Epoxy coating is a protective substance which is applied to safeguard the exterior of carbon steel tanks, shielding them from corrosion and external wear. Epoxy coatings are made by mixing two chemicals, epoxide resin and a polymine hardener. They react together and transform from a liquid into a tough, long-lasting solid through a process called curing. This process can last from several minutes to several hours. The common epoxy coating applications include their use in the automotive and aerospace industries, excellent adhesives, robust paints for floors and metals, and even in composite materials like carbon fibre and fibreglass.

The epoxy coatings can be manufactured into powder or liquid coatings. Powder coatings are dry and need heat to cure, while liquid coatings are applied like regular paint. Epoxy coatings are excellent for preventing metal from corroding, providing excellent protection against rust.

 

A] What Is Epoxy Coating?

Epoxy coating is a tough and durable material used to protect and enhance surfaces. The cross-linking between an epoxide resin and a polymine hardener is what gives epoxy coatings their strength and durability. They are resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and impact, and they have excellent adhesion to a variety of surfaces. Epoxy coatings are also resistant to UV radiation, which makes them ideal for outdoor applications.

Epoxy coatings come in various types, each designed for specific purposes. Pure epoxy coating properties are composed of epoxide resin and polymine hardener in close ratios is a preferred choice in industrial and automotive settings, as well as for adhesives and composite materials like carbon fibre and fibreglass. Whereas polyester resins offer a cost-effective alternative, commonly used in marine applications, although they may not withstand heavy loads.

B] Common Applications

In the aerospace industry, the use of adhesives brings forth a multitude of benefits that contribute to improved performance, enhanced safety and greater efficiency. From weight reduction to increased durability, let’s explore the remarkable benefits of adhesives in aerospace manufacturing, design, safety and maintenance:

1. Automotive

Epoxy coatings play a vital role in the automotive industry, where they serve to safeguard and enhance vehicles. These coatings find frequent application in areas such as garage floors and vehicle lifts, protecting the presence of oil, grease, and chemicals. Their dual function of protection and beautification helps maintain the durability and aesthetic appeal of automotive environments, ensuring a clean and safe workspace for both vehicles and personnel.

2. Aerospace

Epoxy coatings play an important role in preventing corrosion and damage on the aeroplanes. The application of epoxy coatings on the interior and exterior surfaces contributes to the longevity and reliability of aircraft, ensuring their structural integrity and safety as they navigate the demands of the aviation environment.

3. Electrical

Epoxy coatings serve as protective layers and insulators for components like transformers and capacitors in electronics. These coatings can flow in the tiny spaces of the electronic devices and protect them from moisture, dust and other environmental factors.

Learn more about the flowable potting epoxy from our latest infographic: Does Your Epoxy Move In The Groove?

C] Epoxy Coating Benefits

Listed below are some of the popular aerospace adhesive applications that play a vital role in the assembly, bonding, and protection of critical components.

1. Durability and Longevity

Epoxy coatings are renowned for their exceptional durability and longevity. When properly applied, they form a resilient protective layer that shields surfaces from damage and degradation over extended periods, reducing the frequency of reapplications and the associated costs.

2. Chemical and Abrasion Resistance

Epoxy coatings provide robust protection against chemicals and abrasions. They are highly resistant to various chemicals, such as acids, solvents, and oils, ensuring that the coated surfaces remain unscathed even in environments with chemical exposure.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

Epoxy coatings offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal. They come in a wide range of colours and finishes, allowing for creative and customized designs. This makes them a popular choice for commercial spaces, and industrial facilities, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the environment.

4. Easy Maintenance

Epoxy-coated surfaces are relatively easy to maintain. Their smooth and seamless finish prevents the accumulation of dirt, dust, and debris, simplifying the cleaning process. Routine maintenance typically involves regular cleaning with mild detergents and occasional resealing, ensuring the surface retains its shine and protective properties.

D] How to Apply Epoxy Coating

1. Surface Preparation

Firstly plan the entire work, how much of the epoxy is required, how you will carry out the procedure and if the substrate is all set. To make sure the epoxy sticks well, it’s important to start with a clean surface that has a bit of texture. If the surface is completely sealed or super smooth, the epoxy might not stick as effectively. So, a slightly porous and clean surface is key for a good bond with the epoxy.

When working with epoxy for the first time, conducting sample mixes is crucial to understanding curing times. For surfaces with a high-gloss finish, you’ll need to sand them down using at least a 150-grit pad to make sure the surface is ready for the epoxy to adhere properly. Most epoxies are low or have no volatile organic compounds (VOC), which is great, but it means that you need to make sure your surface is well-prepped for the epoxy to stick well. And of course, don’t forget to start with a clean surface before you begin using the epoxy resin mix.

2. Application Process

Selecting the right tool is important for proper application of epoxy. Common choices include rollers, brushes, and squeegees, each suited to specific needs and surface types.

Before mixing the epoxy, use the sticky side of the tape to remove any loose fibres from the brush. This quick step minimizes any potential debris on the surface. For optimal results, it’s advisable to use bristle brushes or nap rollers. They offer a clean and even application.

3. Curing and Drying Times

The curing time for epoxy coatings is influenced by factors like the product type and environmental conditions, including temperature and humidity. Opting for thin coats during application fastens the curing process. When excessive epoxy is used in a single application, it might not have sufficient time to cure properly, potentially resulting in issues like cracking or peeling.

4. Safety Precautions

While working with epoxy it’s important to take safety precautions to protect yourself from potential health hazards. Always wear safety gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect against fumes and chemicals. Work in a place with good ventilation to prevent inhaling fumes. Follow the instructions from the epoxy manufacturer carefully.

E] Maintenance and Care

Epoxy coatings are widely used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and more, due to their durability, strength, and chemical resistance. Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity of the epoxy coating in these industries. Here are some guidelines for maintaining and caring for epoxy-coated surfaces in various industries:

1. Cleaning Epoxy-Coated Surfaces

Epoxy coatings exhibit resilience against a wide range of cleaning chemicals. Routine cleaning requires nothing more than basic soap and water. For more stubborn stains, a solution of half a cup of ammonia mixed with a gallon of hot water proves effective. While diluted ammonia works wonders, additional care is required to keep the professional gloss coating in the event of staining.

2. Extending the Lifespan

Regular maintenance is key, with routine inspections to identify any wear, damage, or delamination. Giving proper time during the curing stage encourages longevity across all industries, ensuring that epoxy-coated surfaces remain durable.

3. Repairs and Touch-Ups

When your epoxy-coated surfaces show signs of damage or minor cracks, it’s important to repair them immediately. This can help to maintain their appearance and effectiveness. This typically involves cleaning and preparing the affected area, applying the epoxy product, and making sure it properly blends with the existing coating.

Conclusion

Epoxy coatings have become the go-to solution for a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, and construction. What makes them so popular are their qualities such as durability, incredible strength, and exceptional resistance to chemicals. They provide superior corrosion protection, unmatched adhesion, and flexibility that suits various surfaces. This not only delivers a durable finish but also proves cost-effective in the long run. The beauty of epoxy coatings lies in their low-maintenance nature, requiring minimal repairs, thus solidifying their long-term value.

If you’re in search of bespoke epoxy adhesives for industrial purposes, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kohesi Bond today. We can guide you in finding or creating the perfect epoxy coating solution tailored to your precise specifications.