Metal coating can be used during the manufacturing process to improve integrity, and enhance and protect new metal surfaces before they are put to use. However, you may not know that it can also be used on existing metal structures and parts. So, what is the role of metal coating services in surface restoration?
What Is Metal Coating?
Metal coating is the application of a protective layer or ‘coat’ to any metal surface or component.
Metal coatings (sometimes referred to as ‘finishes’) have multiple purposes. They may be applied to enhance the visual appeal of a metal product, i.e. make it look better or they may be integral to its form and function. For example, some metal finishes can alter the properties of a surface, making it waterproof, resistant to general wear or even altering its electrical conductivity.
There are different types of metal coatings, for example, organic coatings such as paint or inorganic, such as powder coatings. There are also different methods for applying metal coatings to a surface, including HVOF Spraying, Plasma Spraying and Arc Wire Spraying.
How Is Metal Coating Used to Restore Surfaces?
Metal coating isn’t just for newly manufactured metal surfaces, it also has a vital role in surface restoration and can be used to enhance and restore existing metal surfaces or components.
Though metal is an extremely durable material, it can still suffer wear and tear over time. This can alter not only its appearance but also how well it performs or functions.
Metal coating can repair and restore corroded surfaces or structures showing signs of damage or deterioration such as:
- Rust
- Discolouration or fading
- Dents or scratches
- Graffiti
- Flaking, cracking, bubbling or crumbling paint
- Weather damage
- Water damage
- Mineral deposits
- Damage caused by extreme temperatures
- General wear and tear
Metal coatings don’t just cover over worn or damaged surfaces as paint would. Instead, they are used to fully restore and repair the metal.
Before the new coating is applied, the metallic surface will be stripped back and cleaned before being resprayed with the required metal coating using the most appropriate method for that particular surface or component and its usage.
What Are the Benefits of Using Metal Coating Services in Surface Restoration?
There are many advantages to using metal coating to restore surfaces.
Improves Appearance
Using metal coating services to restore surfaces makes them more attractive by removing rust, discolouration, or faded and chipped paint or coatings. This is key for any metal object or component where appearance is as important as functionality. For example, large external structures, visible car parts or building exteriors.
Improves Performance
Metal coatings don’t just alter the look of a surface or component but can affect how it performs too. For example, metal surfaces can be hardened to make them more resistant to wear and tear. They can be lubricated or their electrical conductivity can be improved. The structural integrity of a metal component can be repaired to ensure it remains safe and reliable.
Improves Longevity and Durability
Restoring surfaces through metal coating ensures that they last longer and don’t need to be maintained or repaired as frequently. Coatings can be applied to strengthen metallic surfaces and structures to protect them against wear and tear from the environment or general use so that they can continue to function for longer.
Convenient
Metal spraying is a convenient way to restore and repair surfaces without undue delays or disturbances to your business’ activities. This can reduce your operational costs and make restoration a hassle-free process.
Cost-effective
Metal coating services are a cost-effective method of surface restoration and can reduce the overall costs associated with the ongoing upkeep and repair of metal structures, surfaces or parts. It also helps you to avoid the need for costly replacements.
Metal Coating Services by Alphatek
We hope this has helped to explain the role of metal coating services in surface restoration.
With over a century of cumulative coating expertise, here at Alphatek, we provide expert metal coating services to enhance and restore surfaces.
To find out more about the services we offer, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can also call 01706 821021 or email postbox@alphatek.co.uk to speak to a member of our friendly team.
If you’d prefer to visit us in person, you can find us 20 miles north of Manchester. Please check out our opening times when planning your visit to Alphatek.
