Cortec VpCI® 389 Water Based Removable Coating 5 & 55 Gallon Drums (19ltr & 208ltr Drums)
Cortec VpCI® 389 Water Based Removable Coating 5 & 55 Gallon Drums (19ltr & 208ltr Drums)
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Cortec VpCI® 389 is a high performance, temporary removable coating. This rust inhibitor exhibits excellent UV resistance as well as multi metal protection.
Works well when used with both HVLP and airless spray gun applications.

Cortec VpCI 389 is a water based removable coating, perfect for use in harsh environments including outdoor and unsheltered areas.
VpCI 389 is both fact drying and provides multi metal protection, it also exhibits impressive UV resistance and can be matched to a variety of bespoke colours if required.
Application of VpCI 389
When preparing a surface ensure it is free from grease, oil, dirt & fingerprints. Also any corrosion inhibitors that are not Cortec® products. Inspect the surface for any additional contaminants that may affect the application and adhesion.
When applying to a bare metal surface use the NACE code #3/SSPC-SP6 specification ensuring you test the system prior to application and adhesion. Alternatively consult a Cortec technical expert.
NB: Please ensure the dew point is more than 5°F/2°C less than the air temperature being used for application. Power agitate to a uniform consistency using a hand held drill mixer or other similar method. You can also apply VpCI® 389 using a spray gun, roller brush or dip method.
Recommended equipment configurations
HVLP Spray Gun
- Tip 0.02″ – 0.11″ (0.5 to 2.8mm) depending upon the pressure & viscosity levels.
- Air pressure @ 45 to 55 PSI.
- Fluid pressure @ 10 PSI.
- Ensure fluid hose is ⅜” (0.95 cm internal dimensions) with a max length of 50ft/15.2mtr You can use a narrower ¼”/0.64 cm fluid hose but the pressure must be adjusted to ensure correct flow. The pot should feature dual regulation and be kept at an even elevation to the spray gun.
Airless Spray Gun
- Tip 0.015″ to 0.035″ (0.38 to 0.89mm) depending upon the pressure & viscosity levels.
- Pressure @ 1800 to 2500 PSI.
- Ensure air hose is ⅜” (0.95 cm internal dimensions) with a max length of 100ft/30.5mtr You can use a narrower ¼”/0.64 cm ID air hose with a whip end section can be used for easy application.
Cleanup
Tools & application equipment should be cleaned immediately after use with water when the coating is still moist. When removing VpCI 389 use Cortec’s VpCI 414 cleaner degreaser coating.
Packaging
VpCI 389 is available in either 5 gallon (19 ltr) or 55 gallon (208 ltr) drums. It has a shelf life of 2 years.
Take a look here for more information on Vapour Phase Corrosion Inhibitors.
Product Specifications (.PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
• What exactly is Cortec VpCI-389, and what makes it different from other protective coatings?
Cortec VpCI-389 is a unique, water-based, fast-drying removable coating designed to provide exceptional corrosion protection for metals, particularly in harsh, outdoor, and unsheltered conditions. What sets it apart is its advanced Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor (VpCI) technology, which offers multi-metal protection and excellent UV resistance, all within an environmentally conscious, water-based formulation that can be easily removed when no longer needed.
• How does Cortec VpCI-389 actually protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion?
This innovative coating works by forming a protective, slightly tacky film on the metal surface. Crucially, its VpCI molecules vaporize and create a self-replenishing protective layer in inaccessible areas like crevices and voids, effectively blocking oxygen, moisture, and other corrosive elements from reaching the metal. This ensures comprehensive protection, even where traditional coatings might fail.
• Is Cortec VpCI-389 considered an environmentally friendly corrosion protection solution?
Absolutely. Cortec VpCI-389 is formulated as a water-based product, making it a much more environmentally responsible alternative to traditional oil-based inhibitors. It's designed with a low VOC content and can be easily removed with water-based alkaline cleaners, minimizing environmental impact.
