Powder coating

 Thermo-lacquering treatment (according to Standard UNE IN 15773)

At Insametal SA, we are experts in the design, manufacture and assembly of metal protections for bridges and viaducts in railway and road works. We are proud to offer a complete range of protection treatments for our structures, among which, in addition to hot-dip galvanizing, we highlight: thermo-lacqueredBoth processes are essential to ensure that our products not only stand the test of time, but also maintain an impeccable appearance, since when exposed to extreme environmental conditions, it is necessary to ensure their durability and resistance.

What is Thermolacquering?

Powder coating is a coating process in which a resin powder is applied to metal surfaces using electrostatic charging. This powder adheres to the metal and is then cured in an oven at a high temperature, creating a durable and uniform layer. This coating not only protects against corrosion, but also provides a high-quality aesthetic finish, available in a variety of colours and textures, to choose from on the RAL scale.

Our metal protection treatments, and especially our thermo-lacquering, must meet the highest standards of durability and aesthetics.

Thermo-lacquering, carried out according to the UNE EN 15773 standard, has the following standards:

• Surface preparation. UNE EN 15773 sets strict requirements for cleaning and preparing metal before powder coating, ensuring that the coating adheres properly and offers long-lasting protection.

• Coating thickness and uniformity. Defines the minimum thickness of the powder coating, ensuring uniform coverage that fully protects the base metal against corrosion and wear.

• Durability and resistance. The standard defines rigorous tests to ensure that the powder coating is resistant to weather, UV rays and impacts, ensuring its longevity in adverse conditions.

 

Procedure

1. Surface Preparation:
   1. Cleaning and Degreasing: The metal surface must be free of grease, oil, dust, oxides and other contaminants. This is achieved through chemical or mechanical cleaning processes.
   2. Pickling or Sandblasting: If necessary, pickling or sandblasting can be performed to remove oxides and ensure a suitable surface for the coating to be anchored.
   3. Chemical pretreatment: A chemical treatment is applied which may include phosphating or chromating (in the case of aluminium), which improves the coating adhesion and corrosion resistance.
2. Powder Coating Application:
   1. Electrostatic Application: Powder coating is usually applied using an electrostatic spraying process. The electrostatic charge allows the powder to adhere evenly to the metal surface.
   2. Oven Curing: Once the powder has been applied, the piece is placed in an oven at a certain temperature (usually between 160°C and 200°C) to melt and polymerize the powder, forming a uniform and adherent layer.
3. Quality control:
   1. Visual Inspection: A visual inspection is performed to detect surface defects such as bubbles, cracks, and other finishing problems.
   2. Adhesion Testing: Tests are performed to ensure that the coating has good adhesion to the metal surface. This may include shear or tensile testing.
   3. Thickness Tests: It is verified that the coating thickness is within the specified ranges.
   4. Corrosion Resistance Testing: Salt spray chamber tests can be performed to assess the coating's resistance to corrosion.
   5. Hardness and Elasticity Tests: To ensure that the coating has the proper hardness and elasticity, impact and bending tests can be performed.

 

 

Benefits of Thermolacquering

Thermo-lacquering offers multiple advantages that make it ideal for the industrial applications of bridges and viaducts on which INSAMETAL works:

• Superior aesthetic finish. Thermo-lacquering not only protects but also beautifies structures, providing a durable finish that maintains its shine and colour over time.

• Corrosion protection.The coating layer acts as an effective barrier against moisture and other corrosive agents, extending the life of the structures.

• Weather resistance. This coating is highly resistant to climate changes, withstanding everything from intense solar radiation to rain and industrial pollutants.

• Long service life. Thermo-lacquering according to UNE EN 15773 standard provides a useful life of several decades, even in aggressive environments such as coastal or industrial areas.

• Low maintenance.Structures treated with powder coating require less maintenance, which translates into significant savings in long-term operating costs.

Regulations

The regulations to be followed depend on the geographical area. Specifically, in Spain, Spanish regulations must be complied with, which come from European and international regulations (EN… / ISO…):

• UNE-EN 12206-1:2014: Requirements for the application of powder paint coatings on aluminium for architectural use. Includes tests to ensure adhesion, corrosion resistance, impact resistance, among others.

• ISO 9001: Quality management standard, widely used by companies in the sector to ensure the consistent quality of their processes and products.

• UNE-EN ISO 12944-5: Paints and varnishes - Protection of steel structures against corrosion by protective paint systems.

• UNE-EN ISO 14713-2: Zinc coatings - Guidelines and recommendations for corrosion protection of iron and steel structures.

 

Insametal SA's commitment to quality

At Insametal SA, we are dedicated to offering comprehensive solutions that combine functionality and quality. With powder coating according to UNE EN 15773, we ensure that each project is carried out with the highest standards of quality and efficiency. Thus, these structures remain functional and safe for many years, withstanding the demands of rail and road traffic even in the most challenging environments.

We ensure that each project exceeds our clients' most rigorous expectations, offering solutions that not only stand the test of time, but also guarantee the safety and efficiency of our products, such as road railings.

Trust Insametal SA to protect what really matters. Our thermo-lacquering process is the ideal choice for those looking for the perfect combination of durability and aesthetics. Don't put your projects at risk; choose the quality and experience that only Insametal can offer. Contact us and ensure the success of your next project!

You can find more information about our products at www.insametal.es