Quality criteria of powder coated HDG steel in corrosive environment

The performance of powder coatings on hot-dip galvanized steel has been studied by testing in 5 years field exposure in marine and industrial atmospheres, as well as in accelerated tests. The aim was to assess the quality of such coating systems in corrosive environments and to establish criteria for how to obtain good quality. The test data demonstrates that polyester powder coatings are a good alternative to wet paint as top coat on hot-dip galvanized steel. The phosphate layer is identified as the most crucial step to ensure high quality. Recommendations for how to obtain good quality are provided.