Monday, April 21, 2008

$$$$ Polyurethane vs. Fluoropolymer?? $$$$

Always know what the paint rep is selling you and how much it costs vs. what the industry standard is. Within the past several years, fluoropolymers (a generic coating type) have been marketed in the water tank industry. They are purported to have longer gloss and color retention than the traditional polyurethanes (polyurethanes are currently the industry standard). However, it is yet to be determined how much longer, if any, benefit fluoropolymers provide. In addition, the cost is close to $400.00 per gallon vs. $60.00 (approximate cost) per gallon for a very good, high performance polyurethane.

It is important to know that there is a difference in the performance of polyurethanes from one manufacturer to the next. Color and light stabilizers, Ultraviolet light inhibitors, resin types, formulation differences, etc.... all will have an effect on a polyurethane's ability to withstand the test of time and the elements. Without knowing the specific differences between all of the options, it is wise to consult with several people to evaluate the real costs and advantages of using one paint system vs. the other.

Call me when you are assembling together specifications and information when either building a new tank or repainting an existing one. I will provide objective information on different paint systems and will provide assistance that will be in the best interests of the project.

No comments: