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 organizations, 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 specialized field, paint technicians with experience and knowledge of the subject, are the ones who move into research.
Satisfying Aspects
- finding solutions to complicated problems concerning paint and the use of it
- variety of work and specialities
- good job opportunities
Demanding aspects
- working with chemicals that have strong smells
- keeping abreast of new developments
Requirements
A paint technologist should:
- have scientific and mathematical ability;
- be able to reason analytically;
- approach problems in a methodical way;
- be accurate;
- be able to work independently;
- have normal colour vision.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences
Training
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, except Medunsa. 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.
Employer
- Paint manufacturers
- SABS
- CSIR
- Mittal Steel
- Transnet
- Municipalities
- Motor manufacturers
- Self-employment, with enough experience, can start own business as a consultant or researcher
Contact
S A Paint Manufacturers Association
and S A Paint Industry Training Institute
P?O?Box 751605
Gardenview, 2047
Tel: (011) 455-2503 Fax:?86 623 5121
www.sapma.org.za
Institute of Polymer Technology
Pretoria University of Technology
Private Bag X680
Pretoria, 0001
Tel (012) 841 4972 Fax (012) 841 4924.
Institute of Polymer Science
University of Stellenbosch, 7600
Tel (021) 808 3172 Fax (012) 808 4967.
Plastics Federation of SA
Private Bag X68
Halfway House, 1685
Tel (011) 314 4021 / (011) 314 3764.
www.plasticsinfo.co.za