When it comes to protecting metal surfaces, painting and coating practices are essential. However, many traditional methods can leave a heavy environmental footprint.
From hazardous waste to water consumption, the impact on the planet is something that shouldn’t be ignored.
Enter powder coating—a game-changing alternative that combines superior performance with a lighter environmental impact.
And at National Industries, we’re taking it one step further with our closed-loop water filtration system. Here’s how powder coating is making waves as an environmentally conscious choice for metal protection.
Why traditional coating methods fall short
While traditional liquid paint has its merits, it often comes with drawbacks:
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Traditional paints release VOCs into the air, contributing to air pollution and health hazards. Powder coating emits near-zero VOCs, significantly reducing its impact.
- Hazardous waste: The leftover solvents, overspray, and contaminated water from liquid paints often require specialised disposal methods to avoid harming the environment.
- High water usage: Liquid painting processes, especially in large-scale industries, can be water-intensive.
These days, with our understanding of environmental damage greatly improved, and a lot of pressure on companies to ensure they minimise their footprint, old fashioned painting just doesn't seem to cut it.
The powder coating advantage
Powder coating is not just a durable and visually appealing finish; it’s also a more sustainable option... and uses a lot more interesting technology!
- Zero solvents: Powder coating uses an electrostatic application process, so it doesn’t require the solvents used in liquid paint. This eliminates VOC emissions entirely.
- Minimised waste: Overspray from powder coating can be collected and reused, reducing waste.
- Lower energy use: Modern curing ovens are more energy-efficient than ever, further reducing the environmental footprint.
Closed-loop water filtration
At National Industries, we’ve implemented a closed-loop water filtration system to tackle one of the most significant challenges in industrial coating: water waste.
Here’s how it works:
Water used in the cleaning and pre-treatment stages is continuously recycled through our filtration system.
This process dramatically reduces water consumption — studies show that closed-loop systems can save up to 90% of water used in industrial applications.
By keeping potentially harmful contaminants out of natural waterways, we’re protecting local ecosystems.
Powder coating in numbers
The VOCs emitted by powder coating are negligible compared to painting.
Powder coating can reduce energy consumption by up to 30% in comparison to traditional liquid paint processes.
Using powder coating can extend the lifespan of metal products by up to 20 years, reducing the need for replacements and conserving resources.
Why sustainability matters
As the world becomes more focused on sustainable practices, industries must adapt. Powder coating offers businesses and individuals the ability to protect their metal assets while minimising environmental harm. When paired with innovations like closed-loop water filtration, the process is not just greener — it’s smarter.
At National Industries, we’re committed to combining performance with responsibility. By choosing powder coating with us, you’re choosing a solution that looks great, lasts longer, and helps the planet.
For more on our processes or to get a quote, contact us today.