This article explores the significance of paint coatings, including decorative and industrial coatings, as well as advancements in robotics and the industry’s dedication to sustainability.

Paint coatings have become indispensable daily, supporting various functions and sectors. Coatings are essential in everything from improving aesthetics to preserving critical assets. Let’s examine the importance of decorative and industrial coatings, robotics breakthroughs, and the industry’s dedication to sustainability.

Paint coatings have become essential to our lives, serving various purposes and catering to different sectors. They enhance the appearance of surfaces, protect valuable resources, and provide durability. As emphasised by Prof. A.S. Khanna, President of SSPC India, decorative coatings add colour and personality to our living and working spaces while offering strength and longevity. The selection, preparation, and application process are crucial for achieving long-term satisfaction with these coatings.

On a global scale, decorative coatings hold a significant share of the paint market, contributing to visually appealing environments. On the other hand, industrial coatings cater to industries such as transportation, manufacturing, marine, and packaging, addressing specific needs like corrosion protection and durability.

Industrial coatings involve using different resins, such as alkyd, acrylic, polyester, epoxy, and polyurethane-based resins. Fortified with unique pigments and additives, high-performance coatings are designed to withstand harsh conditions and provide increased thickness and endurance. The coating system’s effectiveness relies on proper surface preparation, primer application, intermediate coat, and top coat.

In parallel with coatings advancements, robotics has revolutionised the painting process. Venkataramanan R, Business Line Manager- Paint Process Automation, Robotics and Discrete Automation, ABB India, explains ABB, a leading robotics manufacturer, recognises the value of incorporating robotics in the coating industry. Robots offer precise programming for consistent and accurate paint application, improving uniformity and speed.

Sustainability is a key focus in the industry, and ABB has made significant advancements in eco-friendly coating processes. Automation has increased paint transfer efficiency, reduced volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and greenhouse gas emissions. ABB’s AbilityTM Connected solutions, powered by IoT technology, contribute to efficiency, cost reduction, and decreased energy consumption.

Nilesh Adkar, Application Engineering Manager for General Manufacturing & Maintenance at Henkel Adhesives Technologies India Pvt. Ltd., recognises the need for durable and sustainable protection of industrial assets. Their hybrid technology, Loctite PC 7223, combines epoxy and silicone to provide superior corrosion resistance, excellent adhesion, and enhanced UV resistance.

The world of paint coatings is fascinating, offering benefits beyond aesthetics. With decorative coatings enhancing spaces and industrial coatings protecting valuable assets, the possibilities are endless. Integrating robotics and the industry’s commitment to sustainability ensures a bright future for coatings.

Spokespersons and Quotes:

Decorative coatings add colour and personality to our spaces. – Prof. A.S. Khanna, President, SSPC India

Robotics automation improves productivity, quality, and safety in coatings. – Venkataramanan R, Business Line Manager- Paint Process Automation, Robotics and Discrete Automation, ABB India

Loctite PC 7223 provides superior corrosion resistance in challenging environments. – Nilesh Adkar, Application Engineering Manager, Henkel Adhesives Technologies India Pvt. Ltd.