In 2000, Manko invested in the first dedicated AAMA 2605 powder coat paint line in the United States. This paint line utilizes a multi-stage high tech pretreatment system for proper pretreatment and conversion coating of aluminum extrusions prior to painting. The paint is then electrostatically applied to assure uniform thickness of coating and to eliminate sags, runs, and other series blemishes. Manko chose to implement a powder coat paint line instead of a liquid paint line for a number of reasons, many of which revolve around durability and environmentally responsible materials.
Durability- All architectural powder coatings are thermosetting ensuring superior film integrity
- Powder coating offers superior scratch resistance at around 4H hardness (compared to H for liquid)
- In a taber abrasion test, powder outperformed liquid significantly over 1000 rotations
- In sand abrasion tests, powder outperforms liquid
- Because of the thermosetting properties, the need for replacements and touch-ups is greatly decreased, helping protect against mechanical damage in high use or high traffic areas
- Powder coatings carry improved color and gloss retention
- Contains no/negligible VOCs
- Contains no toxic compounds
- Chrome or non-chrome pretreatment options
- No chrome based primer
- Can be reclaimed and then reused or recycled, resulting in up to a 90% utilization rate
- Single coat application means fewer products are required and reduced change out down time
- Easy, non-hazardous disposal as powder waste is not toxic and does not require landfill or special disposal conditions.
