Steel is one of the most commonly used materials in a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, and aerospace. However, steel is susceptible to corrosion, which can significantly reduce its lifespan and structural integrity. To prevent corrosion, steel is often coated with a protective layer. Here we will discuss the various types of steel coating application apparatus that are used to apply protective coatings to steel surfaces.
Spray Guns
Spray guns are one of the most commonly used steel coating application apparatus. These guns use compressed air to atomize the coating material into small droplets that are then sprayed onto the steel surface. Spray guns are suitable for applying a wide range of coatings, including solvent-based and water-based coatings.
Advantages of Spray Guns:
- Easy to use
- Provides even coverage
- Can be used to apply a range of coatings
- Can be used to apply coatings to complex shapes
Disadvantages of Spray Guns:
- Can be messy
- Requires regular cleaning
- Can result in overspray
Click here for more information on spray guns.
Electrostatic Spray Guns
Electrostatic spray guns use a high voltage charge to charge the coating material as it is sprayed onto the steel surface. This charge attracts the coating material to the steel surface, resulting in a more even and consistent coating.
Advantages of Electrostatic Spray Guns:
- Provides even coverage
- Reduces overspray
- Suitable for applying a wide range of coatings
Disadvantages of Electrostatic Spray Guns:
- More expensive than traditional spray guns
- Requires regular cleaning
Rollers
Rollers are a simple and cost-effective method for applying coatings to steel surfaces. Rollers use a paint roller to apply the coating material to the steel surface.
Advantages of Rollers:
- Simple and easy to use
- Suitable for applying coatings to large surfaces
- Less expensive than spray guns
Disadvantages of Rollers:
- Can result in uneven coverage
- Limited to applying coatings to flat surfaces
- Can be time-consuming
Brushes
Brushes are another simple and cost-effective method for applying coatings to steel surfaces. Brushes are suitable for applying coatings to small areas or surfaces with complex shapes.
Advantages of Brushes:
- Simple and easy to use
- Suitable for applying coatings to small areas or complex shapes
- Less expensive than spray guns
Disadvantages of Brushes:
- Can result in uneven coverage
- Can leave brush marks
Dip Coating
Dip coating involves immersing the steel surface into a tank of coating material. The coating material adheres to the steel surface as it is removed from the tank.
Advantages of Dip Coating:
- Suitable for applying coatings to complex shapes
- Provides even coverage
Disadvantages of Dip Coating:
- Limited to applying coatings to small parts
- Requires a large amount of coating material
- Can be messy
Overall, there are several types of steel coating application apparatus available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of which method to use will depend on the specific requirements of the application, such as the size and shape of the steel surface, the type of coating material, and the desired level of coverage.
If you have technical questions about what equipment you should use, please call us on 1800 819 585 or email helpdesk@aicoatings.com
