The powder coating industry is facing profound challenges and changes. Rising energy costs, technological upheaval and the growing shortage of skilled workers are putting the industry under increasing pressure. At the same time, the need for sustainable and intelligent solutions is growing in order to meet the increasing demands for quality, environmental friendliness and efficiency. Against this backdrop, the 12th Praxisforum Industriebeschichtung (QIB) in Wetzlar provided a platform to shed light on the current trends, challenges and potential of the industry. "Our industry needs an exchange and discussion about future-proof solutions right now," emphasized Markus Kopp, Chairman of the QIB, in his opening speech.
Retrofit - great effect despite manageable investment
"We are in a time of great uncertainty - from the automotive sector to the construction industry - but this is precisely where the opportunity for innovation lies," emphasized Nils Reinke from coatmaster AG in his presentation. Among other things, he reported on retrofit solutions and the digital modernization of existing systems. Reinke emphasized: "Our closed-loop technology proves in practice that we can raise existing systems to a completely new level of efficiency."
Lars Walther from QIB Qualitätsgemeinschaft Industriebeschichtung e.V. also emphasized the relevance of sustainable technologies. In his presentation on new corrosion protection standards, he pointed out the importance of standardization work for progress in the industry: "Our task is to drive innovation with clear standards and at the same time create reliability for users."
Debunking misunderstandings and myths in the surface industry
The live podcast by Ernst-Hermann Timmermann and Markus Vüllers, hosted by Marko Schmidt, generated a lot of enthusiasm. Timmermann explained: "We factually debunked myths and misconceptions about painting technology - from nitrogen to cleaning agents that supposedly evaporate without leaving any residue." The participants appreciated the interactive approach, which conveyed technical facts in an entertaining and understandable way.
Key topics and practical relevance
In addition to digitalization and sustainability, specific technical challenges such as coating porous substrates were also addressed. Tore Sievers from Eurolacke gave a highly interesting presentation on how the pre-treatment and, above all, adhesion of the coating can be significantly optimized and what mistakes are often made here. "An epoxy primer that is baked at higher temperatures is often the key to optimum results," explained Sievers in his practical presentation.
The "Everyone Needs Powder Award" crowned the evening program and encouraged exchange among the participants. A review that whets the appetite for more: "A well-balanced event with very good presentations and a strong increase in interest," summarized Lars Walther.
Conclusion and outlook
The 12th Industrial Coating Practice Forum 2024 showed once again how important it is to exchange ideas in an industry that is constantly reinventing itself. From technological innovations and regulatory requirements to practical solutions, key topics were covered comprehensively. The event proved that cohesion and the innovative strength of the industry are crucial, especially in challenging times.
"The event not only opened up new perspectives, but also showed how strong the willingness to cooperate is in the industry," summarized Lars Walther. With this positive outlook, participants can already look forward to the Praxisforum 2025, which will set the next milestones for the powder coating industry.
You will find a detailed follow-up report, which goes into more detail on the individual presentation topics, in the December issue of the magazine for surface technology and shortly online at oberflaeche.de