Basic Definition of Color Coated Aluminum
Alluminio rivestito a colori refers to aluminum sheets or coils that undergo a surface treatment process where organic or inorganic coatings are applied to enhance aesthetics, durata, and functionality.
These coatings provide:
- Resistenza alla corrosione
- UV protection
- Customizable colors and textures
Compared to traditional materials like galvanized steel, color coated aluminum is 30% più leggero and offers superior recyclability (Sopra 95% recovery rate). Its versatility makes it ideal for modern architectural and industrial applications.
Common Alloys of Color Coated Aluminum
The choice of aluminum alloy impacts coating adhesion and end-use performance.
Below is a comparison of popular alloys:
| Serie in lega | Common Grades | Caratteristiche chiave |
|---|---|---|
| 1XXX Series | 1050, 1060, 1100, ecc. | Elevata purezza, Eccellente resistenza alla corrosione, good conductivity |
| 3XXX Series | 3003, 3004, 3105, ecc. | Improved strength, Buona resistenza alla corrosione, ideal for roofing and siding |
| 5XXX Series | 5005, 5052, 5083, 5086, 5182, 5454, 5754, ecc. | Alta resistenza, excellent marine and industrial resistance |
| 6XXX Series | 6061, 6063,6082, ecc. | Alta resistenza, good machinability, commonly used in architectural applications |
Why Alloy Matters
- 3003/5052: Preferred for outdoor applications due to corrosion resistance.
- 1100: Economical choice for indoor décor.
Color Coating Process
1. Roller Coating (Coil Coating)
Roller coating is the most common and efficient method for color-coating aluminum.
The process includes:
- Flusso di processo:
- Surface Pretreatment: Degreasing → Chemical conversion coating (PER ESEMPIO., chromium-free zirconium).
- Primer Application: Enhances adhesion (5-10 μm thickness).
- Topcoat Application: Pigmented layer for color/functionality (15-25 μm).
- Polimerizzazione: Oven drying at 200-250°C.
- Raffreddamento & Finitura: The aluminum is cooled, checked for quality, and cut into sheets or coils.
- Vantaggi:
- High-speed production (fino a 200 m/mio).
- Uniform coating thickness (±1.5 μm).
2. Spray Coating
Spray coating is used for complex shapes and structures where roller coating is not practical.
Il processo prevede:
- Applying liquid paint through high-pressure nozzles.
- Multiple layers can be added to achieve the desired finish and durability.
- Curing and drying are required to ensure strong adhesion.
Coating Types and Functions
Three dominant coating technologies dominate the market:
| Coating Type | Proprietà | Lifespan | Applicazioni |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poliestere (PE) | Economico, 5-10 years durability | 7-12 anni | Indoor appliances, mobilia |
| Pvdf | UV-resistant, >20 years weatherability | 20-30 anni | Skyscrapers (PER ESEMPIO., Burj Khalifa) |
| Nano Coating | Self-cleaning, antimicrobial | 15+ anni | Hospitals, trasformazione alimentare |
Key Innovations
- Pvdf + 70% PVDF Resin: Achieves superior gloss retention (ΔE <2 Dopo 10 anni).
- Nano SiO₂ Coatings: Reduce dirt accumulation by 80% in polluted environments.
Core Application Areas
1.Industria delle costruzioni
- Rivestimento architettonico: PVDF-coated panels for the Shanghai Tower.
- Cool Roofs: Reflective coatings reduce building energy costs by 15-20%.
2. Elettrodomestici & Elettronica di consumo
- Refrigerator Doors: Scratch-resistant PE coatings.
- Smartphone Casings: Anodizzato + coated aluminum for EMI shielding.
3. Trasporto
- High-Speed Trains: Fire-retardant coatings (BS 6853 compliant).
- EV Battery Enclosures: Lightweight thermal management solutions.
4. New Energy Field
- Solar Mounting Systems: Coatings prevent PID (Potential Induced Degradation).
Industry Standards and Quality Control
Standard internazionali
- ASTM D5796: Measures coating flexibility (mandates no cracking after T-bend test).
- IN 1396: Specifies adhesion (cross-cut test) and colorfastness for EU markets.
Key Testing Indicators
| Test | Scopo |
|---|---|
| Test di adesione | Ensures paint strongly bonds with the aluminum surface. |
| Salt Spray Test | Evaluates corrosion resistance under humid conditions. |
| UV Resistance Test | Measures durability against sunlight exposure. |
| Impact Test | Assesses resistance to mechanical damage. |
- Dry Film Thickness: 20-30 μm (measured via magnetic induction).
- Salt Spray Resistance: 1,000+ ore (ASTM B117).
- Gloss Retention: ≤5% loss after QUV accelerated weathering.
Certification System
- Iso 9001: Quality management certification.
- Conformità ROHS: Ensures materials are environmentally friendly.
- SGS Testing: Verifies performance according to international regulations.
Conclusione
Color Coated Aluminum is revolutionizing industries by merging estetica, durata, E sostenibilità.
With advancements in eco-friendly coatings (PER ESEMPIO., chromium-free pretreatment) and smart manufacturing (AI-driven defect detection), it is poised to dominate sectors from green construction to electric mobility.
By adhering to stringent standards like ASTM D5796 and leveraging alloys like 5052 or PVDF coatings, manufacturers can deliver solutions that exceed 30-year service life expectations—making it a cornerstone of modern material science.