FEATURE
Kerry Pianoforte, Editor
Powder coatings are used in a variety of applications from automotive to OEM appliances and furniture. Powder coatings are enjoying a resurgence in both mature markets such as North America and Europe as new formulations
have been introduced enabling applications at lower temperatures which has allowed for their use on a greater variety of
substrates (See Powder Coatings Shows Strong Growth in
European Coatings Market, Coatings World, May 2014) and
emerging markets that are beginning to enact VOC regulations.
Chemark Consulting Group estimates that the global value for
all types of powder coatings is $7.146 billion.
Axalta has seen increases in powder coating consumption
in the emerging markets where local governments have implemented newer regulations to curb VOC emissions. “Obviously,
we are actively pursuing new opportunities with customers who
are affected by the new environmental guidelines and therefore
want to utilize powder in both existing and new facilities,” said
Bill Sante, global director, marketing and business development,
Powder coating manufacturers focus on enhancing durability and ef;ciency to drive
growth in this diverse market.
The Powder
Coatings Market
Arctic Cat has built a reputation for high-performance sleds for aggressive trail riding and racing. It expects the quality and durability of its coatings to match
the performance of Arctic Cat equipment. They turned to Valspar for design of a coatings system for the exterior of sleds that delivers robust performance year-after-year in extreme outdoor conditions. Valspar powder coatings provide durable, rugged protection on the undercarriage of the sled against a harsh range of
environments and chemicals. Valspar also helped Arctic Cat redesign its coating application process for maximum ef;ciency.