Zinc Powder Coating Industry Applications

Paint / Coatings

Zinc Rich Coatings have proven to be an excellent method of protecting steel from corrosion due to the familiar electrochemical process i.e. – galvanic action.

In addition, proper paint formulation will result in the formation of a barrier surface film which retards the effect of aggressive atmospheres on exposed zinc. This can be further supplemented by the proper top coating for added protection and aesthetic effect.

Zinc Rich Coatings fall into two basic categories, organic and inorganic, each having its own particular advantages and limitations. 

In the case of organics, for example, their potential has been widened except in the areas of solvent resistance and high-temperature applications. Organic binders include silicone and silicone alkyd, epoxy and epoxy esters, phenoxy, chlorinated rubber, polystyrene, and styrene-butadiene.

Inorganic systems generally make use of silicates, phosphates, and oxychlorides.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. does not recommend specific formulations but makes available upon request the latest information from their technical files relating to all aspects of the zinc rich coatings field with added assistance from their technical staff when desired.

Zinc Rich Primer is essential for ensuring that the zinc powder coating adheres properly and provides maximum protection. The primer acts as a base layer that enhances the performance and longevity of the zinc powder coating.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. Recommended Zinc Dust grades for Paint / Coatings:

The Chemical Industry

Although the Chemical Industry is constantly changing, zinc dust continues to play an important role in the manufacturing of bleaches for the textile and paper industries.

In addition, it is used as a reducing agent in the production of nitrobenzene, as a catalyst and polymerizing agent and in the manufacturing of other chemicals and drugs. Zinc rich coatings and zinc powder coating may be used in some specialized applications within the industry.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. Recommended Zinc Dust grades for the Chemical Industry:

Hydrometallurgical / Mining Applications

Zinc Dust is used as a precipitant for many metals both to purify solutions containing metals such as copper, cadmium, gold, and silver, and to reclaim these valuable minerals for further processing.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. Recommended Zinc Dust grades for Hydrometallurgical/Mining:

Petroleum and Lubrication Industry

Zinc Dust acts as a catalyst in the production of benzene and gasoline.

Zinc Dust is added to:

• Thread Compounds
• Anti-Seize Compounds
• Special Sealers

In some cases, zinc powder coating might be used to enhance the durability of these products.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. Recommended Zinc Dust grades for Petroleum/Lube:

Friction Applications in Automotive, Rail and Other Transportation

Metal powders are added to friction formulations to change their properties and enhance high-temperature performance – as in automotive brake linings. Zinc Dust can improve high-temp performance.

Zinc Rich Coatings can be used to enhance the performance of these friction materials under high temperatures, and zinc powder coating may also play a role in specific applications.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. Recommended Zinc Dust grades for Friction:

Plating / Mechanical Galvanizing

Mechanical galvanizing is a process of providing a protective coating (zinc) over bare steel. The bare steel is cleaned and loaded into a tumbler containing non-metallic impact beads and zinc dust. As the tumbler is spun, the zinc dust mechanically adheres to the parts. The zinc coating has “good” durability. Some anchors and fasteners can be mechanically galvanized.

Zinc Rich Coatings and zinc powder coating are crucial for achieving a durable finish. Fasteners, bolts, and other connectors often require close tolerances or clean threads. Mechanical galvanizing delivers both the solid protection of zinc and the smoothness and uniformity required for this type of application.

Purity Zinc Metals, Inc. Recommended Zinc Dust grades for Plating / Mechanical Galvanizing:

Other Miscellaneous Uses

Due to its high reactivity and controlled particle size distribution, zinc dust is an important ingredient in:

It is also used in the sherardizing process.

Zinc Dust has also been used in plastics. It can provide hardness and lower abrasion than some other fillers. Zinc rich coatings and zinc powder coating have various applications in this field.