SCT can also advise on the most cost-effective, custom automated spray solutions for industrial coatings and painting of heavy machinery and equipment.

Applying industrial coatings to machinery and equipment

Industrial coatings protect surfaces from corrosion and wear. They extend equipment lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.

They may also add aesthetic value to components or units.

Just some examples of equipment that benefits from industrial spray painting and coating are:

• drums, mixers and tanks
• chutes
• centrifugal pumps and valves
• electrical housings and cabinets
• heavy-duty construction, mining and agricultural equipment
• shipping containers
• pump room equipment.

Choosing spray equipment for industrial coatings

Selecting the right type of coating, as well as appropriate spray equipment, is critical to achieving the best industrial coating results.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing industrial coating equipment:

• coating type
  Most industrial coatings, like epoxies, are thick (or high in viscosity) and do not flow easily. Applications typically require spray equipment with a high pressure pump and suitable tip size and flow rate.
• operating conditions
  Temperature, humidity and proximity to hazardous items or materials can inform as to the best industrial spray equipment for the conditions.Pneumatic spray guns, for example, are more effective in warm rather than cold temperatures. Similarly, electric powered spray equipment is ideal for hazardous operating environments.
• maintenance requirements
  Spray equipment that is easier to maintain is more productive. Ideally, working components should be accessible, replacement parts readily available (and not too pricey) and maintenance tasks possible with the usual tools in the toolbox.
• agility
  Agility, or the capacity to move quickly and easily around the job site, can be hampered by equipment carts or spray gun pump size. While spray equipment with a large pump might achieve an optimal application rate, it can be awkward in terms of operator movement.
• cost
  Cost is always a consideration – although it makes sense to balance the initial price of a spray solution against potential longer-term savings as a result of higher efficiency and productivity. This applies especially in relation to an automated solution for high volumes of coating work.

Is powder coating the best option?

It depends. Powder coating typically achieves a thicker and arguably somewhat more resilient coating than a traditional spray unit.

However, powder coating requires a plant, which needs significant up-front capital. The size of the components that can be coated is limited because they have to be baked (and so must fit inside an oven).

Also, powder coating is less flexible than spraying in terms of colour choice, and doesn’t as readily support touch-up work.

The intended application and your budget will help determine which is the best solution.

Advantages of automation for industrial coatings

Potentially, automating any part of a coating and finishing process can improve productivity, save on labour and reduce waste. Return on investment will depend on the volume of coating required, along with other situation-specific factors.

Contact us at SCT for advice on the best and most cost-effective spray painting equipment for heavy machinery and industrial coatings, or advice on an automated solution.