High-temperature coatings (HTC) are designed to withstand temperatures ranging from 300° F to over 1,400° F. They safeguard materials from degradation by oxidation and corrosion. Besides, they also improve durability and performance of the equipment. They help reduce thermal fatigue, control corrosion under insulation (CUI), reduce heat losses, and maintain efficiency.
Composed of either organic or inorganic materials, these coatings are often used in industries, such as:
− Power
− Aerospace
− Petrochemical
− Manufacturing
− Construction
− Automotive, and
− Military
The application of HTC translates into cost and energy savings, which means demand for quality products with a proven track record, has been at a consistent high.
The global high-temperature coatings market size was pegged at USD 3.27 billion in 2015 and is expected to reach USD 4.74 billion by 2024, according to findings by
Grand View Research, Inc. Availability of raw material is crucial to most industry participants.
As a result, sourcing these materials at low cost has become a key trend among players. Engaging in long-term partnerships with raw material suppliers also allows them to achieve economies of scale.
Let's understand more about the high-temperature coatings, their main types, advantages and growing market applications...
Widening Application Scope of High-Temperature Coatings
Listed below are the three main types of high-temperature coatings and some of their notable features. Each type has its own set of properties and advantages, which govern its usage in different industries and applications.
#1. Acrylic
−
Acrylic coatings remarkable features such as corrosion-resistance, biocompatibility, antioxidant properties
− These coatings also offer decorative properties such as
gloss and color retention
− Demand for heat-resistant coatings with decorative properties has been on a rise in building and construction as well as transportation infrastructure
− It also presents low volatile organic compound (VOC) content during product formulation
#2. Epoxy
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Epoxy coatings offer high heat and chemical resistance, superior mechanical properties, durability, and strength
− They are widely used as coatings in power generation, refineries, and secondary containment
− These coatings are majorly used in the transportation sector, in corrosion-resistant applications in boats, transmission pipelines, automobiles, and steel pipes
− Their compatibility with a wide range of color formulation and solvent-free ingredients is also particularly beneficial
#3. Silicone
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Silicone coatings can withstand high temperatures over 550ºC and find application in heavy end industries
− HTC made from 100% silicone display properties such as high tensile strength, light-weight, electromechanical resistance, and clarity for transparency
− These make them ideal for high heat applications such as furnaces, exhaust stacks, wood-burning stoves, barbeque grills, and lighting fixtures
− The coatings are also abrasion resistant and can be used as food contact release coatings
Source: Grand View Research
The aerospace and aviation industry has been a prominent end user of high-temperature coatings. These coatings have been known to perform crucial roles in safeguarding:
− Aircraft cabin
− Fuselage
− Aeroengine, and
− Structure from extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and corrosion
Moreover, they take into account the evolving aesthetic demands of business jet owners and commercial airlines. The British Coatings Federation (BTC) adds that complex internal structures where these coatings are used to offer limited access. As a result, some coatings are required to possess long-term corrosion-resistant properties.
HTC can be designed and developed for specific applications. For instance, products have been developed for particular parts of the aircraft fuselage, such as composite engine nacelles. Mankiewicz FlexPrimer is one such product designed to prevent the paint on the nacelle from cracking.
» Continue reading to understand different factors that impact the adoption of high temperature coatings in various regions