Industrial paint has many valuable uses, from preventing corrosion to reducing energy loss. It’s critical to make the right industrial paint choices. This includes paint types, elements, and methods.
What methods are available for industrial paint? Why is it important? Read on for a guide to the four different methods of industrial paint coatings to find out.
1. Powder Coating Industrial Paint Method
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Powder coatings are a solvent-free dry method. The dry powder is applied to surfaces cleaned of any liquids, oils, or particles. The application uses an electrostatic industrial paint sprayer or gun.
After application, the powder coating is cured in an oven. The result is a thick, durable outer layer protecting against corrosion and abrasion. Powder coatings also apply a finished and polished look over raw metal surfaces.
Powder coating is popular with industrial painting jobs for various accessories, including:
- Bumpers
- Truck beds
- Decorative trim
- Window frames
- Electrical fixtures
- Traffic signs
- Bicycles
- Golf clubs
- Kitchen appliances
Powder coatings have the added bonus of being EPA compliant. Unlike other industrial paint methods, they don’t release harmful VOCs into the air.
2. Solvent-Based Industrial Paint Method
Solvent-based coatings have been the industrial standard. Most industrial paint supplies were solvent-based before other methods became widely available.
Like water-based, solvent-based coatings use liquefying agents. These agents evaporate once they come into contact with the air.
This process dries and sets the coating. Unfortunately, these solvents also release harsh odors and VOCs into the air as they dry.
Solvent-based coatings are less affected by humidity and temperature, however. They also don’t need extra measures to prevent corrosion or rust spots.
Despite the VOCs, this method is still preferred for certain industrial painting jobs and environments. Water-based methods are less effective for certain conditions or surfaces.
3. Water-Based Industrial Paint Method
The water-based industrial paint coating method has become due to its low environmental impact. The liquefying agent uses water instead of organic compounds that release VOCs.
The main drawback of water-based coatings is the drying process. Water is slower to evaporate in high humidity or low temperatures, which increases the drying time and the risk of coating interference.
Industrial painting companies working in harsher environments may have to use solvent-based coatings despite environmental concerns. The industrial painting contractor must also take extra steps to make sure the water in a water-based coating doesn’t cause its own corrosion or rust.
4. Anti-Fouling Industrial Paint Method
Anti-fouling coatings prevent organic growth on surfaces. This is especially important for maritime industries.
Ships and other vessels will use these coatings on their hull to prevent biofouling. Sealife like barnacles, algae, and tubeworms can latch onto vessels and cause performance issues.
This coating method can also reduce watercraft’s high corrosion rates. There are environmental concerns, however.
Most anti-fouling agents release toxins into the water that harm the ecology. This toxic effect is driving research into more environmentally friendly anti-fouling coating methods.
Finding The Best Industrial Paint Method For You
Industrial paint can add protection and high-performance finishes to your equipment and vehicles. You can make the most out of your industrial paint by choosing the right coating method.
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