TAGS: Powder Coatings Architectural Coatings
AkzoNobel and BYK-Gardner are working together to digitally measure and control the textured surfaces of powder coatings.
Checking Quality of Textured Powder Coating Surface
The spectro2profiler represents a major step forward for the industry because currently, the only way to check the quality of a textured powder coating surface is to carry out a visual inspection. So, the new tool – which can measure color and gloss, as well as analyzing the 3D topography of the surface texture – is being hailed as a game-changer.
“We’re excited to have achieved an innovation milestone,” explains Pim Koeckhoven, technology director for color at AkzoNobel. “
Being able to objectively evaluate the structural quality of a powder coating – in a consistent, precise and standardized way – using a dedicated digital tool will be a huge step forward.”
Adds Jean-Paul Moonen, architectural segment manager for AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings business, “
Texture is an extremely important feature of powder coatings and the trend towards textured surfaces is getting stronger all the time, especially in the architectural segment, where both coarse and fine textures are used.”
Having previously collaborated on a digital device for AkzoNobel’s Vehicle Refinishes business – which is now the go-to color measuring tool in the automotive industry – the two companies began working on the new spectro2profiler. The aim was to take what they had already learned for leather-like surfaces and use it to explore the possibilities of digitizing the surface texture of powder coatings.
Obtain Objective Quality Control with Highly Accurate Measurements
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We started researching prototypes two years ago,” continues Koeckhoven.
“Combining our knowledge with BYK-Gardner has enabled us to obtain objective quality control based on highly accurate measurements which just can’t be achieved with the naked eye. We are currently testing and optimizing this in our manufacturing facilities. It’s hugely exciting and we expect that soon, this digitization method will also be able to support our formulation activities.”
AkzoNobel supplies powder coatings to customers worldwide, covering market segments ranging from domestic appliances, architecture and automotive, to furniture, IT and general industrial applications.
Source: AkzoNobel