At Sundial Powder Coating, we understand that military requirements are constantly evolving, with powder coating technology adapting to meet critical standards such as:
- •Enhanced survivability for personnel
- •Extreme durability
- •Superior corrosion resistance
- •High-performance reliability
- •Environmentally conscious solutions, minimizing VOCs and HAPs and enabling overspray reuse
Above all, our coatings support the readiness of military equipment and safeguard U.S. troops globally. The financial stakes are also significant: corrosion alone costs the Department of Defense (DoD) around $20 billion annually, accounting for roughly 20% of their maintenance budget on equipment and facilities.
The Strategic Role of Powder Coatings in Military Use
Powder coatings are gaining traction across various industries, and their application in defense settings is expanding as well. This finishing method offers one of the toughest and most cost-effective alternatives to liquid coatings, featuring a solvent-free process that cuts down on waste and simplifies cleanup. The majority of powder overspray up to 95% can be reused, aligning with the military’s green initiatives.
Our powder coatings also stand out for their capability in tackling complex components with sharp edges, providing enhanced penetration in difficult areas due to their Faraday effect compatibility. Powder coatings additionally reduce operational costs, from lower insurance premiums to minimized air handling expenses.
Military Specifications and Applications
Since the late 1980s, powder coatings have complemented traditional military finishes. Today, updated specifications from both the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and Naval Sea Systems Command (NavSea) have broadened powder coating use across military assets. These standards cover various coating types, such as epoxy and polyester options, each tailored for specific environments and purposes.
For example, the MIL-PRF-32348 specification, maintained by ARL, supports powder coatings with Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) properties for decontamination in chemical warfare environments. Additional specifications like MIL-PRF-32550 guide the use of metal-rich primers that offer robust corrosion protection, further reinforcing the durability and reliability of military assets.
Opportunities and Challenges in Military Powder Coating
Navigating military powder coating requires adherence to specifications like MIL-DTL-53072. Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers can benefit from an in-house finishing system aligned with military standards, which often involves stringent audits and process approval by the OEM.
Staying updated with evolving military requirements is crucial, as specs can change. Federal contracting opportunities for powder coating work are regularly posted on FedBizOpps for those seeking to enter the defense market.
Partnering with a knowledgeable coatings manufacturer well-versed in MIL specifications is a key advantage in delivering durable finishes that protect our soldiers and maintain the operational integrity of military equipment. At Sundial Powder Coating, we’re committed to these standards, ensuring our finishes meet the highest level of durability and performance to support the men and women who serve.