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PPG, Plasticolors Plan Wind Turbine Coating

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

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PPG Industries plans to introduce a new urethane gel coat developed by Plasticolors Inc. for the global wind energy market.

PPG said it would be working with Plasticolors, of Ashtabula, OH, to address the advanced coating requirements of the rapidly expanding wind energy industry.

Plasticolors has developed and will manufacture the gel coat in clear for wind blades and pigmented for nacelles.

‘High-Performance Alternative’

"The gel coat we've developed will be attractive to wind turbine manufacturers as a high-performance alternative to epoxy and polyester gel coats in use today," said Scott Becker, president and CEO of Plasticolors Inc.

"Since our expertise is manufacturing and development, we wanted to make sure we worked with someone who could give this product technology maximum exposure and the industrial consideration it merits. PPG has a long-term focus on, and understanding of, the wind energy industry. Their global sales and distribution channels make them a perfect partner for this technology."

Said Steve Podlas, brand manager, industrial segments, for PPG's commercial coatings group: "Together, Plasticolors and PPG bring a complete commercial and technical package to the wind energy market when combined with our urethane primer, topcoat and technical service. Plasticolors has created a superior product, a product we know will be seen as the premium standard in the field."

Features and Characteristics

The clear gel coat, AGC200, adheres to epoxy, polyester, vinyl ester and urethane composite substrates; boasts low viscosity for smooth application; and offers the option of having open time for lamination up to three days, according to the manufacturer. The clear and transparent liquid remains as such in a cured film.

The pigmented gel coat, AGC10000 Series, features similar adhesion properties and open time for lamination along with outdoor durability and dimensional stability.

Both gel coats feature solvent-free composition, flexible urethane film, and the ability to be modified to meet application requirements, the manufacturer says.

The clear gel coat enables visual inspection of composite laminate for defects and may be recoated using high-solids urethane and epoxy primers and urethane topcoats. The pigmented gel coat can be applied at lower film thickness than traditional gel coats and provides high gloss and distinctness of image, the company says.

Pittsburgh-based PPG makes and supports a specialized portfolio of advanced products engineered to make wind-energy turbine blades and towers stronger, lighter and more efficient. More information: www.ppgwind.com.