Metal is the material of choice for components that require durability and strength for the long haul. Metal parts must have a protective coating applied to prevent the corrosion that causes material breakdown. FreshVent is built to last in the USA from Galvalume steel and goes through a rigorous powder coating process to create a durable finish, resistant to oxidation and wear-resistant — lasting longer than paint alone! Powder coating ensures a finish that is not only visually appealing, but also remarkably durable.
The powder coating application process for every FreshVent consists of a series of stages to produce the attractive finish that matches other signature products like the DryerWallVent and Premium Wall Vent: Pre-treatment, Powder Application, Curing, Cooling and Quality Inspection.
- Pre-treatment: Preparation is essential to achieve flawless results in the finished product. The metal substrate undergoes a pre-treatment process to include a deep washing and rinsing to remove chemicals, oil residue, grease, dirt, oxides and gum. The cleaning process is critical as any missed particles could show up as an imperfection in the finished product.
- Powder Application: Like the DryerWallVent and Premium Wall Vent, the ultra-durable Polyester TGIC Powder Coating for outdoor applications adds serious extra protection. The coating includes Triglycidyl Isocyanurate, an epoxy compound used as a cross-linker that strengthens the molecular connection in the polyester coating to help keep other elements at bay and offers excellent durability.
The powder coating is impervious to the effects of humidity, abrasion and corrosion and offers exceptional UV resistance. An electrostatic spray gun applies the powder coating, which is positively charged. The metal’s surface is negatively charged, creating an electrostatic attraction for the coating to adhere to the metal surface. The precise application results in a durable and beautiful chip-resistant finish. - Curing: The finish is cured in an oven using high heat, ranging from 325°F to 450°F, where the powder melts to form a continuous film on the surface, resulting in a uniform surface finish. The curing process could take up to an hour.
- Cooling: Once the parts are cured and cool down they then move to the inspection phase.
- Quality Inspection: This stage is a thorough inspection to ensure that the coating has been applied evenly, without any imperfections. Once each FreshVent meets the quality guidelines, the next step is assembly of the stainless steel hinge and pin, integrated magnets and louvered cover, preparing it for distribution.
FreshVent's clean design, solid construction and low profile complements any home's exterior.