UV coating
UV coating, in the context of finished tubes and pipes, refers to a protective, polymer-based finish that is cured instantly using Ultraviolet (UV) light.
Process and Purpose
UV coating is an advanced form of powder coating or liquid coating where the polymer resin formulation includes photoinitiators. The process involves:
- Application: The coating (liquid or dry powder) is applied to the galvanized pipe or tube.
- Curing: Instead of requiring a prolonged period in a high-temperature curing oven, the coated material passes under high-intensity UV lamps. The UV energy triggers the photoinitiators, causing the polymer to rapidly cross-link and harden in seconds.
This process is critical for the pipe industry for two reasons:
- Speed: The near-instantaneous curing dramatically increases production throughput, making it highly efficient for continuous processing.
- Durability: When applied over a galvanized surface, the UV coating forms a dual layer, offering superior resistance to environmental factors, abrasion, and chemicals, thus extending the product's lifespan and facilitating delay in white rust formation.