Many everyday objects may reside indoors. Some may face little to no stress. Others face chemicals and other hazards as part of their workplace. Moreover, a vast array of structural products and their components are placed out of doors in harsh environments. Consider hydro poles, bridges and similar items. Without protective coatings, they would not be able to combat a variety of environmental issues.
What Is a Protective Coating?
A protective coating is a substance applied to a substrate surface with the intent of improving these two essential qualities of the layer:
1. Appearance
2. Protection
While the application makes the component look better than it would without the coating, the more common reason for coating is as a protective measure. Using a protective coating system will improve the ability of the substrate to resist damage from
* Chemicals
* Moisture
* Corrosion
* Environmental hazards
It also helps to enhance the function of a product e.g. non-stick cookware. All these qualities are sought for by various industries who employ them in a variety of applications
Applications for a Protective Coating
Overall, protective coatings help the item retain its integrity by giving them an extra layer of protection. It is employed commonly to cover
* Electrical wiring – This acts to both protect the individual from the flow of the current through the wire as well as the wire from various corrosive environmental hazards
* Cookware – The addition of a protective layer improves the ability of the kitchen items to cook evenly. It allows them to be resistant to sticky food substances. By preventing the need for constant and sometimes harsh washing, the cookware becomes more durable and increases its potential longevity as a useful item
* Roofing – Metal on roofs is often coated with a protective layer. This is to reduce the instances of oxidation – particularly of such metals as tin or aluminum
* Fencing – Metal fences also last longer and are more corrosion resistant if they are coated properly. At the same time, coated fences and rooves simply look better
In all such instances, the purpose of applying a protective coating is clear. While improving its appearance is advantageous, protecting it from various adverse forces is the overall intent.
Protective Coatings
A protective coating goes a long way towards ensuring a product or its components looks better and lasts longer. At the same time, it impedes undesirable rusting and eroding of the function or integrity of the item. Application in industrial uses of protective coatings is another means through which companies are working to produce a high quality and durable product for their customers.
