abril
25
Etiquetas
EcoAL® Improving Quality
Chrome-Free Passivation in Pretreatment Processes for Powder Painting
In an era marked by growing environmental awareness and sustainability concerns, industries are continually seeking innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One such advancement that has gained traction is the shift towards chrome-free passivation in the pretreatment process before powder painting.
Chrome-based treatments have long been a staple in the industrial realm for passivating metal surfaces before coating. Chromium (VI) compounds, particularly hexavalent chromates, have been favored for their corrosion resistance and adhesion-promoting properties. However, the environmental and health hazards associated with hexavalent chromium have led to stringent regulations and a collective drive to find more sustainable alternatives.
In response to the limitations and risks of traditional chromate-based methods, chrome-free passivation has emerged as a safer and more ecologically responsible alternative. The primary aim of this approach is to ensure a high-quality surface finish while minimizing the environmental impact.
Benefits of Chrome-Free Passivation:
- Environmental Preservation: Chrome-free passivation substantially reduces the release of toxic substances into the environment, contributing to the preservation of ecosystems and minimizing pollution. This aligns with the overarching goals of sustainable industrial practices.
- Human Health Protection: The elimination of hexavalent chromium from the process safeguards the health of workers involved in the treatment and painting processes, reducing the risk of exposure-related illnesses.
- Regulatory Compliance: REACH tighten regulations regarding hazardous substances, chrome-free alternatives meet all of REACH requirements
- Resource Efficiency: Chrome-free passivation processes require lower energy consumption and fewer chemical inputs, leading to increased efficiency and reduced operational costs.
- Performance and Quality: Contrary to misconceptions, chrome-free passivation does not compromise the quality of the treated surface. Modern alternatives offer comparable corrosion resistance and adhesion properties, ensuring a high-quality finish for powder painting.
- Innovation and Reputation: Embracing eco-friendly practices like chrome-free passivation can enhance a company’s reputation and promote innovation. Businesses that prioritize sustainability are more likely to attract environmentally conscious clients and partners.
Chrome-Free Passivation from Alsan: EcoAl®20
EcoAl® 20 is a titanium-based chrome-free passivation which combines titanium compounds and selected polymers to create a protective layer on the metal surface with excellent corrosion resistance and adhesion promotion.
EcoAl® 20 can be applied by immersion, cascade or spray. The conversion layer obtained with the EcoAl® 20 allows excellent results on adhesion and corrosion resistance to be obtained with all types of paints and specifically grants great protection against filiform corrosion. With EcoAl® 20, correct conversion layers could be quickly achieved, just with a short time of contact (immersion/spray/cascade), around 10-60 seconds.
EcoAl® 20 was firstly approved by QUALICOAT in 2003 (A-013). Since then, has successfully been used in more than 100 coating lines in 25 different countries. EcoAl® 20 is currently working in 62 coating lines with QUALICOAT certificate around the world and stands out as the second most used solution among the 85 Chrome-free products approved by QUALICOAT. We estimate that, under QUALICOAT certification, more than 120.000.000 square meter of extruded aluminium are treated with EcoAl® 20 every year around the world. EcoAl® 20 has recently been further recognized by obtaining the prestigious license from GSB International, certifying its compliance with the stringent quality standards of GSB AL 631-2 for chemicals used in aluminum pretreatment.
Conclusion
The adoption of chrome-free passivation EcoAl® in the pre-treatment process before powder painting is a significant stride towards ecological excellence in the aluminium industry. By shunning the use of hazardous hexavalent chromium compounds, businesses can not only improve their environmental stewardship but also contribute to cleaner and safer production processes. The shift to chrome-free alternatives is a testimony to the innovative spirit of industries as they seek to balance quality, performance, and sustainability in their operations.
In the year of our company’s 50th anniversary, we reaffirm more than ever our commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. These pillars are essential to ensure the future of our planet and the legacy of generations to come. Our dedication to quality and excellence is reflected in the continuous development of products, such as EcoAl® 20, that are designed to meet the most demanding environmental challenges.
Over the decades, we have taken a proactive responsibility in creating sustainable solutions that not only meet today’s quality standards but also define those for the future. Every improvement we implement in our products is a sign of our long-term vision, focused on the sustainability of the aluminium industry. This is our commitment: to continue to drive excellence in our industry, promoting practices that respect and enrich our environment, thus ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.
Alsan 