Choosing the right industrial coating is a key decision to ensure the durability, safety, and efficiency of any surface, whether it involves metal structures, machinery, tanks, industrial vehicles, or installations exposed to extreme conditions.
In this guide, at Mestres Pintura Industrial, we explain the most important factors to consider in order to make the right choice.
1. Identify the type of surface and its use
Each material requires a specific approach:
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Steel: requires robust anticorrosive protection
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Aluminium: needs high-adhesion coatings
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Cast iron: may require special primer layers
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Plastics or composites: need flexible and compatible paints
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Etc.
Defining the nature of the substrate is the first step to avoiding adhesion or degradation issues.
2. Analyse environmental conditions
The environment determines the required level of protection:
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Marine environments: high-resistance anticorrosive coatings
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Chemical environments: epoxy or high-resistance polyurethane coatings
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Extreme outdoor exposure (sun, rain, abrasion): finishes with high UV stability
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High humidity: systems with barrier or zinc-rich primers
Proper analysis can double the service life of the project.
3. Define the desired level of resistance and durability
Not all coatings offer the same performance. Key factors include:
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Chemical resistance
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Abrasion resistance
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Thermal stability
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Long-term anticorrosive protection
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Flexibility and impact resistance
Overspecifying a system increases costs; underspecifying it can lead to premature repainting.
4. Select the appropriate type of coating
Depending on the project, the most common options include:
a) Polyester
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Excellent adhesion
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High chemical resistance
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Ideal for demanding industrial environments
b) Polyurethane (PU)
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Superior aesthetic finish
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Very good UV resistance
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Ideal as an exterior topcoat
c) Polyamide
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Excellent resistance to high temperatures
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High mechanical and chemical stability
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Recommended for industrial applications with high thermo-mechanical demands
d) PLASCOAT® (thermoplastic coatings)
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Very high corrosion protection
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Excellent resistance to impact and abrasion
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Ideal for aggressive, marine, or high-humidity environments
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Durable, low-maintenance solution
5. Consider standards and certifications
Industrial, construction, and energy sectors often require compliance with standards such as:
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ISO 12944 for anticorrosive protection
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Fire resistance certifications
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Environmental regulations
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Client- or sector-specific standards
Compliance ensures safety, quality, and long-term durability.
6. Evaluate the application process
Coating quality depends as much on the process as on the product itself:
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Application conditions (temperature, humidity)
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Surface preparation (blasting, cleaning, priming)
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Recommended film thickness
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Curing or baking times
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Desired final finish
A poor application can compromise even the best coating system.
Choosing the right industrial coating involves analysing the material, the environment, the technical requirements, and the applicable standards. With the right selection, you can significantly increase the durability of your facilities or machinery.
Do you need professional advice for your project?
At Mestres Pintura Industrial, we help you choose the perfect coating system based on your specific needs.