Paint technologists and technicians use their knowledge of the physical sciences, such as chemistry, physics and mathematics to address complicated industrial problems concerning paint and its use.
The work of paint technologists can be divided into three categories:
Analysis: these technologists, working in the analytical field, use their in-depth knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of the numerous colour pigments, solvents and binding agents available. They also need to be familiar with the equipment used in the manufacturing of paint. These technicians also have to be able to formulate and manufacture various synthetic resins that constitute the binder of paint.
Testing: these paint technologists test paints for various qualities. Before technicians can compose formulae for certain types of paint, they have to have comprehensive experience and background knowledge of the properties of the different elements that are used in the formula. Formulation forms an important part of a paint technologist’s work and is closely related to finding and testing substitute elements, especially when the prices of the existing elements are rising or when certain elements become unavailable and have to be substituted.
Testing done by the SABS and other standards organisations, assures the public of the reliability and quality of the paint. A great variety of tests are carried out on paints, such as tests on the application, drying, resistance to water, and its ability to prevent decay and corrosion of the substrate.
Research: these technologists research existing products for improvements and develop new ones for the benefit of both consumers and the paint manufacturer. Since this is a specialised field, paint technicians with experience and knowledge of the subject, are the ones who move into research.
School Subjects:
Compulsory subjects: Mathematics and Physical Science
Students must pass a National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree or diploma course
In addition, each university has its own Admission Points Score (APS) requirements for each course.
Degree: An appropriate BSc degree, or BEng (Chemical) with Physics, Chemistry or Mathematics as major subjects. This degree takes 3 years to complete and is offered at all South African universities. Graduates with a BSc degree with Chemistry as a major subject or a BEng (Chemical Engineering) with Chemistry on third-year level, can improve their qualifications by doing the BSc(Hons)(Polymer Science), which is offered at the University of Stellenbosch.
Diploma: The N.Dip. Polymer Technology which includes a course in Paint Technology, is offered at NMMU.
S A Paint Manufacturers Association and S A Paint Industry Training Institute
No. 16 Nicol Road, Cnr Arbroath Street
Bedfordview, Johannesburg.
Entrance from Arbroath Street
Tel: (011) 615-1195
www.sapma.org.za
Institute of Polymer Technology
Pretoria University of Technology
Private Bag X680
Pretoria, 0001
Tel: (012) 841-4972
Institute of Polymer Science
University of Stellenbosch, 7600
Tel: (021) 808-3172
http://academic.sun.ac.za/polymer/
Plastics Federation of SA
18 Gazelle Avenue
Corporate South Park
Old Pretoria Road
Midrand
Tel: (011) 314-4021 / (011) 314-3764
www.plasticsinfo.co.za
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