For nearly 50 years, ABCO has provided automated manufacturing solutions and manufacturing services to manufacturing locations in the United States. Our strategy has been to add capacity and capabilities through well planned investments so we can improve deliveries, lower costs, and increase the quality of the products we make for our customers. ABCO’s latest investment is a powder coating line which is now fully operational.
Powder coating is a dry finishing process used to apply a protective and decorative coating to metal and other materials. Powder coating offers several advantages over traditional wet paint, making it a popular choice for many applications. ABCO invested in a powder coating line to reduce delivery times and improve quality for our Contract Manufacturing customers. Here are some key benefits of ABCO’s powder coating process:
Durability
- Resistance to Damage: Powder coatings are generally more resistant to chipping, scratching, and wear compared to wet paint.
- Corrosion Protection: They provide excellent protection against corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor applications and harsh environments.
Environmental Impact
- Lower Emissions: Powder coatings emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) compared to wet paints, making them more environmentally friendly.
- Minimal Waste: The overspray from powder coating can be collected and reused, significantly reducing waste.
Efficiency
- Single-Coat Application: Powder coatings often require just one coat to achieve a thick, even finish, whereas wet paint might need multiple coats.
- Fast Curing: Powder coatings cure quickly in an oven, leading to faster production times compared to the drying times required for wet paint.
Cost-Effectiveness
- Long-Term Savings: The durability of powder coatings can lead to lower maintenance and replacement costs over time.
- Reduced Labor Costs: The efficiency of the powder coating process can reduce labor costs associated with application and drying.
Aesthetic Versatility
- Variety of Finishes: Powder coatings come in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, allowing for greater aesthetic flexibility.
- Uniform Appearance: The electrostatic application process helps achieve a uniform and consistent finish without drips or runs that can occur with wet paint.
Safety
- Non-Flammable: Unlike many liquid paints, powder coatings are non-flammable, reducing the risk of fire during application and storage.
- Reduced Health Hazards: The absence of solvents and reduced VOCs result in a safer working environment for applicators.
Application Versatility
- Wide Range of Materials: Powder coating can be applied to a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, glass, and MDF (medium-density fiberboard).
- Thicker Coatings: Powder coatings can be applied more thickly than wet paint without running or sagging, providing enhanced protection.
These benefits make powder coating a preferred choice in many industries, including automotive, architecture, appliances, and consumer goods and for many of ABCO Automation’s customers. If you would like to learn more about ABCO’s Contract Manufacturing and Build To Print Services, please contact us today.
About ABCO Automation
For nearly five decades, ABCO Automation has earned the trust of our customers as a go-to partner for Custom Automation Solutions, Robotic Automation, Contract Manufacturing, Standard Product Solutions, and Engineering Services. An employee-owned, North Carolina-based corporation, ABCO is driven by improving the profitability and quality of life for our customers and their teams through innovation and technology advancements. For more information, please contact ABCO Automation at media@goabco.com.
