What are Industrial Coatings?

Industrial coatings; a necessary component for the protection of products in manufacturing, construction and refinish.

Written by: Baril Coatings USA
Posted: February 24, 2023
updated on March 09, 2023

Industrial coatings serve to protect & preserve the surfaces of a variety of structures, machinery, and equipment in a variety of industries and markets. Whether they are protecting against corrosion or enhancing the durability and longevity of surfaces, industrial coatings are designed to withstand the harshest of conditions, in the most demanding of environments. Coatings come in various forms, such as paints, chemicals, and powders.

In this article, we will delve deep into the world of industrial coatings, exploring the many uses, benefits, and factors to consider when choosing the right coating for your specific needs. So, whether you are a manufacturer, contractor, specifying engineer or simply looking to learn more about industrial coatings, read on to discover the facts that you need to know.

Types of Industrial Coatings

While there are many different types of industrial coatings, the most common are epoxy coatings, polyaspartic coatings, polyurethane coatings, acrylic coatings, polyester coatings, and zinc-rich coatings.

Polyaspartic Coatings

A super high-performance, fast-curing, and highly durable industrial coating that’s a hybrid of polyurea and polyurethane. The coating provides a protective layer on surfaces like concrete floors, metal structures, and wood to name a few applications.

Epoxy Coatings

Epoxy coatings offer excellent adhesion to a variety of surfaces and provides exceptional corrosion resistance from salt water, detergents, solvents, and corrosive chemicals.

Polyurethane Coatings

Polyurethane coatings feature amazing flexibility, high impact resistance, and outstanding durability. They are commonly used in applications where high abrasion resistance and long-term color and gloss retention are required, such as needed with heavy machinery and outdoor equipment.

Acrylic Coatings

Acrylic coatings are known for their fast dry, excellent durability, UV resistance, and ease of application. They can be used in a variety of ways, such as top coats consisting of acrylic polyurethane enamel semi-gloss and high gloss hybrids.

Silicone Coatings

Silicone coatings provide excellent weather resistance and flexibility. They are commonly used in applications where high-temperature resistance is required, such as on furnace linings and high-temperature gaskets, to name a few.

Polyester Coatings

Polyester coatings known for their chemical resistance and excellent weather resistance. They are commonly used in exterior applications where chemical exposure is high and weather conditions and temperatures are constantly changing , such vehicles, boats and airplanes.

Alkyd Coatings

Alkyd coatings are known for their value, excellent application flexibility and fast dry capabilities. They are suitable for light to moderate exposure environments and offering good protection in most commercial and industrial environments. Their most common use are in applications like waste containers, shelving racks, ornamental iron and piping as they can be applied Direct to Metal (DTM).

Zinc-rich Coatings

Zinc-rich coatings are primers that feature extraordinary corrosion resistance by providing cathodic protection to the underlying metal surface, as well as superior adhesion, fast time to topcoat. They are commonly used in steel tanks, structural steel, construction equipment, agricultural equipment as well as marine and offshore applications. Perfect for any structural steel and other metal surfaces exposed to harsh environments.

Zinc Primer Industrial Coating Video

Here's a short video with customers discussing the pros of using a Zinc Industrial Coatings in their manufacturing process to ensure their products provide the best possible corrosion resistance available today.

What are some Benefits of Industrial Coatings?

Protection

Let’s face it, it’s one of the core duties of an Industrial Coating to protect surfaces from a wide range of environmental factors, including corrosion, abrasion, chemical exposure, and UV exposure. The protection of these surfaces means extended lifespans of machinery, equipment, and other structures - which saves money and reduces the need for costly repairs.

Enhanced Appearance

Everyone is interested in aesthetics, whether we admit to it or not. Enhancing the appearance of your product or structure, giving them a newer, more professional look, is yet another key benefit of using industrial coatings. Whether you're looking to improve the look of agricultural equipment, enhance the aesthetic appeal and modernize steel tanks, or create a more visually appealing product, industrial coatings can certainly take an eyesore and make it look brand new.

Increased Efficiency

Increasing the efficiency of machinery and other equipment is another byproduct benefit of industrial coatings. By reducing friction, improving heat dissipation, and reducing the effects of wear and tear, industrial coatings can help extend the lifespan of equipment while also reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Enhanced Safety

Yes, protective industrial coatings can even improve safety in a number of ways. For example, anti-slip coatings can help to reduce the risk of slips and falls and their unwanted lawsuits! Another example would be coatings that provide a non-flammable surface and can help to reduce the risk of fire and explosions; saving lives with industrial coatings!

