The Fluorothane M-series super-hydrophobic coatings are the most durable available. Fluorothane MW and the newly introduced WX2100 (see www.pr.com/press-release/11668) provide >150 degrees contact angle performance in extreme sun and rain for five to twenty years (see Coating Data). Under heavy rain conditions, Ka band ground stations using Fluorothane M-type coatings report rain attenuation (rain fade) losses of only 0.2 dB compared to 10 dB losses for uncoated systems (Hughes Network Systems). Side by side tests between coated and uncoated DirecTV antennas demonstrate 15-20% margins in signal strength during heavy rain, i.e., when signal from uncoated dish drops out at 45%, the coated dish maintains operation at 60-65%. M-type coatings are also reported to protect against snow and ice accumulation under most conditions (also see Snow Series). Other formulations available for two-part, UV and moisture curing and for both high and low temperature application.
Fluorothane MW is a single-part, air-cured fluoro-urethane alkyd formulated for spray, brush, roll application to marine and ground-based microwave antenna. The coating is rain resistant after 2-6 hours, substantially cures in 24 hours and is fully cured in 5 to 10 days. Surface temperatures should be between 32 and 95 degrees F. One gallon covers 200 to 400 square feet.
US price $95 per quart, $220 per gallon. Bulk pricing available.
Fluorothane GE - Hydrophobic (contact angle > 115 degrees) single-part fluorourethane alkyd coating formulated for spray application to marine, ground-based and aircraft radomes (see Honeywell TNL). The GE coating has a gloss finish that will amber slightly after extended UV exposure but has excellent weather resistance and may be applied over most surfaces. GE substantially cures in 24 hours and is fully cured in 3 to 7 days. One liter covers 100 to 200 square feet.
US price $210 per liter. Bulk pricing available.
