Direct-To-Metal (DTM) is a type of paint or coating used on metal surfaces. Direct-To-Metal coatings, are applied directly onto a metal substrate without the use of a primer beforehand. Direct-To-Metal coatings have an acrylic composition that allows them to successfully adhere to a metal surface when directly applied.
Direct to metal (DTM) coatings are becoming more popular in many industrial setting mainly because they enable high quality coatings to be applied directly to a metal substrate without the use of a primer. They are applied by spray, brush, roll, or coil coating.
This technology eliminates time consuming preparation which includes cleaning, pre-treating, and sealing.
The use of a single coat of product has several other benefits but perhaps most notably, fewer coats of paint translate directly into cost savings. This is achieved without having to sacrifice the quality of the protection provided.
Some of DTM’s other key advantages include:
1. Improved Productivity
Use of a single coating means your entire project can be completed in virtually half the time, plus there is also no lengthy curing period.
2. Superior Adhesion
With so many different metals and alloys, it is easy to make a mistake with regard finding right product for right substrate. DTM coatings are formulated for superior adhesion, reducing the risk of coating failure. Some DTM products can also be used with pre-treatments.
3. Corrosion Protection and Water Resistance
DTM coatings are optimised to resist corrosion and oxidisation and support longevity. They can also be highly hydrophobic and decrease the weathering risks associated with various metals and alloys.
4. Enhanced Longevity
DTM coatings require minimal maintenance and are easy to keep up-to-date. High resistance to abrasion means they are unlikely to suffer damage that harms overall coating performance. Maintenance cleaning and recoating can take as little as a few minutes.
5. Relative Ease of Application
DTM coatings are generally quite simple to apply and do not need specialised equipment.
6. Environmental Sustainability
DTM coatings have been developed in part as a response to the growing emphasis on reducing volatile organic compounds.
DTMs are suitable for use on marine equipment, aluminium, cold rolled steel, hot rolled steel, and most common coated metals.
The variety of DTM coatings is increasing all the time. It is available as solvent-borne, waterborne, or high solid solutions, with formulas including one- or two-component acrylic, epoxy, urethane, or self-curing unsaturated polymers.
[Source: www.performance-painting.com]
Chemgrit Coatings supplies a chlorinated rubber which is used in direct to metal coatings. For information on this and other raw materials for the paints and coatings industry contact Chemgrit Coatings on www.chemgritsa.co.za or nade@chemgritsa.co.za.