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The Importance of Industrial Coatings
Recent material science advances have led to new industrial coatings. These coatings guard against industrial dangers and improve substrate performance.
FREMONT, CA: Recent advances in material science have increasingly led to new industrial coatings. A coating not only protects against hazards in an industrial environment but can also improve a substrate's performance in other ways.
Introducing new industrial coatings means now is an excellent time to assess a facility's needs. In the long run, coating applications can save tens of thousands of dollars as part of an overall industrial maintenance strategy.
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When considering that industrial coatings can extend the life of protected surfaces and prevent critical equipment from experiencing unexpected failures, that figure is not particularly dramatic. When valuable assets are replaced, lost business opportunities can add up quickly.
Corrosion Protection Through Industrial Coatings
The most far-reaching and ever-present danger in the industrial environment is corrosion. Various industrial machines can break down suddenly due to corrosion, creating the conditions for a potentially dangerous accident.
A study conducted by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers, a dedicated professional association established in 1943, estimated the annual cost of corrosion at more than $2.5 trillion, equal to 3.4 percent of the world's GDP. Anticorrosion practices can save up to 35 percent of that amount.
Investing in industrial coatings is one of the best ways to prevent corrosion. Corrosion is most likely to occur in humid environments, especially when humidity is between 70 and 80 percent and temperatures above 32°F. There is vital to be vigilant if the workplace matches these readings for part or all of the year.
The best way to prevent corrosion on exterior equipment is to apply directly to metal coatings or epoxy coatings. Direct-to-metal coatings are often used in marine applications but can also be beneficial in humid tropical or coastal climates.
Due to improved product quality, direct-to-rust coatings have gained broader acceptance in recent years. Direct-to-rust formulas can increase protection against extreme weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. The process can be applied to ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as to wood and certain plastics. Before using a coating, it is crucial to remediate underlying rust in some industrial settings.
An epoxy or urethane coating can prevent industrial abrasion
For a good reason, Epoxy's most high-profile role is in epoxy floor systems. Adding Epoxy to surfaces that are subject to abrasion extends their life. Industrial leaders are increasingly looking for ways to prolong the life of aging concrete slabs using Epoxy.
A relatively thick layer of Epoxy can be applied instead of polishing existing concrete, resulting in a slippery and potentially unsafe surface. This protects the underlying concrete so that it may never need to be replaced during the facility's lifetime.
Epoxy floors make safety painting extremely simple and easy. Accidents are less likely to occur when there is more traction. Different materials can be added to the flooring formula for different applications to produce the right grip properties.
Garages and logistical facilities are quite popular with Epoxy. The improved surface quality can benefit all types of vehicles, including wheeled pallets. The additional compressive strength provided by Epoxy reduces the risk of cracking under the impact that concrete floors exhibit.
Industrial coatings support safety protocols
OSHA safety standards apply to industrial workplaces regardless of their size or sector. The wear and tear on substrates increase the likelihood of accidents. Chips, cracks, and even crumbling surfaces are possible. Equipment failure can pose a significant risk.
The industrial safety bodies may sanction industries despite no reportable safety incidents resulting from substrate deterioration. In severe cases, the organization may be held liable. The cost of industrial insurance may rise, and harsher standards may be implemented.
The investment industries make in industrial coatings will protect them from these outcomes and control the overall cost of long-term maintenance. Operating costs will be lower since fewer items need repair over time, and they'll have more flexibility to intervene when damage occurs.
The Right Coatings are Crucial to the Longevity of the Facility
The importance of industrial coatings is often overlooked, primarily when everything works as it should. When applied and maintained correctly, the "invisible barrier" against industrial damage has tangible, bottom-line benefits. It is essential to work with painting contractors who understand the industry and how different areas of the facility function, ensuring the proper coatings are selected.
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