Pittsburgh-based PPG recently announced it will invest $30 million to upgrade three powder coating manufacturing facilities in the United States and $14 million to upgrade two facilities in Latin America.
The investment will improve processing times with automated packaging, add production capabilities for bonded metallic powders, increase overall capacity, and enhance capabilities to produce small, medium, and large batches. It is also part of a PPG strategy to expand its powder coatings offerings and increase global production to meet growing customer demand.
“Focusing on powder coatings is a win-win for PPG and our customers as we are able to offer greater access to sustainably advantaged products,” Marizeth Carvalho, PPG global director of powder coatings and industrial coatings, said. “Powder is the fastest growing coatings technology in the world, and PPG’s goal is to lead that charge through innovation and production advancements.”
The increased demand for powder coatings is a consequence of the growing interest in sustainable solutions. Powder coatings are generally formulated without solvents that release volatile organic compounds, and coatings can be reclaimed and reused in the application line.
The facilities are located in Brazil, Ind., Gainesville, Texas; Greensboro, N.C., San Juan del Rio, Mexico, and Sumaré, Brazil.
The projects are expected to be completed this year.