Thanks to a joint collaboration, AkzoNobel and BYK-Gardner launched spectro2profiler, a new instrument to check the quality of a textured powder coating surface, measuring colour and gloss, and analysing the 3D topography of the surface texture.
AkzoNobel and BYK-Gardner. have developed a pioneering technology, which can digitally measure and control the textured surfaces of powder coatings.
spectro2profiler, launched on April 10, can measure colour and gloss, as well as analysing the 3D topography of the surface texture. This new tool represents a major step forward for the industry because currently, to check the quality of a textured powder coating surface it is necessary to carry out a visual inspection.
"We're excited to have achieved an innovation milestone," explains Pim Koeckhoven, Technology Director for Color at AkzoNobel. "Being able to objectively evaluate the structural quality of a powder coating - in a consistent, precise and standardized way - using a dedicated digital tool will be a huge step forward."
"Texture is an extremely important feature of powder coatings and the trend towards textured surfaces is getting stronger all the time, especially in the architectural segment, where both coarse and fine textures are used. As the world's leading supplier of powder coatings, having this tool available will be a major asset to both ourselves and our customers", adds Jean-Paul Moonen, Architectural Segment Manager for AkzoNobel's Powder Coatings business.
The two companies had already collaborated on a digital device for AkzoNobel's Vehicle Refinishes business. Therefore, when they began working on the new spectro2profiler, the aim was to take what they had already learned for leather-like surfaces and use it to explore the possibilities of digitising the surface texture of powder coatings.
"We started researching prototypes two years ago," continues Koeckhoven. "Combining our knowledge with BYK-Gardner has enabled us to obtain objective quality control based on highly accurate measurements which just can't be achieved with the naked eye. We are currently testing and optimizing this in our manufacturing facilities. It's hugely exciting and we expect that in the near future, this digitization method will also be able to support our formulation activities."