• What types of metals can I confidently use Cortec VpCI-389 on for protection?
Cortec VpCI-389 offers multi-metal protection, making it suitable for a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including various types of steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and more. This versatility makes it a valuable asset for diverse industrial applications.
• How long can I expect Cortec VpCI-389 to provide corrosion protection?
Cortec VpCI-389 is engineered for both long-term indoor storage, offering protection for up to 5 years, and for short to medium-term outdoor, unsheltered exposure, where it can protect for 6 to 24 months. This impressive longevity is ideal for various storage and transit scenarios.
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Applying Cortec VpCI-389: A Practical Guide
• What's the ideal method for applying Cortec VpCI-389 to ensure maximum effectiveness?
Cortec VpCI-389 can be applied using conventional methods such as spraying (HVLP, conventional, or airless), rolling, brushing, or dipping. The best method often depends on the size and geometry of the part being protected, but thorough, even coverage is always the goal.
• Do I need to prepare the surface before applying Cortec VpCI-389, and if so, how?
Yes, proper surface preparation is crucial for optimal performance. The surface must be clean and free from grease, oil, dirt, fingerprints, drawing compounds, and any other contaminants that could hinder adhesion. For bare metal applications, it's recommended to meet NACE #3/SSPC-SP6 standards, and it's always a good idea to test adhesion on a small area first.
• Can Cortec VpCI-389 be diluted with water, and what are the recommended dilution ratios?
Yes, Cortec VpCI-389 can be diluted with water to adjust its viscosity for easier application, especially for spraying. Typical dilution ranges from 1 part Cortec VpCI-389 to 1 part water, up to 1 part VpCI-389 to 8 parts water, depending on the desired film thickness and application method.
• What kind of film does Cortec VpCI-389 leave on the metal surface once it dries?
Upon drying, Cortec VpCI-389 leaves behind a dry, slightly tacky film. This film is crucial for its protective properties and provides a visible indication of its presence on the metal.
• How quickly does Cortec VpCI-389 dry after application?
Cortec VpCI-389 is designed to be fast-drying. It typically becomes dry to the touch within 10-60 minutes and dry to handle within 20-60 minutes, with a full cure time of 3-7 days. This quick drying time is beneficial for efficient industrial processes.
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• Is it possible to custom match the color of Cortec VpCI-389?
Yes, a great feature of Cortec VpCI-389 is its ability to be matched to some custom colors if needed, offering flexibility for aesthetic or identification purposes while still providing robust corrosion protection.
Practical Applications & Scenarios
• I need to protect equipment being stored outdoors for an extended period; is Cortec VpCI-389 suitable for unsheltered outdoor exposure?
Absolutely! Cortec VpCI-389 is specifically designed for harsh, outdoor, unsheltered applications. It provides robust corrosion protection even in demanding environments, making it an excellent choice for long-term outdoor storage of equipment.
• Can Cortec VpCI-389 be used to protect metal parts during overseas shipping?
Yes, it's a very common and effective application. The superior salt spray resistance of Cortec VpCI-389 makes it ideal for protecting valuable metal parts and machinery during transit, especially in corrosive marine environments encountered during overseas shipping.
• Is Cortec VpCI-389 effective in environments with high humidity or salt spray?
Cortec VpCI-389 exhibits excellent UV resistance and superior salt spray resistance, making it highly effective in high humidity environments and against the corrosive effects of salt spray, as evidenced by its performance in tests like ASTM B117 (salt spray).
• Can this coating be easily removed when the protection is no longer needed?
Yes, that's one of its key advantages! Cortec VpCI-389 is designed as a removable coating. It can be easily removed with alkaline cleaners, such as Cortec VpCI-414, simplifying post-protection processes.
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• How does Cortec VpCI-389 perform in corrosive industrial atmospheres?
The advanced VpCI technology in Cortec VpCI-389 ensures effective protection against corrosive industrial atmospheres, including those with sulfur dioxide (SO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which are often found in demanding industrial settings.
