FS33481 Zinc Chromate Yellow

What zinc chromate yellow is

A zinc chromate finish was the usual protection of light alloys against corrosion in the nineteen thirties and forties. In American aircraft production it was applied to the interior surfaces of the airframe, that is to spars, ribs, the inside of the landing gear bays and the parts of the cockpits that were never shown to the outside. The shade is strikingly saturated, yellow-green, and on a finished model it looks unexpectedly fresh, because it contrasts with the muted coloring of the exterior finish. That is exactly why it is worth leaving part of the structure in view, through an open bomb bay or a cover swung aside.

The shade according to the standard

The number 33481 comes from the American Federal Standard 595, which describes shades by a five-digit number. The leading three in it means a matte finish, so the paint dries without a sheen. The number in the name therefore determines not only the color itself but its final appearance as well, which is useful when looking up matching shades in other ranges.

How to apply the paint

Stir the contents thoroughly before use, because the pigment settles in acrylic paint. Apply it in thin coats onto a clean, degreased surface, ideally over a base coat. A matte surface picks up fingerprints easily, so once it has dried handle the part with gloves or by its edges. The recommended thinning and ratio are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Who it is for

For builders of American aircraft who want the interior surfaces true to the real thing. The model, brush and thinner are not part of the package, unless stated otherwise.