A Brief Guide to Fluoropolymer Coating
Also known as fluoroplastic coating, fluoropolymer coating safeguards industrial equipment from different external elements by creating a protective layer between the equipment structure and its surrounding environment. These coatings can provide unparalleled protection for industrial components and equipment that operate in harsh environments and conditions.
A fluoropolymer may be defined as a class of thermoplastic, paraffinic polymers where fluorine has replaced some or all of its hydrogen atoms. All fluoropolymer materials are characterised by beneficial properties such as outstanding chemical resistance, weathering resistance, fire propagation resistance, and endurance to high temperatures.
High-performance fluoropolymer coatings are dry-lubricant materials offering remarkably low friction. These coatings are a combination of two extremely capable engineering plastic variants, fluoropolymers with the lowest friction coefficient and high-temperature organic polymers. This is a matrix coating composed of a solid lubricant, a polymer binder, and pigments and fillers. All these materials are suspended in water or an appropriate solvent, and applied by spraying, roller coating, and dip/spinning. This creates a continuous protective film resistant to chipping, abrasion, spalling, cold flow, extreme temperatures, and corrosive environments.
Advantages and Applications:
Fluoropolymer coatings are used extensively for equipment exposed to corrosive substances or harsh environments because of their exceptional corrosion resistance. Whether chemical processing plants, outdoor equipment, or any industrial infrastructure in coastal areas, these coatings can provide reliable protection against corrosion.
Fluoropolymer coatings are also preferred by many for their non-stick properties. Surfaces with these coatings can prevent the build-up of oil, dirt, chemicals, and other contaminants. This property makes fluoropolymer coating ideal for applications that require ease of maintenance and cleanliness, such as medical devices or food processing equipment.
Another extremely useful property of fluoropolymer coating is its thermal stability. They can withstand extremely high temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, retaining all their protective properties. As a result, these coatings are suitable for applications where temperature tends to fluctuate regularly, such as aerospace parts, underwater applications, industrial machinery, electrical components, and automotive parts.
Points to Consider:
Several factors should be taken into account before investing in fluoropolymer coating.
First and foremost, assess your equipment’s specific requirements. Think about the level of protection it will require in its operating environment. It is true that fluoropolymer coatings can offer extraordinary protection, but these qualities must align with the needs of your equipment.
It is also important to take a thorough look at the substrate that needs to be coated. It is possible to apply fluoropolymer coatings to metals, ceramics, and plastics. However, proper adhesion requires specific primer coats or surface preparation techniques for different substrates.
It is also essential to examine the equipment’s performance requirement and determine the thickness, abrasion resistance, and flexibility of the equipment accordingly. By understanding the equipment parameters, it is possible to ensure that the coating is able to provide long-lasting protection.
After any coating is applied, its life can be prolonged by regular inspections and maintenance. Check periodically for damage signs such as peeling, cracking, or chipping. At Coating Management Solutions, we offer a wide spectrum of coating inspection services. Please contact our expert technicians for any requirements related to industrial coatings, fireproofing, insulation, and much more.