Powder coatings are increasing their market share annually in the coating market. The growth rate is estimated at 7.6% annually. By 2022, they are expected to generate $12,332 million US. A more environmentally friendly alternative to other fabrication methods, powder coatings are a development of the later 20th century making them a newcomer. Among the various types of powder coatings, the most popular are thermosetting polymers. In this group, epoxy powder coating is a popular means of providing protection for metal substrates.
The Advantages of Epoxy Powder Coatings
Epoxies are a thermoset resin. As such, they are a member of the most common segment of powder coatings. In fact, epoxy powder coatings are among the most common type of powder coatings employed in industrial applications. They are increasingly finding favor for several reasons. As a material that can be reused and recycled, they are popular by fabricators and manufacturers alike. Their properties reduce the potential for wastage while abetting the concern for quality products that are ecologically friendly, economically viable and energy-efficient.
In addition to these, although the capabilities are affected by the specific formulation, and epoxy powder coating is described as
* Producing a hard surface over the substrate
* Creates a durable surface
* Corrosion resistant
* High adhesion properties
These make epoxy powder coatings very effective in certain industrial applications.
Two Standard Epoxy Powder Coatings
Epoxy comes in different types of coatings. They are applied in accordance with the basic principles that govern any coating process: Purpose, specifications and process. Two standard epoxy powder coatings are:
* Thick Functional Film Epoxy Powder Coatings: Thick describes the layering of epoxy powder on the substrate. Fusion bonded epoxy powder coatings (FBE), for example require a coating of between 250 and 500 micrometers, although it can be thicker if he specifications require it. The reason for such thickness is to allow increased functionality in exterior environments. With such thick coatings, the epoxy can act as insulation for various mechanical devices as well as for durable, corrosion resistant protection for underground gas and oil pipes.
* Thin Film Epoxy Powder Coatings: Thin film epoxy powder coatings are more aesthetically pleasing than functional. While they do offer anti-corrosive and durability to their products, this is only applicable for indoor applications. As such, they are applied to indoor furniture, hospital equipment, various household appliances and even fire extinguishers.
Epoxy Powder Coating: Popular Indoors and Outdoors
Epoxy powder coatings are a cost-effective means of providing environmentally friendly protection against corrosion. As a thermoset powder coating, epoxy has become one of the more popular coatings available for various industrial applications. Depending upon whether the intent is for internal or external use, the fabricator can vary the thickness, therefore ensuring the product emerges with an epoxy powder coating suitable for functioning in the specified environment.
