to become tack-free while metals may take between 15 and 30 minutes.
- When Flash curing dense metal parts, such as a weight-lifting barbell, Cerakote will continue to cook/cure for several minutes after being removed from the oven. It’s best practice to remove these parts from the oven just before they are tack-free. This will allow the coating to continue to flash cure while it cools and prevent over-flashing.
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HIGH-GLOSS COLORS
The 2nd cause of delamination is layering over high-gloss colors. The smooth finish and composition can prevent inter-coat adhesion from taking place. When layering, it’s best practice to choose a color with a lower gloss rating (flat, matte, or satin finish). If a high gloss color is required as a base coat finish, it’s recommended to lightly etch blast between 10 and 20 PSI to promote mechanical adhesion between each layer. -
SURFACE CONTAMINATION
The 3rd cause is surface contamination. If any contaminants such as oil, dust, or moisture contact the coated surface, it can lead to poor inter-coat adhesion with subsequent coating layers. Remember to wear gloves throughout the entire coating process and make sure your work environment is clean, well-ventilated, and temperature-controlled (68° F – 74° F with 20% to 50% humidity).PRO TIP
- If gloves are not used while transferring vinyl stencils, be sure to clean the surface with a wax & grease remover before applying additional coating layers.
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REMOVING VINYL STENCILS:
Lastly, After the flash curing process, allow the parts to reach room temperature before removing the stencils. This will allow the coating to cool/set and prevent underlying or surrounding layers from delaminating. When removing vinyl stencils, it is recommended to peel in a backward direction (against the surface) and not in an upward direction (perpendicular to the surface). This will prevent underlying coating layers from lifting if the coating has not completely cooled.
Proper removal process.
Improper removal process.PRO TIP
- Refer to the product Technical Data Sheet to view if the coating you are using requires an extended flash cure time.
CERAKOTE COLORS NOT TO PEEL HOT
For any questions or concerns with standard or alternative methods, please contact us at:866-774-7628 or technicalsupport@cerakote.com.
Article Published: August 20, 2025