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As reported by Products Finishing Online in their article “Powder Coatings vs Energy-Cure Coatings,” both powder and energy-cure coatings offer unique advantages for industrial applications. Powder coatings, known for their durability and minimal volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, and energy-cure coatings, such as ultraviolet (UV), UV-LED, and electron beam (EB) coatings, which are highly efficient and also emit virtually no VOCs, are both considered 100% solids coatings.
Advanced coating technologies are leveraged to provide optimal solutions for various industries. Powder coating, invented by Daniel Gustin and Albert Wainio in the early 1940s, is applied by spraying and requires electrostatics to adhere the powder to the part. This process is ideal for durable, heat-resistant substrates like metals, glass, and ceramics, but it can be challenging for non-conductive materials. The powder coating process involves a thermal cure, which requires baking the parts to melt the powder and initiate the cross-linking process, forming a continuous film.
In contrast, energy-cure coatings, developed in the late 1920s and commercialized in the 1970s, start as a liquid and are cured by exposing the coating to high-energy light waves or electrons. This method requires significantly less energy, as it focuses directly on the coating and does not necessitate heating the parts. Energy-cure coatings can be applied by various methods, including spraying, roll coating, and flow or curtain coating operations. These coatings often provide better performance at thinner film thicknesses compared to both solvent-borne and powder coatings.
The choice between powder and energy-cure coatings depends on the specific application requirements. For metal parts that can withstand high temperatures, powder coating is a straightforward option. However, for applications requiring greater energy savings or for heat-sensitive substrates, energy-cure coatings offer a viable alternative. The advancements in coating chemistry over the past 50 years have expanded the range of available options, making 100% solids technology suitable for virtually any application.
These innovative coating solutions are continuously explored and implemented to meet the diverse needs of clients, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of pfonline.com