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Customers today demand higher quality and durability from the products they buy. Not only do they expect these products to perform well, but they want the finish to look good for a much longer period of time. As a "custom coater," MetoKote continually helps customers meet this challenge by offering a full array of finishing processes. These processes center around three primary coating technologies - powder coating, electrocoating (e-coat) and liquid painting. By providing this range of finishing processes, MetoKote creates the flexibility to combine different coating materials and technologies in innovative ways.
MetoKote's three coating technologies compliment each other to satisfy different requirements. Powder coat and e-coat offer the qualities of excellent performance and durability. Yet, there are projects where liquid paint materials provide features not available from either powder or e-coat.
There is a variety of chemistry that makes up liquid paint for various applications. The utilization of the most appropriate chemistry and application technique is a science in itself. MetoKote acknowledges the various reasons to choose liquid paint.
Color change capability is a major advantage of liquid paint. For example, it is not practical to change the color of e-coat on a regular basis. Some color changes can be performed with powder coating, but the process is sometimes cumbersome. Liquid systems, on the other hand, can be easily designed for quick color changes in one booth. In addition, with liquid paint, the color can be mixed on site to given specifications.
Liquid paints can be formulated for use as a primer with special corrosion inhibiting additives. Some formulas are designed for use as an intermediate coat with special fillers to build thickness and provide a smooth surface in preparation for topcoating. Other formulas are designed for use over the intermediate coating as a base color coating with special pigments and metallic elements for special effects. There are also hard, clear formulas made for final topcoating, which provide a deep luxurious appearance as on automobile bodies and exterior components.
A liquid painting system with the appropriate supporting equipment, such as the treatment system for process chemicals, represents a significant capital and staffing investment. For low to moderate production volumes, outsourcing is an easy decision. It is the cost-effective way to obtain the advantages of a professional liquid paint application. However, when production volumes reach the levels which could justify an in-house system, the outsource decision for liquid paint becomes more than a normal "make or buy" decision, it is also a strategic decision. It means, becoming a coater. Considering an in-house coating system brings new meaning to the strategic question, "What is our business?"
Here are a few of the advantages of outsourcing with MetoKote:
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 Project Analysis: MetoKote will assist with development and then support the most effective process to meet and exceed the customers' goals.
Building and Equipment: MetoKote can design, build and manage these facilities for maximum efficiency specific to the customer's product.
Coating Application: MetoKote team members are highly trained and focused on total custom coating system management.
Parts Handling: MetoKote is experienced in packaging, logistics, assembly, inventory control, masking and specialized fixturing.
Long-term Management: MetoKote's unique "bundle" of skills related to painting technologies allows the customer to focus on their core business without the worries of operating a coating facility.
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When a MetoKote coating specialist consults with an industrial customer, the exact coating solution may not be simply one technology, but might consist of one or more coating applications. Liquid paint can be used in combination with another technology such as electrocoating or powder coating. The capability to coat with liquid paint truly makes MetoKote a full service custom coater.
The techniques used in the application of liquid paint, as a production process, are often considered an art form. MetoKote's liquid paint lines utilize the most modern techniques available. Some techniques are:
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Utilizing the Latest Liquid Coating Application Equipment
Controlling the Coating Process for Consistency
Gaining Optimum Results in Liquid Paint Quality
Closely Controlling Material Utilization
Conforming to All Environmental Considerations Regarding Liquid Paint |
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Liquid paint features cure temperature versatility. Unlike e-coat or powder coat, liquid paint can be applied to completely assembled equipment such as large construction or material handling products. Some liquid paint formulas can be cured at room temperature or have the cure time reduced by exposure to a bake oven. An additional advantage to liquid painting these products is that masking is more feasible than with most other coating technologies. Recent advancements in liquid paint have resulted in some unique formulas. For example, the liquid paint used on automotive exhaust system components is formulated to withstand very high operating temperatures. Another specialized application is the material used to coat writing pen barrels. After curing, this material develops a surface that has a "soft-feel" texture. MetoKote meets the needs of these special applications by designing and building in-house coating systems.
MetoKote offers liquid painting services in several different states within the U.S. and also in global locations. Other technologies such as electrocoating and powder coating are available at certain locations.
Call the MetoKote Corporate Marketing Office (419-996-7800) for a brochure showing a map of plant locations and a chart of services offered.
Regardless of the size of the coating program, MetoKote services should be considered. MetoKote is known for the capabilities of its internal Technology Group, Equipment Division and experienced operating teams. These capabilities have earned MetoKote a reputation for providing a total, integrated, cost-effective coating solution.
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