Certain projects demand special powder coating colours that offer a different aesthetic than standard matt or gloss colours. When you apply special powder coating finishes to architectural aluminium, curtain walling, windows and doors, you provide a look and feel to the metal building elements that can create a unique aesthetic and a broader palette of colours. The powder coating process has transformed the durability and choices available to architects and building designers.
Special powder coating colours: An Overview
At its core, powder coating is a type of dry finishing process that has been popular since the 1960s. Accounting for a significant part of the finishing market, this method of colouring and protecting aluminium has greatly impacted countless industries, including architecture.
The process starts with a fine powder made up of pigment and resin particles. This powder is electrostatically charged and sprayed onto the surfaces of the objects to be coated. The charged powder particles adhere to the electrically grounded surfaces until the powder is heated and fused into a smooth, uniform coating in a curing oven. The result is a high-quality, durable, and corrosion-resistant finish that is far superior to conventional paint.
Architectural Applications of Powder Coating
Powder coating is a finish and an enhancement that brings resilience and beauty to architectural designs. It’s extensively used in various architectural elements for both interior and exterior applications. The components range from powder coating for aluminium extrusions for windows, doors, and facades to metallic structures like railings, light fixtures, and cladding panels.
What sets powder coating apart is its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. It’s incredibly resistant to fading and chalking, even under extreme ultraviolet exposure. This makes it perfect for outdoor architectural elements that must endure varying weather conditions while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
Customization in Powder Coating: Addressing Unique Project Requirements
The extent of customisation provided by special powder coating colours is substantial. Here are just some special colours available:
The new Echelon colours by Syntha Pulvin
How powder coating provides scratch-resistance.
Specialist finishes for coating wood.
Special powder coating colours creating metallic effects
These are just some of the special powders and effects that can turn an architect’s or client’s design into a reality, even with very specific and unique requirements.
- Colour and Finish Variety: The range of colours and finishes is virtually limitless with powder coating. The powder can be created in any colour, and finishes can range from high gloss, semi-gloss, and matte, to textures like smooth, wrinkled, and rough. Custom colour matching is also possible, enabling architects to achieve the exact shade they envision.
- Special Effects: Apart from a broad colour palette, powder coating also allows for unique effects, such as metallic or glitter, antique, iridescent, and even clear finishes. These options add an extra layer of depth and character to architectural elements.
- Performance Properties: Powder coatings can also be customized for specific performance properties. For example, some projects may require increased resistance to corrosion, better durability, enhanced grip, or anti-microbial properties. Powder coating can be formulated to meet all these needs.
- Environmental Responsibility: For environmentally-conscious projects, powder coating is a winning choice. It is solvent-free, making it more eco-friendly than traditional wet paint. Any unused or overspray powder can be collected and reused, minimizing waste. Plus, powder coating has no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring a healthier environment.
The degree of customization that powder coating offers is a powerful tool for architects and designers. By understanding these specifics, professionals can fully exploit the potential of powder coating, matching their unique project requirements while offering durable and aesthetically pleasing architectural elements. Indeed, the powder coating process, with its myriad of applications and possibilities, has redefined the approach to finishing in architecture.
We can help you achieve the perfect finish for your building design at Superior Paint and Powder Coating. Contact us for more information and discuss your project with a member of our specialist team.