Today, the American market for architectural powder coating services is featuring a growth spurt. While previously not uncommon, powder coatings for this purpose have not been embraced in America as they have in Europe until recently. Some experts believe powder will surpass or even replace liquid coatings in this area.
A Brief History
Since the emergence of powder coating technology in the 1960s, its global use in industrial applications – but not architectural ones – became commonplace. In Europe and Asia, however, it soon became popular for usage in architecture. From the 1970s onwards, European designers encouraged its employment and instituted specifications. GSB International, a German Organization and the British Standards (BSI) Institute began to produce performance and construction specifications for powder coatings.
In the United States, the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) established specifications. However, in the 1980s, while some interest was shown, the industry did not embrace powder coating. Instead, they remained true to liquid coatings. It was not until the industry made certain advances in technology the powder coating appeared as not only a more viable but also a more attractive option.
The development of polyester resins that resulted in stable and loss gloss results helped to increase architectural applications and peak interest on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Formulas that improved the ability of the coatings to resist weathering (UV protection and water resistance) and enhanced an anti-corrosion barrier were also positive factors. One further influence was the environmental movement and the accompanying legislation.
The Move towards Powder Coating
Powder coating services increased its market share are architectural designers and builders realized several of the benefits of this method. Particularly in the aluminum market, construction noted the following advantages of the process:
- Environmentally friendly
- Reclaimable making it more efficient and cost-effective
- Excellent durability
- Versatility – comes in many colors and textures
- Quality finish infers high quality work
- Comparable and even less expensive than other popular means of product finishing including plating and liquid coating
These factors add to the overall appeal of powder coatings for architectural applications.
Architectural Powder Coating Services
Today’s powder coating market is expanding into the American architectural industry. As they become more aware of the benefits of using powder coating, they are making the change. Where a reluctance once existed, it is vanishing being replaced by the realization of how the company, the architectural project and the environment can all benefit from turning to the right powder coating services.
