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April 30, 2024Why it matters
In the powder coating industry, several myths continue to circulate among fabricators, architects, engineers, and powder coating companies, largely stemming from a lack of understanding. A key strategy for custom coaters to stand out in the competitive market is by joining various associations. These organizations promote best practices in powder coating, offering a long-lasting and durable finish for clients. This approach not only enhances knowledge sharing but also ensures high-quality outcomes, making it essential for businesses looking to excel in powder coating services.
In addition to membership in associations that help with advancing technical best practices, there are also associations that provide guidelines that can be used to measure the performance of coatings; whether through standard test methods that quality powder coatings can be tested against, or even guidance on how to prepare metal to achieve lasting corrosion protection.
It pays to belong: Powder Coating Associations
Two associations that every custom coater should belong to if they are invested in powder coating best practices are the Powder Coating Institute (PCI) and Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI).
Both PCI and CCAI work throughout all levels of the powder coating industry in North America. From small powder coaters near you, to OEM applicators for the automotive marker, all the way to the international powder manufacturers; they have a great reach across the market.
Another great aspect of belonging is there are dozens of companies whose needs are similar and having the opportunity to come together at conferences. PCI will often host round table discussions that focus on troubleshooting, best practices, and new technology .
The PCI Powder Coater's Handbook is an invaluable resource for anyone in the powder coating industry. This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of topics critical to the process of powder coating, from the basics of the powder coating process to advanced techniques and troubleshooting. It details the properties of different powders, application methods, curing practices, and the latest technologies available in the market. The handbook also provides insights into proper workshop safety practices and environmental regulations to ensure that operations meet current standards. For custom coaters looking to refine their skills or solidify their knowledge base, the PCI Powder Coater's Handbook serves as an essential reference tool.
Leveraging CCAI's Resources: Custom Coater Groups and Shop Tours
The Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI) not only facilitates industry-wide standards and best practices but also organizes custom coater groups and shop tours that offer invaluable real-world insights. These groups bring together professionals from various backgrounds within the powder coating community to exchange knowledge, tackle common challenges, and share strategies for business growth and operational efficiency. Similarly, CCAI-organized shop tours provide a unique opportunity for custom coaters to see firsthand how other facilities operate, implement new technologies, and maintain high-quality standards. These experiences encourage continuous improvement and innovation within the industry, helping businesses stay competitive and deliver top-notch services to their clients. By participating in these events, custom coaters can expand their network, learn from peers, and apply new ideas to their operations, enhancing overall quality and performance.
The Evolution from NACE and SSPC to AMPP
The National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) and The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) were both established with the goal of developing standards, certifications, and knowledge to protect assets and infrastructure from corrosion and deterioration. NACE was founded in 1943, focusing primarily on the study of corrosion and its prevention. SSPC, established in 1950, concentrated on the promotion of best practices in the use of protective coatings. Over the years, both organizations have been pivotal in setting the standards for the protection and longevity of materials in the industrial environment.
In 2020, a significant milestone occurred when NACE and SSPC announced their decision to combine forces to form a new organization named the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP). This merger marked the culmination of years of collaboration between the two entities. AMPP was created with a mission to lead the global community in the protection of assets and performance of materials. By consolidating their resources, expertise, and standards, AMPP aims to provide an even more comprehensive framework for professionals in the corrosion and coating industries to enhance the service life of critical infrastructure. The formation of AMPP symbolizes a unified approach to addressing the complex challenges of material protection and performance.
Guidance for Abrasive Blasting from AMPP.
The SSPC standards for abrasive blasting cleanliness are critical benchmarks used within the industry to ensure that surfaces are properly prepared for the application of coatings. These standards, such as SSPC-SP1 Solvent Cleaning, SSPC-SP5/NACE No.1 White Metal Blast Cleaning, SSPC-SP6/NACE No.3 Commercial Blast Cleaning, SSPC-SP7/NACE No.4 Brush-Off Blast Cleaning, and SSPC-SP10/NACE No.2 Near-White Metal Blast Cleaning, detail the degrees of cleaning required for different surface conditions and expected outcomes. For instance, SSPC-SP5/NACE No.1 requires the removal of all visible rust, mill scale, paint, and foreign matter, achieving a white metal appearance, which is the most stringent level of surface cleanliness. These standards help guide professionals in delivering a surface condition that is optimal for the maximum adherence and longevity of protective coatings, thereby prolonging the life and durability of the coated assets.
Understanding ASTM and AWWA Standards in Coating Industry
The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) both play crucial roles in the development and application of standards that impact the powder coating industry and protective coatings for water infrastructure. ASTM, an international standards organization, develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services. Within the realm of coatings, ASTM standards guide the preparation, application, and evaluation of protective layers, ensuring they meet specific requirements for performance and durability. Notably, ASTM’s guidelines are instrumental in setting the quality benchmarks for materials and processes in powder coating, offering a basis for comparison and quality assurance.
AWWA, on the other hand, is focused specifically on ensuring safe and sufficient water supply across North America and beyond. It sets standards for the coating and linings of water storage tanks, water pipes, and other infrastructure that is critical to public health and safety. AWWA standards ascertain that materials and practices used in the water service industry provide effective barriers to protect against corrosion, thereby extending the service life of water infrastructure and ensuring the purity of water supplies. The reliability and integrity of coating materials in water-related applications are paramount, and adherence to AWWA standards guarantees that protective coatings contribute to the longevity and safety of water infrastructure.
In Conclusion
Being a part of associations and adhering to standards in the powder coating industry is not just about following regulations, but it's also about investing in excellence. By joining these organizations and implementing their guidelines, custom coaters can showcase their commitment to delivering quality results to their clients. It allows them to stay up-to-date with the latest technology, techniques, and best practices, ensuring their operations are both efficient and effective. Moreover, these associations provide a platform for professionals to connect, share knowledge and experiences, fostering continuous improvement within the industry.
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