Applying Hydrophobic Lens Coating

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The nano-coat provides a barrier in order to prevent dust, water or oils from covering the camera lens. NANOKOTE Glass & Ceramic is currently recommended by the DFN. The coating process can be completed in 3 simple steps:

  • Pre-Cleaning
  • Applying Nano-coating
  • Polishing
  • Curing

Coating Process

Pre-Cleaning:

In order to pre-clean your camera lens you should first try to remove any dirt or marks (e.g. fingerprints). After cleaning the surface, allow for any moisture to dry off and then apply the Nanokote pre-cleaner onto the lens using a cotton or micro-fiber cloth (DO NOT USE PAPER TOWELS!). It may be necessary to remove some contaminants with a scourer (make sure the scourer is used on a wet surface to prevent scratching). In a high moisture environment, wiping the surface with a small amount of methylated spirits may improve the surface prior to the application of the Nanokote pre-cleaner.

Applying Nano-coating

The application of the Nanokote solution should be performed with gloves (contact with skin my result in moisture removal). The coat should be applied 3 times, using roughly 3 mL of solution (8-10 squirts = 1 mL) per coat. Each coat should be wiped with the included application cloth in a circular motion across the lens. After you have finished applying the coating a faint grey film should become visible (this is best viewed from an acute angle) indicating that the surface is completely coated. Allow the Nanokote solution to stand for 5 minutes undisturbed.

Polishing

After the Nanokote has finished drying it should then be polished to remove the grey film until it is completely clear with a soft cotton cloth.

Curing

When choosing to apply a nano-coat you must consider that you should not allow the Nanokote to come into contact with water or detergents for 1 hour after application. After the 1 hour period is finished you can test the coating by performing a drop test. Simply test that water dropped onto the lens is collecting into droplets and not spreading out into a uniform film.

Cleaning Instructions

  • Do not use aggresive cleaners (e.g. abrasives or highly alkaline products), these will damage the coating.
  • In locations of hard water, bore water or silica rich water it will be necessary to squeegee down the coated glass after each use. Frequent cleaning with a citric cleaner and micro-fiber cloth will also be necessary.
  • It is recommended that you use dye-free and lint-free wipes or lens wipes for cleaning. Never use paper towels.
  • To maintain the coated surface, regular cleaning with a mild detergent is recommended (Check recommendations for products you should avoid).