• Can Cortec VpCI-389 be used for protecting spare parts in inventory?
Definitely! Cortec VpCI-389 is an excellent choice for protecting spare parts during storage, ensuring they remain in pristine condition and are ready for use when needed, even for extended periods.
• Is Cortec VpCI-389 suitable for protecting machinery during maintenance or repair downtimes?
Yes, it is perfectly suited for such applications. During maintenance or repair, machinery components can be vulnerable to corrosion. Applying Cortec VpCI-389 offers crucial temporary protection, preventing rust while the equipment is inactive.
Technical Specifications & Performance
• What is the recommended film thickness for Cortec VpCI-389 to achieve optimal protection?
The recommended dry film thickness (DFT) for Cortec VpCI-389 is typically between 1.0-2.0 mils (25-50 microns) to provide the desired level of corrosion protection.
• Does Cortec VpCI-389 offer good UV resistance, especially for outdoor applications?
Yes, Cortec VpCI-389 boasts excellent UV resistance, which is critical for maintaining its protective integrity and aesthetic appeal when exposed to sunlight in outdoor conditions.
• What is the approximate theoretical spread rate of Cortec VpCI-389?
The theoretical spread rate for Cortec VpCI-389 is approximately 298 square feet per gallon at 1.0 mil DFT (7.3 sq.m/L at 25 µm), which helps in calculating coverage for different projects.
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• What are the general viscosity characteristics of Cortec VpCI-389?
Cortec VpCI-389 typically has a viscosity ranging from 5,500 to 10,000 Centipoise (cP), which is a key factor in its application properties and how it can be thinned with water.
• What is the flash point of Cortec VpCI-389?
Cortec VpCI-389 has a flash point of 180°F (82°C), indicating its relative safety compared to more volatile, solvent-based coatings.
• Does Cortec VpCI-389 meet any specific industry standards or tests?
Yes, Cortec VpCI-389 is tested for performance according to various standards, including ASTM B117 (salt spray) and ASTM D1748 (humidity), demonstrating its robust corrosion protection capabilities. It also meets RoHS requirements.
Purchasing, Storage & Safety
• What packaging sizes is Cortec VpCI-389 available in through Valdamark Direct?
Valdamark Direct offers Cortec VpCI-389 in convenient 19-liter (5-gallon) pails and larger 208-liter (55-gallon) drums, providing options for both smaller and larger industrial requirements.
• What are the recommended storage conditions for Cortec VpCI-389 to ensure its shelf life?
To maintain best product performance and its 2-year shelf life, Cortec VpCI-389 should be stored in its original packaging, indoors, and out of direct sunlight, at temperatures between 40-100°F (4-38°C). It is important not to allow the product to freeze.
• Is Cortec VpCI-389 safe for handling by personnel?
Cortec VpCI-389 is generally considered safe for handling. As a water-based product with low VOCs and no hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), it offers a safer alternative to many conventional coatings. However, it's always essential to consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety precautions and recommended personal protective equipment.
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• What should I use to clean up application tools after using Cortec VpCI-389?
Cleanup is straightforward; application tools and equipment should be cleaned immediately after use with water while the coating is still wet. This easy cleanup is another advantage of its water-based formulation.
• Can Cortec VpCI-389 be used on rusted surfaces, or is it only for bare metal?
While optimal performance is achieved on clean, prepared bare metal, it's primarily a protective coating. For surfaces with existing rust, it's best to remove the rust first for the best possible outcome. Cortec offers other products, like CorrVerter, that are designed to treat rusted surfaces before applying a protective coating.
• How does Cortec VpCI-389 contribute to cost savings in industrial operations?
By providing long-term, multi-metal corrosion protection, Cortec VpCI-389 significantly extends the lifespan of machinery and components, reduces the need for expensive repairs or replacements, and minimizes downtime. Its easy application and removal also streamline processes, leading to overall operational efficiency and substantial cost savings.
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