Coating Process

SURFACE PREPARATION

Proper surface preparation is the foundation for a quality coating job. A&A coating, Inc. utilizes dual cleaning machines, which are calibrated to provide an optimum floor of cleaning media to the pipe surface in order to create an anchor pattern and maximum degree of cleaning. The use of multiple machines also prevents cross contamination of the cleaning media. Cleaning materials are constantly monitored for contamination and particle size degradation.

HEATERS

​Fusion bonded epoxy coating materials must be applied to a steel surface which has been heated to a precise temperature. A&A Coating, Inc. achieves this important step with multiple inline natural gas heating units which are electronically monitored, and capable of precise temperature control.

POWDER COATING APPLICATION

​The coating material is applied to the pipe in a negative atmosphere chamber using electrostatic guns operated in conjunction with a fluidized bed system. Each gun can be individually adjusted for pressure and delivery volume, as well as voltage levels. This system assures a smooth, continuous coating film, free of thickness variations.

QUENCH LINE

After the coating application, the pipe is subjected to a water quench. This procedure cools the pipe to a safe handling temperature, and conditions the coating surface to lessen the possibility of subsequent damage during handling

COOLING TOWER

​A specialized heat exchanger in which air and water are brought into direct contact with one another in order to reduce the water’s temperature. As this occurs, a small volume of water is evaporated, reducing the temperature of the water being circulated through the tower.

DUAL HIGH SPEED POWDER TRANSFER

​The powder transfer system allows fusion bonded epoxy powder to be transported as needed and screened prior to application to ensure no foreign particles enter the spray system.

BLAST CLEANING MACHINES

Equipped with two blast wheels, our blast machines are suitable for cleaning pipe from 2″ (OD) to 24″ (O) at 200 square feet/min, reassuring our customers optimal surface preparation for a superior coating. This will allow debris and rust that have accumulated on the pipe to be more sufficiently bead blasted off.

DUST COLLECTORS

In conjunction with our advanced blasting machines, we also installed Farr Dust Collectors. The stainless steel structure is equipped with 5,850 CFM @ 2.5 : 1 Air to Cloth ration and a fan rating of 10 inches of static pressure.

BLAST AND TRANSFER LINE

Upgraded with complete AC Eurodrive/motor systems to allow precision blast and profile.

INVENTORY MANAGEMENT

We utilize NetarData software to identify, track and maintain accurate inventory. Each pipe is labeled with a Nektar QR code that allows us to keep digital records. Our customers receive daily coating tallies and reports.