Rust Prevention — Adds a zinc-rich barrier against corrosion, especially important on bare steel and iron.

Surface Coverage — Provides full concealment of underlying surface imperfections before topcoating.

✓  When painting bare metal, particularly steel or iron prone to rust.

✓  When the surface is frequently exposed to moisture or extreme temperature fluctuations.

✓  When maximum rust protection is the priority — XTC's product page notes that maximum rust protection is obtained by first priming with XTC Primer.

XTC Primer — Key Features

1,200°F Heat Resistance — Remains stable even under intense heat conditions throughout the full temperature range.

Superior Rust & Corrosion Protection — Acts as a zinc-rich barrier against oxidation and moisture, ideal for bare metal surfaces.

Exceptional Durability — Outstanding adhesion, film integrity, weathering, and thermal shock-resistance. Once heat-cured, it creates a tough, chip-resistant finish that won't crack, peel, or flake.

Hides Surface Imperfections — Provides full coverage and concealment of underlying surface irregularities.

Compatible with Steel, Cast Iron & More — Versatile for a wide range of high-temperature metal applications.

Can Serve as Final Finish — Does not have to be topcoated. Apply two coats and cure for a standalone finish.

Pro Tip: XTC Primer Can Be the Final Coat

XTC Primer does not require a topcoat. When used as a standalone finish, apply two thin coats. However, topcoating with XTC adds additional protection and gives you access to over 11 color options.

XTC – Key Features

1,500°F (816°C) Heat Resistance — Engineered for the most demanding environments. Guaranteed not to burn off.

Corrosion & Oxidation Resistance — Blocks moisture and contaminants from penetrating metal surfaces. Maximum rust protection is achieved by first priming with XTC Primer.

Exceptional Durability — Outstanding adhesion, film integrity, weathering, and thermal shock-resistance. Once heat-cured, it forms a chip-resistant finish that resists cracking, peeling, and flaking.

11+ Color Options — Unlike many heat-resistant coatings, XTC comes in over 11 colors for automotive, industrial, and household applications.

All-in-One Solution — The XTC Primer + XTC system ensures optimal performance, reducing the risk of rust, peeling, bubbling, and premature failure.

Easy Application — Apply with a brush, roller, or spray gun — convenient for professionals and DIYers alike.

Cost-Effective — Protects metal from deterioration, reducing costly replacements and repairs over time.

Tested for Reliability — Engineered to withstand thermal cycling (repeated heat-up and cool-down cycles) without degrading.

Safety First

Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate respiratory and eye protection when handling XTC Primer and XTC.

Ideal Application Conditions

Apply between 60–80°F with humidity below 85%. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or excessively humid conditions.

Mix Thoroughly Before Use

Use a paint paddle to stir from top to bottom for at least one minute before applying. For aerosols, shake the can for at least one minute once the mixing ball moves freely, then shake 10 seconds for every minute of use. Keep the product thoroughly mixed throughout the application.

Aerosol: Hold the can 12–15 inches from the surface. Apply with steady, even, overlapping strokes.

Dry time between coats: 15–30 minutes (spray) or 8 hours (brush/roll). Heavy applications reduce coating life and adhesion — always apply thin coats.

Before topcoating: Allow primer to dry completely (typically 1–2 hours) before applying XTC.

Note: XTC Primer must be temperature cured. If topcoating with XTC, curing is performed after the final XTC coat — the single cure process cures both layers simultaneously.

Aerosol: Hold the can 12–15 inches from the surface. Apply with steady, even, overlapping strokes.

Dry time between coats: 15–30 minutes (spray) or 8 hours (brush/roll).

Dry before handling: Allow XTC to dry completely before handling (typically 1–2 hours depending on conditions).

Temperature Curing Process

Step A: Heat the coated metal to approximately 350°F for 20–30 minutes (oven, BBQ grill, or on the engine for exhaust parts).

Step B: Heat until XTC begins to smoke, then remove from heat. Allow to cool naturally to room temperature.

Step C: Repeat for a total of three heat/cool cycles.

Step D: Perform a fourth heat cycle. Heat until XTC smokes again and keep heated until smoke fully dissipates.

Step E: Remove from heat and allow to cool naturally to room temperature. This gradual process ensures proper adhesion and long-term durability.

Important: Ventilation During Curing

Ventilation is crucial during initial heat curing — the coating may emit potentially harmful vapors. Avoid excessive heat during the first few cycles to allow the resins to temper into the substrate properly. If touch-ups are needed, follow the same preparation, application, and curing process.

Do I need to use a primer with high-temperature paint?

Not always. KBS XTC can adhere directly to bare metal without a primer. However, using XTC Primer first adds a zinc-rich rust barrier and helps conceal surface imperfections. For bare steel or iron exposed to moisture or repeated thermal cycling, primer is strongly recommended for maximum durability.

Can XTC Primer be used as a final finish coat without a topcoat?

Yes. XTC Primer can serve as a durable standalone finish and does not require a topcoat. When used alone, apply two thin coats and temperature cure. Topcoating with XTC adds additional protection and gives you access to 11+ color options.

How hot can XTC Primer and XTC withstand?

XTC Primer is rated to 1,200°F. XTC is rated to 1,500°F (816°C) and is guaranteed not to burn off. Both products require temperature curing before use.

How many coats of XTC do I need?

If using XTC Primer, one coat of primer plus one coat of XTC is the standard recommendation. Without primer, apply a minimum of two coats of XTC. Two to three coats generally provide optimal durability depending on service conditions. Always apply thin coats — heavy applications reduce coating life and adhesion.

How do I temperature cure XTC?

Heat the coated metal to approximately 350°F using an oven, BBQ grill, or (for exhaust parts) directly on the engine. Heat until XTC begins to smoke, then remove and allow to cool naturally. Repeat for three total heat/cool cycles. On the fourth cycle, heat until the smoke fully dissipates, then cool. When XTC is applied over XTC Primer, this single cure process cures both layers simultaneously.

What surfaces can I apply XTC and XTC Primer to?

XTC and XTC Primer are compatible with steel, cast iron, and other metals. Common applications include exhaust headers, manifolds, exhaust pipes, engine components, fireplaces, BBQ grills, stoves, and industrial equipment exposed to extreme heat.

Ready to protect your high-heat metal surfaces?

Shop XTC and XTC Primer — or review the full application directions before you begin. Have a question about your project? We're here to help.

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