Color Coated Galvanized Steel Strip (PPGI/PPGL): Definition, Characteristics, and Applications
1. Definition
Color Coated Galvanized Steel Strip, also known as Prepainted Galvanized Steel (PPGI) or Prepainted Galvalume Steel (PPGL), is a composite material manufactured by applying organic coatings (e.g., polyester, silicon-modified polyester, polyvinylidene fluoride) onto a galvanized or galvalume steel substrate. The substrate undergoes surface pretreatment (chemical degreasing and conversion coating) before the coating process, followed by high-temperature baking for curing. Its vibrant colors and functional properties make it widely used in construction, appliances, transportation, and industrial sectors.
2. Key Characteristics
- Superior Corrosion Resistance
- The zinc layer (180–275 g/m² for galvanized steel) provides cathodic protection, while the organic coating acts as a barrier against environmental factors. This dual protection extends service life by 1.5 times compared to uncoated galvanized steel.
- Galvalume substrates (55% Al-Zn alloy) offer 2–5× higher corrosion resistance, ideal for coastal or industrial environments.
- Excellent Formability
- PPGI/PPGL can be directly processed through cutting, bending, and stamping without coating cracking. For example, polyester (PE) coatings maintain integrity even after severe deformation.
- Aesthetic and Functional Versatility
- Available in standard colors (e.g., RAL gray, sea blue, brick red) or custom patterns (wood grain, metallic textures).
- Functional coatings include UV-resistant (HDP), self-cleaning (PVDF), and antimicrobial options.
- Lightweight and Energy Efficiency
- Weighs 50% less than traditional materials like concrete, reducing transportation and installation costs.
- High reflectivity (>0.75 for galvalume) minimizes heat absorption, lowering cooling energy consumption in buildings.
3. Primary Applications
Industry |
Typical Uses |
Advantages |
Construction |
Roofing sheets, wall panels, roll-up doors, steel-structured factories |
PVDF-coated PPGI withstands extreme weather for 20–25 years. |
Appliances |
Refrigerator exteriors, washing machine panels, air conditioner casings |
Smooth surfaces resist stains, with color retention under high gloss. |
Transportation |
Vehicle ceilings, train compartment panels, ship interiors |
Lightweight design reduces fuel consumption; flame-retardant coatings enhance safety. |
Industrial Equipment |
Chemical storage tanks, agricultural silos, solar panel brackets |
Silicone-modified polyester coatings resist chemical corrosion. |
Electronics & Furniture |
Electrical cabinets, office partitions, metal furniture |
Anti-static coatings protect sensitive devices; embossed textures improve aesthetics. |
4. Technological Advancements
- Eco-friendly Coatings: Water-based paints and chromium-free pretreatment reduce VOC emissions, complying with EU RoHS standards.
- Smart Coatings: Development of heat-reflective coatings (to reduce building energy use) and photocatalytic self-cleaning coatings (to decompose pollutants).
- High-performance Substrates: Zinc-aluminum-magnesium (ZAM) alloy substrates offer self-healing properties at cut edges, extending lifespan to 10× that of conventional galvanized steel.