Choosing the Right Industrial Coating for Your Needs

Choosing the right industrial coating for your needs can be challenging, so here are the factors to consider when making your selection include:

Surface Material

The type of surface you're looking to coat will play a key role in determining which coating is best for your needs. Are you coating for metal surfaces, concrete, plastic, or wood?

Environmental Conditions

The environments in which the coated surface will be used will play a huge role in determining the best coating solution for the job. If the surface will be exposed to harsh weather conditions, obviously a more durable coating application will be necessary utilizing a two-part solution with a primer and top-coat.

Performance Requirements

Finally, you'll need to consider the performance requirements of the coating. For example, if you're looking for a coating that will provide excellent corrosion resistance, a zinc-rich coating is potentially a great choice. If you're looking for a topcoat that will be exposed to chemicals or heat, then those factors need to front and center.

Conclusion

Industrial coatings offer a wide range of benefits to manufacturers in every market, contractors, and much, much more. From protection against environmental factors to improved efficiency and enhanced safety, industrial coatings can help to improve the performance and longevity of machinery, equipment, and other structures. When choosing an industrial coating, be sure to consider the surface material, environmental conditions, and performance requirements of the coating. With the right coating, you can realize improved performance and increased longevity for your machinery and equipment.

What you don't want is the image below:

FAQs about Industrial Coatings

What are industrial coatings used for?

Industrial coatings are used to protect surfaces from a wide range of environmental factors and variations, including corrosion, abrasion, chemical exposure, and UV exposure. They can also be used to enhance the appearance and efficiency of surfaces.

What are the different types of industrial coatings?

There are many different types of industrial coatings, including polyaspartic coatings, epoxy coatings, polyurethane coatings, silicone coatings, polyester coatings, and zinc-rich coatings, among others.

What are the benefits of industrial coatings?

Industrial coatings offer a wide range of benefits, including improved efficiency, enhanced safety, and protection against environmental factors. They can also help to extend the lifespan of machinery and equipment, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

How do I choose the right industrial coating for my needs?

When choosing an industrial coating, you should consider the surface material, environmental conditions, and performance requirements of the coating. You may also want to consider the specific benefits you're looking to achieve, such as improved efficiency, enhanced safety, or protection against environmental factors.

Are industrial coatings expensive?

The cost of industrial coatings can vary widely, depending on the type of coating and the specific application. In general, however, industrial coatings are relatively affordable, especially when compared to the cost of repairing or replacing machinery and equipment that has been damaged due to environmental factors or wear and tear. Overall, investing in an industrial coating is often a cost-effective way to protect your equipment and ensure that it performs at its best for years to come.

Can industrial coatings be used for outdoor applications?

Yes, industrial coatings are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. There are a variety of coatings available specifically for outdoor applications, which are formulated to withstand extreme weather conditions and environmental factors.

Do industrial coatings require special maintenance or upkeep?

The maintenance requirements of industrial coatings can vary, depending on the type of coating and the conditions in which it is used. Some industrial coatings may require periodic reapplication, while others are designed to last for many years with minimal maintenance. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintaining your coating to ensure its long-term performance and protection.

Are industrial coatings safe to use?

Generally speaking, yes they are safe to use provided they are used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions & guidelines. Take appropriate safety precautions; wear protective clothing and always use the proper equipment when applying industrial coatings.

Can industrial coatings be used in food processing facilities?

Yes, some industrial coatings are specifically designed for use in food processing facilities and are formulated to meet strict food safety requirements and standards. Safe for use in direct contact with food, these types of coatings help to protect food processing equipment from contamination.

How do I properly prepare the surface before applying industrial coatings?

Proper surface preparation is mission-critical for the best performance and longevity of your industrial coating. From cleaning the surface to removing any existing coatings, to repairing any damages or defects; you should be certain to start with the most properly prepared surface possible! It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for surface preparation to ensure a successful and long-lasting application.

Industrial Coating on Manufacturing Equipment

An example of industrial coatings heaviliy applied to manufacturing equipment is shown in the blow image: