For a number of years now, one of the main topics of conversation in aircraft painting has been the effect of REACH and how end users will have to adapt to ensure the continuity of business. In addition to developing further chromate-free coating solutions, Mankiewicz has taken up this issue and is committed to making the changeover as pleasant as possible for its customers - for example by gaining authorization for the continued use of the CELEROL WashPrimer.
REACH aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment through the better and earlier identification of the intrinsic properties of chemical substances. This is done by the four processes of REACH, namely the registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals. Mention REACH and straight away there is concern about what can and cannot be used after 21st of January 2019.
To meet these requirements, Mankiewicz has started developing and optimizing chromate-free coating solutions in good time and can now offer a wide range of REACH conform products for different needs. Andreas Ossenkopf, Head of Aviation at Mankiewicz, explains: ‘’Mankiewicz offers tried and tested systems that are completely free of chromates (approved by major OEMs) and these are being adopted by a number of airlines and OEMs”. Additionally, Mankiewicz has taken the view that it is not only important to ensure the relevant aspects of the REACH legislation are met, but also that their customers are able to secure the continuity and sustainability of their businesses the easiest way possible, while complying with all the necessary timelines within the legislation. ”For Mankiewicz, it is ultimately about supporting our customers and giving them choices to use the systems they prefer, rather than trying to force them into decisions they may not feel sure about”, Ossenkopf goes on. ‘’Mankiewicz has always been a customer-centric company and for us it is important to ensure that customers can continue with preferred working practices, where they deem them most suitable.” This is why Mankiewicz decided to authorize the continued use of CELEROL WashPrimer (sometimes referred to as Etch primers) after January 2019. The continued supply of CELEROL WashPrimer will help customers with their sustainability plans, letting them decide when and if they move to other systems at their own pace. Mankiewicz is not trying to make that decision for them, but can offer help and guidance where needed. Ossenkopf considers it very important not to leave his customers without support and to ensure clean transition processes.
Wash primers have a number of advantages for both the end user (MRO) and the airline. For the MRO, apart from active corrosion protection, its easy use and application are important factors that make the product so popular: it is quick drying, can be applied with a spray gun, and allows for a “dry” process. Moreover, the CELEROL WashPrimer has a track record of being an intrinsic part of robust paint systems and its continued use means that contracts can be fulfilled going forward. The product also scores on environmental grounds: It has a reduced chromate content compared to chromated epoxy systems and complies with the EU solvent emission directive.
Although the latter is also an important aspect for the airlines, the product has further advantages for an airline: Its continued use means that no costly changes to aircraft engineering orders and drawings are necessary. The low weight and the fact that it is approved brings much peace of mind for this robust and popular system.
Taking all these facts into consideration, Mankiewicz quickly came to the conclusion to gain authorization for the continued use of CELEROL WashPrimer. The time it takes in the aviation industry to change specifications, drawings and processes are comparatively long and so are product development and qualification cycles. Even though there was a transitional period, it is clear they still see a need for these products. Nevertheless, Mankiewicz does not stop there and is constantly developing further chromate-free products.
About Mankiewicz
Mankiewicz is one of Germany's traditional paint manufacturers, leads the field in the production of both solvent-based and water-dilutable high-tech coating systems for industrial series production. Today, Mankiewicz supplies its high-quality paint products in various markets such as machine construction, capital goods, automotive, aviation, railways, medical technology and yachts. It is of great importance to us that our products fulfil the demands of the highest quality standards. Worldwide more than 1,400 staff members are committed to the realization of “Coating Concepts of the Future” in accordance with the latest quality standards. The high quality of products and processes is guaranteed by a quality management system that was established many years ago. Mankiewicz is certified according to ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, EN9100, ISO 14001 and ISO 50001.
