QUALICOAT Licences New Powder Systems
Providence Tower - London
Powder is the fundamental and visible component in architectural powder coating, serving as the medium that provides durability, protection, and aesthetic appeal to architectural aluminium coated surfaces. Unlike liquid paint, powder coating uses a dry, electrostatically charged powder that adheres to metal or other conductive materials before being cured under heat to form a tough, uniform finish. The quality, composition, and particle size of the powder directly impact the coating’s adhesion, coverage, and resistance to chemicals and UV exposure. Additionally, powder coatings are environmentally friendly, as they contain no solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them a sustainable and efficient choice for specifiers in construction projects.
The latest powder coating formulations now include advanced resins, nanotechnology additives and bio-based ingredients to enhance performance, durability, and sustainability. Modern formulations incorporate super-durable, known as QUALICOAT Class 2, polyester resins for improved UV resistance, making them ideal for high-rise architectural applications. Low-temperature curing powders are now being been developed and launched to reduce energy consumption whilst maintaining strong adhesion and good mechanical properties. Additionally, antimicrobial and easy-clean coatings are gaining popularity, particularly in healthcare and food processing industries. Innovations in metallic and special-effect powders allow for a wider range of finishes, from matte textures to high-gloss and chrome-like effects.
QUALICOAT membership forms a vertically integrated supply chain, not only do powder coat applicators join the Association to demonstrate their ability to supply high quality coatings, but powder manufacturers and pre-treatment systems suppliers also make up membership of the Association. Working together enables advancement in the architectural coating process which is issued in the QUALICOAT Specification that all members must adhere to and are third party inspected, then given a licence to use the coveted QUALICOAT label of conformity.
For specifiers seeking to minimise their energy consumption during their sustainability journey towards a net-zero carbon future, QUALICOAT Member Interpon have launched a new range of low-energy (Low-E) powders, to their popular Class 1, D1036 range of powders and a Low-E range of powders to their Class 2, D2525 range of powders. Both new powder systems presents a step change in the Industry. These Low-E coating powders achieve an industry milestone by enabling curing at temperatures as low as 150°C while maintaining QUALICOAT certification.
Low-E curing powders empowers applicators and fabricators to achieve their sustainability objectives in two distinct ways: either by reducing curing temperatures by 30°C compared to conventional powder coatings or by optimising line speeds. In both scenarios, the product contributes to energy reduction, thereby lowering carbon emissions and enhancing production line efficiencies simultaneously. Notably, this innovation was conceived by AkzoNobel and is adaptable to various applications within the built environment, including building facades and windows, railings, and doors. It can be utilised in any scenario where an architectural-certified product is typically applied.
In the current era where businesses strive to contribute to energy reduction and accelerate sustainability, Low-E powders not only support architects and applicators in reducing their own carbon footprint but also aligns with AkzoNobel’s ambitious goal of achieving a 50% carbon reduction across its entire value chain.
By optimising oven temperatures, energy reductions of up to 20% can be achieved, resulting in significantly less energy consumption and a reduced environmental impact. Conversely, setting the shortest possible curing time that the line can accommodate yields energy reductions of up to 50%. These Low-E curing powders exhibit comparable application properties to standard formulations, making it suitable for both exterior and interior applications. These new formulations are available in a diverse range of colours, including gloss, satin, matte, and fine textures.
Development continues with new formulations that offer extended sustainability with resistance to weathering. All new formulations are rigorously tested by powder system manufacturers who are members of QUALICOAT and are independently approved by the Association to conform to the QUALICOAT Specification.
Should you wish to learn more about membership of QUALICOAT please get in touch. All QUALICOAT UK & Ireland members are available to offer advice and can be found on the Association website at qualicoatuki.org