Methods of Coating

Hot Dip Galvanizing

Process After chemical cleaning steel is immersed in a bath of molten zinc at about 450 deg C. An alloying reaction takes place between the steel and zinc forming several layers of protective coating.
Strenghts Factory controlled process, independent of weather conditions or site variability. All edges and insides are fully protected. When the coating is damaged, it "self heals". The only coating with this property. Often described as the 'honest coating'. If it appears galvanized, it is!
Weaknesses Only available in one colour. Can only be carried out in galvanizing factory, and hence restricted to bath capacity.
Durability In the most severe environments about 40 years, but 60 to 130 years can be expected in normal environments
Cost £7-10 per m2, dependent on weight, size and quantity of material
Heath & Safety Reduces onsite issues of scaffolding, etc Factory controlled process.
Enviromental Process controlled by PPC legislation. By-products of process are fully recyclable
Zinc is recyclable.

Polyester Powder Coating

Process After spray or dip based chemical pre-treatment, parts are electrostatically sprayed with powder and oven cured
Strengths Hard, abrasion resistant, Varying gloss levels and finishes available, Good UV resistance for exterior applications, No Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Varying textures and finishes available., No drips or runs like wet paint, Factory controlled process
Weaknesses On site application not possible
Durability 25 Years
Cost £10-20 per m2, dependent on weight, size, colour, texture and quantity of material
Heath & Safety No toxicity, or contamination issues, No on site congestion
Enviromental No VOCs, No site contamination, Water based, TGIC free (TGIC = triglycidyl isocyanurate)

Nylon Powder Coating

Process After chemical pre-treatment, powder is electrostatically sprayed then oven cured.
Strengths Glossy tough coating, Outstanding adhesion, High resistance to oils and solvents
Low coefficient of friction, Warm to the touch
Weaknesses Cannot be over coated
Durability 10 Years
Cost £20-25 per m2 dependent on weight, size, colour, texture and quantity of material
Heath & Safety No onsite congestion
Enviromental No site contamination

Zinc Rich Primer

Process Generic name for a range of primers. Can be brush, roller or spray applied
Strengths Zinc metal containing gives good corrosion protection.
Weaknesses Depends on paint system used over the top. (required) No self healing, etc
Durability Depends on topcoat.
Cost £10- 15 sq m on its own (zinc expensive)
Heath & Safety Standard site issues
Enviromental Standard site issues