Tolar Manufacturing Company Inc’s™ Standard RAL Color Deck Ensures a Durable, High-Performance Finish.
Our Finishing Process
Our finishing process involves a series of production steps that begin in our material finishing department, where all materials are abraded. The next step includes cleaning and sandblasting, which prepares the metal surface to receive a finish. The powder coat finish is applied, followed by the application of the selected RAL color. In many cases, an optional clear coat is applied for added durability.
Our Quality Assurance Process
To provide a lifetime warranty and ensure compliance with our quality standards, we monitor and document the finish quality of each production run using a minimum of four sample parts. These parts are tested according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D3359-02, the industry standard for coating finish adhesion, also known as the ASTM Standard Test Method for Measuring Adhesion by Tape. This method tests the adhesion of powder coating films to metallic surfaces by applying and removing adhesive tape over cuts made in the coating, to determine how well the coating resists scratching and lifting of the finish, thereby preventing rust or corrosion of the material.
We test for best results that help avoid graffiti and create a long lasting product
In addition, the finished parts are tested according to ASTM D4752-10, also known as the ASTM Standard Test Method for Measuring MEK Resistance of Ethyl Silicate (Inorganic) Zinc-Rich Primers by Solvent Rub. This method tests the finish for resistance to chemical solvents. The test is used to ensure that finished surfaces are resistant to graffiti and other damage caused by exposure to solvents. Both ASTM tests help ensure that our products remain functional and maintain a positive appearance in the community throughout their lifetime. All powder-coated parts are inspected for quality and uniformity of finish before assembly and shipment. Tolar assumes no responsibility for nicks, cuts, scratches, or any other damage to powder-coated parts that are caused by normal wear and tear, abusive use, or improper cleaning. Finish quality testing helps us ensure our products have a long-lasting, highly durable, and attractive finish that will enhance the streetscape and passenger experience for transit riders for years to come.
A note about our powder coatings
Tolar uses AAMA powder coatings for the finish of shelters and other passenger amenities. Steel and aluminum surfaces coated with architectural coating products require proper maintenance to optimize the appearance and performance of the coating throughout the product’s service life. Proper coating maintenance is necessary to maintain the coating warranty protection in force. Coating maintenance involves regular monitoring, cleaning, and repair of any damage. Surface cleaning removes accumulated materials that can affect the appearance and/or undermine the integrity of the coating.
Powder-coated surfaces must be appropriately maintained in service to keep the powder coating product performance warranty valid. Program effectiveness depends on cleaning the coated surface often enough to keep it free of harmful agents. Regular cleaning will increase coating longevity. For coastal installations, the cleaning frequency may need to be as frequent as once a month. Furthermore, significant events, such as storms, may necessitate unscheduled cleanings.
