• Federal Highway Administration >
• Publications >
• Research Publications >
• 98084 >
• Paintinga.Cfm
• FHWA Field Manual for Bridge Painting Inspection

The information in this manual does not necessarily represent current practice. It is on this site for archival reference purposes only.

FHWA Field Manual for Bridge Painting Inspection

Painting

Project #___________________

Date:_____________

Inspector:__________________

Environmental Conditions Check the following prior to beginning painting operations and at 4-hour intervals:

• Temperature--------Specification limits______________ Measured_______

• Relative humidity-------Specification limit_________ Measured________

• Dew Point_____

• Steel surface temperature (should be min. of 3°C (5°F ) above dew point) _____

• Excessive wind not present.___

Application

For spray applications:

• Pot pressure set to provide adequate paint supply to spray gun.___
• Atomization pressure set just high enough to atomize paint . ___
• Proper technique used. ___

For brush, roller, or mitt applications:

• Verify material compatibility. ___
• Proper technique used. ___

For all methods:

• Immediate repair of unsightly runs, drip, and pinholes. ___
• Check wet film thickness. Verify acceptability. ___
• Check dry film thickness. Verify acceptability. ___

Back to the Manual

U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
Research, Development, and Technology
Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center
6300 Georgetown Pike
McLean, Virginia 22101-2296