At C&O, we’re committed to the highest quality standards and to delivering finishes that stand the test of time. That’s why we became a Qualicoat-certified applicator.

What is Qualicoat Certification?

Qualicoat is an international accreditation that sets strict benchmarks for powder coating aluminium and its alloys for architectural applications. The standard covers the following areas:

• Establishing specifications for processes, products and tests to be used by the coating plants
• Developing and improving these specifications
• Granting licenses to coating plants that apply for the quality label
• Testing and approving chemicals and coating products to be used
• Monitoring the correct application of the specifications in licensed plants

Meeting Qualicoat Standards

The Qualicoat process is designed to deliver consistently reliable, high-performance finishes. At C&O, every project follows three key stages to achieve Qualicoat compliance.

Surface Preparation

• Aluminium is thoroughly cleaned, removing all contaminants.
• Aluminium carries contaminants from the manufacturing process which, if left on the surface, will reduce the performance of the ‘conversation coating’. A minimum etch of 1g/m² is eliminated from the metal surface (2g/m² for Seaside) to maximise the performance of the conversion coating.
• Chrome Free conversion coating. Employing a Zirconium and Silane chemistry, this process coats the metal imparting a layer of corrosion protection whilst promoting excellent paint adhesion.

Powder Application

• Automatic spray booths ensure the powder is evenly applied, adhering to specified thickness standards to ensure optimal protection.
• Paint manufacturers guidelines are strictly followed. This ensures the finish is replicated as per the manufacturers design.

Curing

• The coated product is heated in a curing oven to bond the powder to the aluminium.
• Proper curing ensures the powder undergoes a full chemical reaction where it flows, gels and crosslinks. This process forms a strong durable film that prevents cracking and ensures long-term resistance to environmental stress.

Testing and Quality Control

• Every order is checked in accordance with the Qualicoat standard including appearance, coating thickness and gloss level.
• Sample panels pre-treated and painted alongside the customer’s product are also checked. As well as film thickness and gloss level, the panels are subjected to a series of mechanical tests including impact, bend, cross hatch as well as wet adhesion to full to ensure consistent performance.
• All aspects of the plant are closely monitored and tested. Stringent daily checks on both the curing and pre-treatment facility are paramount to adhering to the standard.
• Independent auditors regularly verify our compliance with Qualicoat requirements. Unannounced inspections are carried out twice a year ensuring the standard’s integrity.

Types of Qualicoat Certification

Qualicoat isn’t just a single standard; it also covers the performance of both the powder and pre-treatment chemicals.

Qualicoat Powder Standards

Within the Qualicoat certification, powder coatings are divided into three performance levels:

• Class 1
  Coatings meet the basic Qualicoat standards for durability and UV resistance and are primarily used where exposure to extreme weather is limited.
• Class 2
  Coatings are formulated with increased durability to withstand more intense UV exposure and weathering. They offer a higher level of colour retention and gloss preservation and are used in locations which have varying weather conditions and sunlight.
• Class 3
  Coatings are for locations where there is intense sunlight, high temperatures or corrosive conditions and are typically used in desert or tropical areas.

Qualicoat Seaside

Seaside is an enhanced level of Qualicoat accreditation. It builds on the standard by adding extra pre-treatment steps to provide coatings that withstand the challenges posed by saltwater, high humidity, and increased exposure to corrosive elements.

Why C&O customers choose Qualicoat Certified Coatings

As an internationally recognised accreditation, Qualicoat gives our customers confidence that every project will meet their expectations for durability, colour retention, and long-term performance.

To find out more about the range of colours and finishes available from C&O contact us to discuss your next project.