PPG Aerospace CA 3000 Epoxy System: Interior Protection & Procurement Guide 

PPG Aerospace CA-3000, which is commercially identified as the KOROPON HS CA-3000 series epoxy topcoats, is a high-solids epoxy system that is engineered for structural performance and interior aircraft protection. According to the manufacturer, CA-3000 is specifically designed to protect aircraft interiors from aggressive fluids, namely Skydrol hydraulic fluids. 

Within the broader context of advanced materials used for aircraft structures, CA-3000 epoxy plays an important role in protecting composite materials, aluminum, titanium, and even some steel substrates. It is relevant material for aerospace manufacturers, MRO facilities, and even squadron-level structural repair teams, who need reliable epoxy systems for high-performance aircraft.

It is intended for structural protection and reinforcement of interior assemblies where mechanical fasteners cannot be used and is compatible with epoxy primer systems and lightweight designs where long-term reliability and control weight are important, but flexibility is not a requirement. 

Product Highlights: Superior Mechanical Properties

CA-3000 is formulated to provide secure mechanical strength aligned with aircraft structural performance. The system provides excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance for the top coat, enhancing its reliability in bonded aluminum and composite structures. This product maintains service performance across a broad temperature range of -54°C to 177°C (-65°F to 350°F). 

This ensures consistent structural integrity in both high-altitude cold-soak and elevated-temperature environments. It has strong resistance to jet fuel and hydraulic fluids, increasing durability under harsh chemical exposure typical of interior aircraft structures. 

Tunable Properties and Formulation Options

CA 3000 is a 2-component system consisting of a base component and an activator, mixed at a 3:1 ratio. This controlled mix ratio provides a consistent system performance when applied properly. Viscosity ranges are defined across multiple measurement standards, including Zahn and Ford, allowing manufacturers to select application parameters that meet their process requirements. With a pot life of 4 hours at 21 to 25°C (70 to 77°F), the system gives a balanced working time for production efficiency and controlled application. 

Cured flexibility includes ambient drying and accelerated-cure options, such as 60 minutes at 65°C or 150°F. Following flash-off, these options enable the system to be tuned to structural design requirements, fixed schedules, and assembly workflows. 

Compatibility With Composite Materials

CA3000 epoxy systems demonstrate excellent compatibility with epoxy primers and advanced substrates widely used in modern aircraft structures. It needs to be applied over clean, dry, intact epoxy primers, which support multi-material assemblies, including composites, aluminum, and titanium substrates.

The product is compatible with primer specifications like BMS 10-11 Type I, EMS 53181 Type I, and DMS 1786. 

When applied within 48 hours of primer application, no special preparation is needed. Beyond 48 hours, though, light abrasion and solvent cleaning are recommended. 

Applications in Aircraft Structures

PPG Aerospace CA 3000 epoxy is widely used on aircraft structures that demand chemical resistance, corrosion protection, and rigid structural performance. Flexible top coats are better suited for external structures that require flexion.

Some of the more common aerospace applications include:

- Bonded panels

- Brackets

- Reinforced joints

- Other interior assemblies that are exposed to chemicals

Recommended dry film thickness is 45 to 55 µm or 1.8 to 2.2 mils.

Supporting weight control, lightweight designs, while maintaining a high level of performance.

The system is compatible with some of the more common spray technologies that include:

- Elasto electrostatic

- HA-VLP

- air-assisted airless

- conventional spray equipment

providing adaptability across commercial aerospace manufacturing and military MRO operations. 

Process, Mixing, and Cure Recommendations

Application conditions are recommended at 15 to 30°C with the relative humidity between 20% and 90%. Ground the aircraft and equipment during application. Dry times range from 3 to 5 hours, depending on temperature, with a full dry through occurring between 7.5 and 11 hours. 

Surface Preparation and Adhesion Control

To maximize toughness and form in epoxy top coats, a variety of surface preparation and adhesion-control techniques are employed. CA-3000 must be applied over clean, dry, intact epoxy primers. If the primer exceeds a 48-hour top recoat window, light abrasion followed by solvent cleaning with approved cleaners is highly recommended. 

Test Data, Certifications, and Qualifications

CA 3000 meets several aircraft specifications. These include:

- DMS 2433 type I composition C

- CMS-CT 203 type I class III

- EMS 53181 type II class A and C

- GMS 5006 type I

- HMS 15-1100 type II class II

- MCS9010 type X class I grade II

- MS10014E class HS

- ZMS 2433 type I comp C

These support use across many aircraft applications and commercial programs that require compliance with OEM standards. 

Handling, Safety, and Storage

All chemicals require specific handling, which is always outlined in the mandated safety data sheets or SDS. These articles will be posted in all environments where the chemical is present.

Generally speaking, you need to abide by shelf-life requirements and maintain a safe storage environment, namely a dedicated hazmat locker. Make sure this is in a controlled-temperature environment and not exposed to extremes (e.g., too hot or too cold). 

Procuring CA-3000 from Greenwood Aerospace via GSA Advantage. 

When we got on the GSA schedule, we did it for a reason: to streamline the procurement process for government professionals. The procurement process is notoriously difficult and takes forever. GSA Advantage cuts the red tape and cuts the time frames. 

You can source CA 3000 from us at a guaranteed price and with guaranteed availability, along with dozens of other PPG aerospace products. GSA Advantage is an easy application, just like PPG adhesives, and our central location makes shipping a breeze. 

Greenwood Aerospace partners with prime defense contractors to support military and government export programs. We are ITAR-registered, AS9120B-certified, and an approved GSA Schedule contractor.

GSA MAS Contract Number: 47QSMS25D00B8

Compliance & Registration

ITAR DDTC Export Compliant

Cage Code: 2Y735

UEI: KVSUYYSJS174

DUNS: 604006874

NAICS: 488190, 336413, 332722, 336411, 481212, 532411

For large orders or expedited delivery, contact 580-865-6000, 833-GSA-EBUY (833-472-3289), or gsasales@greenwood.aero.