Powder Coatings: The Future Standard Technology of Coating?

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Powder coatings have emerged as a prominent trend in the coatings industry, presenting not only a current preference but potentially the future standard. Unlike traditional coatings comprising binders, fillers, and solvents, powder coatings are solvent-free, ensuring they are void of volatile organic compounds (VOC-free). The absence of solvents contributes to a more environmentally friendly solution.

Upon application, the powder adheres to the substrate and necessitates curing at elevated temperatures, the intensity of which is contingent on the specific coating. Remarkably, advancements in technology now enable the coating and curing of heat-sensitive materials, such as wood or plastic, at temperatures as low as 120°C. This can be accomplished through alternative heating methods like UV or infrared curing.

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Alexander Wenzlik, Head of Technical Service Powder Coatings at ECKART, explains:

A distinctive advantage of powder coatings lies in the ability to achieve substantial layer thickness in a single application step. Unlike liquid coatings that often require multiple layers and extended drying times, powder coatings streamline the process, ensuring a quick, easy, and efficient application.

As companies increasingly prioritize reducing their carbon footprint, investing in powder coating technology demonstrates a forward-looking approach and environmental consciousness. Notably, the reusability of overspray significantly reduces waste. The transition from solvent-based to water-based paints could further evolve into the adoption of dry coatings, a technology that is readily available, leaving the choice in the hands of the industry.

ECKART's contribution: effect pigments dedicated for powder coatings

Coatings lacking the luster of sparkling metallic brightness, flop effects, or metallic gloss appear less appealing and valuable. Metallic effects not only enhance the object's shape but also introduce depth and a higher-quality appearance compared to uniform colors on the same object. Whether it's glitter effects from coarser particles or a smooth, regular metallized appearance from extremely fine pigments, the possibilities are extensive.

ECKART takes pride in offering a comprehensive range of effect pigments meticulously developed for powder coatings, including:

Aluminum Pigments:

These pigments generate bright effects due to the high reflecting properties of the base material aluminum. Pure aluminum requires encapsulation to enhance durability against chemical substances and weathering attacks.

Goldbronze Pigments:

Utilized to achieve copper and golden effects, these pigments contain pure copper. Despite encapsulation, caution is advised for exterior applications due to copper's high reactivity with oxygen.

Pearlescent Pigments:

An alternative to aluminum pigments, these pigments feature a base material of synthetic mica or glass. The color reflection results from surface treatment with metal oxides, producing a variety of colors depending on oxide type and coating thickness.

Stainless Steel Pigments:

Boasting high resistance properties, these pigments, offered in two stainless steel alloys, require no encapsulation, ensuring robustness and excellent resistance.

Zinc Pigments:

Serving as a corrosion protection for iron, zinc flakes offer anodic corrosion protection and a barrier effect in flake form. The use of zinc flakes offers predominantly technical and ecological advantages without any economic drawbacks.

For those seeking detailed information or wishing to delve deeper into our product range, we invite you to reach out directly with any questions. Our team provides professional and customer-specific support to meet your unique requirements.

Please click here to learn more about our pigment portfolio and our services tailor-made for the requirements of powder coatings.
POWDER COATINGS