Once the metal is cleaned, treated, and painted, the strip is rewound into a coil size prescribed by the customer. From there, the coil is removed from the line and packaged for shipment or additional processing.
After the primer is applied and cured, then the metal strip enters the finish coat station where a topcoat is applied. Topcoats provide color, corrosion resistance, durability, flexibility and any other required physical properties. Like primers, the topcoat is cured using thermal cure ovens.
Oven
Coil coating ovens can range from 130 feet to 160 feet and will cure the coatings in 13 to 20 seconds.
During this stage, the strip enters the prime coat station whereby a primer is applied to the clean and treated metal. After the primer is applied, the metal strip travels through a thermal oven for curing. Primers are used to aid in paint adhesion, improve corrosion performance and enhance aesthetic and functional attributes of the topcoat.
S Wrap Coater
The S wrap coater design allows for primers and paints to be applied to the top and back side of the metal strip simultaneously in one continuous pass.
The cleaning and pretreating section of the coil coating process focuses on preparing the metal for painting. During the cleaning stage, dirt, debris, and oils are removed from the metal strip. From there, the metal enters the pretreatment section and/or a chemical coater whereby chemicals are applied to facilitate paint adhesion and enhance corrosion resistance.
Dried-In-Place
In this stage a chemical that provides enhanced corrosion performance is applied. This treatment can be chrome free if required.
The accumulator is a structure that adjusts up and down to store material, which makes continuous operation of the coil coating process possible. This accumulation will continue to feed the coil coating processes while the entry end has stopped for the stitching process. As much as 750 feet of metal can be collected.
Powder coating meets rigid compliance regulations with minimal raw material waste and VOC emissions, making it exceedingly environmentally-friendly.
A popular coating for industrial components, powder coating is the electrostatic application of a dry powder to a surface which is then cured to form a protective layer that prevents destructive materials from penetrating and reaching the surface. It also provides maximum protection against chipping and scratching that can last many years even in harsh conditions. Further, it is available in countless color options to complement any customer application.
While also offering an extra layer of protection to surfaces, galvanizing is instead achieved by adding a layer of zinc coating through a hot dipping process, providing a tough armor to safeguard against rust and corrosion. Galvanized surfaces are thicker and require less maintenance. In addition, galvanizing can be applied quickly, typically costs less than powder coating, and can protect steel surfaces for 50 years or more.
AZZ has been delivering leading corrosion protection to the steel fabrication industry for more than 40 years, ensuring structural assets are corrosion free, safe, and sustainable. Proud to serve the Aerospace and Defense sectors, AZZ maintains certifications in various processes, including ISO 9001, AS9100, and Nadcap. With two strategically located powder coating locations in Texas, AZZ can process items up to 60’ long and can handle parts weighing up to 60,000 lbs.
Watch this video to see Technical Director Tony Pajoohi and General Manager Ed Garza explain how AZZ is creating a stronger, safer world.
FABTECH returns to the Georgia World Congress Center, November 8-10, 2022 and provides a convenient ‘one-stop shop’ venue where you can meet with world-class suppliers, discover innovative solutions, and find the tools to improve productivity and increase profits. There is no better opportunity to network, share knowledge and explore the latest technology, all in one place.
