Red Seal Automotive Refinishing Technician Practice Exam

What are common causes of orange peel in painted surfaces?

1. Using a low-quality paint

2. Improper spray technique, wrong thinner, or excessive application thickness

3. Applying paint in high humidity

4. Not using a primer

The correct answer is: Improper spray technique, wrong thinner, or excessive application thickness

Orange peel is a textured defect that can occur in painted surfaces, often resembling the surface of an orange. The primary causes of this issue usually stem from the application process of the paint. When considering improper spray technique, using the wrong thinner, or applying excessive thickness of paint, these factors significantly affect how the paint atomizes and adheres to the surface. When spray painting, if the technique is not executed correctly—such as holding the spray gun too far away from the surface or moving it too quickly—the paint may not have the chance to properly level out before drying. If the wrong thinner is used, it may dilute the paint in a way that affects its flow and leveling properties, leading to an uneven surface. Additionally, applying paint too thickly can prevent it from leveling out properly during the drying phase, causing orange peel to form as the surface dries unevenly. In contrast, other factors mentioned can contribute to painting challenges, but they are not as directly linked to the orange peel effect. Low-quality paint may have other issues, high humidity can affect drying times but does not primarily cause this defect, and not using a primer might lead to adhesion problems or other surface issues, but it is less likely to specifically cause orange peel compared to the