The partnership between AkzoNobel and IPG Photonics is set to reshape efficiency and sustainability standards in the powder coating industry.
The international paints and coatings supplier AkzoNobel
has announced a strategic partnership with IPG Photonics to introduce an innovative laser-based curing process for powder coatings, marking a significant step forward in coating technology.
The collaboration focuses on fine-tuning AkzoNobel’s Interpon powder coating formulations to work seamlessly with IPG Photonics’ cutting-edge laser systems. The result is a curing process that is significantly faster, as well as far more energy-efficient
than conventional thermal methods.
“This is a hugely exciting partnership which has the potential to offer customers game-changing benefits in terms of process speed, efficiency and energy savings. It’s yet another example of how our commitment to painting the future is driving our innovation so we can help make the powder coatings industry even more sustainable,” has stated Jorrit van Rijn, Global Marketing Director of AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings business.
Unlike conventional ovens, which heat the entire surrounding environment and lead to significant energy loss, IPG’s laser technology focuses solely on the coated surface in what is known as a cold oven setup. This method minimises energy waste, eliminates heat exposure
on the factory floor, and drastically shortens curing times—from the typical 15 to 20 minutes to just a few minutes. Furthermore, the compact design of the laser curing system occupies less than half the space required by traditional curing ovens.
“We are delighted to partner with the EMEA powder coatings leader to accelerate market acceptance of our game-changing modular laser curing solutions. By aligning our laser innovations with AkzoNobel’s Interpon powder coatings capabilities, we anticipate a shorter time to market and added value for our customers. Together, our companies will realize a new level of efficiency and value for the powder coatings industry,” has added Trevor Ness, Senior Vice-President, Global Sales and Strategic Business Development at IPG Photonics
Laser curing offers significant advantages, including precise heating of the coating without impacting the substrate
- making it ideal for temperature-sensitive materials. It removes the need for lengthy cool-down periods, reduces energy waste and cuts curing times to just a few minutes. In high-volume production settings, it can reduce both capital and operating costs by more than 50%, while also dramatically lowering energy consumption and carbon emissions, all within a footprint considerably smaller than that of traditional ovens.