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The Pica-Dry 3030 is the tradesman's marker: an automatic pencil that writes on wet, dusty, oily, rough, and glossy surfaces where graphite will not. The patented Power Lock mechanism grips the lead three ways so it does not push back under pressure.
Push the cap to advance the lead, cap it to store. Takes water-soluble or water-resistant refills, and the built-in sharpener in the cap keeps a point on it all day.
Frequently asked questions
How do I refill the Pica-Dry pen?
Refilling is straightforward. Remove the rear cap, insert the new lead into the back of the pen, and the automatic push mechanism will feed it for immediate use.
Can this pen mark on wet or dusty surfaces?
Yes, the FOR ALL graphite leads are specifically designed to mark on wet, glossy, rough, or dusty surfaces. These marks resist smudging and fading in these conditions.
Will the marks hold up in hot Australian weather?
For outdoor work in heat, use the water-resistant Summer leads. They remain stable and effective in temperatures up to 70°C, suitable for Australian summer conditions.
What if the lead breaks easily during use?
Use the reinforced Pica refill cases, which offer 4x stiffness to minimise breakage. Always apply moderate pressure and avoid excessive force to prevent lead snapping.
How are marks cleaned off glossy surfaces?
Marks made on glossy surfaces can typically be wiped clean with a damp cloth. For situations requiring permanent marks, choose the water-resistant leads.
Substrate guide
Effective marking relies on appropriate surface condition, ensuring clear and durable lines without compromise.
Timber
Surface prep: Ensure the timber surface is clean and free from heavy oils or loose debris to allow fine, accurate markings to adhere correctly.
Primer: Not required.
Glass
Surface prep: Clean glass to remove any grease or film for clear marking. The pen is designed for temporary marks on glossy surfaces.
Primer: Not required.
Concrete
Surface prep: Remove significant loose dust or standing water. The pen is engineered to provide high visibility marks even on rough and dusty concrete surfaces.
Primer: Not required.
Metal
Surface prep: Ensure the metal is free of heavy rust, oil, or grease for optimal mark adherence. Provides accurate lines for fabrication and installation work.
Primer: Not required.
Plastic (PVC, Polycarbonate)
Surface prep: Clean plastic surfaces to remove dirt or film. The pen marks various plastics, including PVC and polycarbonate, for conduit and component identification.
Primer: Not required.
Pica-Dry® Longlife Automatic Pen Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Graphite, polycarbonate, stainless steel |
| Shore Hardness | 2B, H |
| Application Temperature | -10°C to 70°C |
| Storage Temperature | 0°C to 40°C |
| Water Resistance | Water jet resistant with summer leads |
| Substrate Compatibility | Marks on dry, wet, glossy, rough, dusty surfaces |
| Certifications | ISO 14001 Environmental Compliance, Australian Tool Safety Standards |
| Resistance Testing | Triple lead holding power, dust and moisture resistant |
| Shelf Life | Indefinite with proper storage |