Powder coatings are widely used for the coating of aluminium and contribute to give it its appearance and to protect it from corrosion. Similarly to other building materials, like glass, plastics, ceramic or stainless steel, aluminium requires cleaning operations and a regular maintenance during its service life. To this end, Adapta launches Façade CR-0000.
Regardless of whether they are very high-performance coatings, comparable to those used in the automotive industry, it goes without saying that the latter protect their base coat with a clear coat. Still, no one can expect to park a car for two years off the coast without any cleaning, hoping that with a final cleaning the vehicle will look like the first day. A cleaning protocol that can coincide, just like we do with cars, with the cleaning of the glass of the metal carpentry or the façade is necessary.
To this end, after a long process of research and development, Adapta launched Façade CR-0000, a liquid solution with neutral pH, ideal for the maintenance of powder coated surfaces. This preparation aims to remove the natural limestone that forms on the surface of the coating without damaging or attacking the coating itself. Its main virtue, apart from the recovery of colour, is that its effect can last for months depending on its location or environment. The improvement of its appearance is evident, although in some cases, depending on the degradation of the powder coating and the degree of maintenance performed, it is impossible to recover completely the original colour and gloss.
Satisfactory results in architectural projects
The product was tested in various architectural projects obtaining very satisfactory results in the vast majority of cases, showing a greater impact on those with darker colours. During the tests, it was possible to see that surface cleaning and maintenance play a fundamental role for the durability of the coating. The periodic absence of cleaning operations contributes significantly to increase the risk of corrosion, gloss and colour change.
How and how often to apply Façade CR-0000
Its application is very simple: once the dirt is removed from the profiles, just apply the product gently and evenly on the surface with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. No rubbing and always in the same direction. It is advisable to rinse the surface with plenty of demineralised water after each cleaning operation to avoid watermarks, especially in geographical areas with hard water.
Façade CR-0000 is especially indicated to comply with the cleaning protocols or procedures marked by Qualicoat or the American Architectural Manufacturers Association AAMA specifications.
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Environment
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Frequency of cleaning
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Normal
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12 months
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Tropical
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9 months
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Fitness clubs and swimming pools
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6 months
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Marine or coastal
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3 months
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Industrial
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3 months
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Extremely aggressive
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1 month
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On façades and outdoor applications rain is often enough to effectively clean off the accumulated dirt, depending on the structural design of the elements. Therefore, it is recommended to pay special attention to the most sheltered areas where a greater accumulation of dirt and airborne pollutants is likely to happen. Cleaning should be carried out before a visible amount of dirt accumulates, which will reduce costs and avoid the risk of marks and alterations on the coated surface. If not effectively eliminated, in harsh, industrial or marine environments these accumulations can also be an important focus of localized corrosion.
It is worth to emphasize the importance of cleaning and maintenance of coated surface since the first installation of the powder coated elements. To do so, Adapta strongly recommends:
- To properly protect all elements during on-site transportation and installation processes;
- To plan the work or construction stages, anticipating the installation of these elements in order to avoid splashing mortar, cement or other materials;
- If this is not possible, to protect the elements with passive protection systems such as self-adhesive plastic films.
- To perform a general cleaning prior to the delivery of the work to remove all kind of dirt or contamination such as iron or structural steel chips, residue of scaffolding elements.
- If removal of stains of any type of substance is needed, it is highly recommended to first test the removal product in a hidden area of the element. Do not apply dry or aggressive products.
- To perform maintenance operations in the shade, avoiding extremely cold or warm temperatures.
- If scratches, cuts or punctures are detected on the coating, it is advisable to repair them as soon as possible.
More info: https://www.adaptacolor.com/en/