Marine polyurethane enamel paint and other polyurethane enamel paint?

what is the difference between marine polyurethane enamel paint and other polyurethane enamel paint?Marine polyurethane enamel paint and other polyurethane enamel paint?
There are several different types of polyurethane coatings, but the it would be incorrect to call any of them enamels. Enamels are oil based coatings. However, I think your question is what are the differences between marine and other urethane coatings........While the formulations vary slightly, for most applications, there is little difference. Good luck! Edit............Polyurethane coatings were developed for aviation use, because the weight of the coating was significantly less than than the acrylic coatings then in use.....as it turned out it was also slicker, thus reducing drag....the next step was to replace varnish in furniture, and then in coatings for the auto and marine uses...both auto and marine have good UV properties, and the solids content varies with the color and application, but the basic coatings are the same.Marine polyurethane enamel paint and other polyurethane enamel paint?
Mostly there are small differences only between marine use and other for all coatings. But the differences can be fundamental for the purpose - a marine coating has to withstand huge instant changes in surface temperature (think of a wave across a grey deck in high summer), continuous immersion, UV exposure and so on. While there may not be much technically different the small changes in formulation may greatly alter the time the finish will last. A urethane/enamel hybrid has greater plasticity than a pure urethane - better for flexible surfaces perhaps. Softer though, so scratches easier.





I don't like urethanes, poly or otherwise - too plastic and external to the surface, particularly from my extensive use of timber over the decades. They were introduced into various markets as a cheap, low skills based ';instant'; finish - I think they don't last much longer than it takes to put them on, and can completely bugger it up if applied wrong or to inappropriate applications. Very very hard to overcoat if starting to lift or crack, often requires full strip and start again for minor damage unless you like the repair highlighted. (I do use linear polyurethanes over epoxy or fibreglass, as they are much tougher than gel coat. I would expect a minimum of ten years on a correctly prepared deck, probably twice that with a little care and maintenance.)





I have a business partner and good friend who is a senior airframe technician - all types including airbus 380. He runs national airport service hangers. He makes the observation that a satin/matt finish is always used on commercial airframes as the laminar airflow is significantly slicker through the air than a high gloss, which 'grabs' the air and drags more. This is the same with performance boats. I was looking at the hull of Secret Mens Business yesterday as she streaked past us at 18 knots - yep, matt finish below the waterline.
Usually it is the ingredients added for UV protection since boats are normally exposed to intense sunlight. Coloring has moderate effects.
Marine coatings are formulated to withstand the harsh environment that goes along with boating. Marine paints have higher solids and have a stronger UV protection additive.