Industrial Coatings

What can engineered nano-coatings do for a plastic or metal part?

They act as an invisible functional layer rather than a decorative one. Documented functionality includes UV protection, hydrophobic and superhydrophobic surfaces, oleophobic and hydrophilic surfaces, fog resistance, self-cleaning and easy-clean surfaces, scratch and abrasion resistance, anti-fingerprint, anti-corrosion and anti-icing behaviour. The coating is engineered to the function required, not selected from a catalogue.

How are these coatings applied?

The principal methods are spray atomisation, dip coating and roll coating. Which one applies depends on part geometry, the film thickness and uniformity required, and the production volume -- the application method is part of the coating specification rather than a downstream detail.

What does a UV protective coating actually prevent?

It blocks ultraviolet from penetrating the coated surface, which protects plastics against yellowing, cracking and fading. For parts with a long outdoor service life this is usually what determines whether the appearance holds up over the warranty period.

Why not use an off-the-shelf coating?

Because not all coatings are created equal and a one-size-fits-all product is formulated for an average case rather than for the substrate and service conditions in front of you. Coatings tailored to the specific application yield better durability, optimised performance and a better appearance. Advanced coating solutions have been developed here since 1992.

Can graphics be printed directly onto low surface energy plastics instead of using labels?

Yes. Direct digital printing onto low surface energy materials such as polypropylene is now possible and eliminates adhesive labels in many applications. Products built for harsh exterior exposure -- snowmobiles are the documented example -- carry graphics printed directly onto the surface, which withstands extreme weathering far better than a label.