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OEM

Film Builds

The Dry Film Build is the cured total paint layer measured in microns (µm) or in mil.
A Micron is one thousandth of a Millimetre 
It is important that film builds are within motor manufacturers’ and paint manufacturers’ specifications



OEM - Original Equipment Manufacturer’s paint finish, is the approximate thickness of a strand of Human hair totaling approximately 90-120 Microns.

It is recommended that when a paint finish reaches and dry film thickness of 300 microns and above , it should either be removed completely, or sanded back to an allowable tolerance which when refinished will not exceed the allowable limit.

Excessive paint film thickness can cause durability problems such as:
  • Cracking
  • Excessive stone chipping
  • Loss of gloss
  • Sinkage
  • Pickling
  • Delamination
Various Equipment manufacturers produce paint film thickness gauges, of varying quality and cost. These gauges are very simple and easy to use.
 
As part of the initial inspection of a vehicle, prior to paint repair, it should be standard practice to check the paint film thickness.