Aluminum is one of the most common materials used to fabricate ballistic doors and frames. It’s lightweight, durable, and can be rated to withstand ballistic attacks. During the manufacturing process, raw aluminum will often receive an anodized or powder coat finish to create an ideal aesthetic look and help protect it from damage. These finishes are often perfectly suited for interior barriers, but our experience tells us that exterior doors and frames will require something extra to keep them in top shape. That’s when we turn to Kynar® PVDF coating.
What is Kynar PVDF Coating for Aluminum?
Kynar PVDF coating is a resin-based liquid paint that protects aluminum from damage and weathering. The name Kynar refers to one of the top manufacturers of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) coatings, and it is the brand used by Total Security Solutions in our bulletproof systems. This coating comes in various colors to match building aesthetics, and it is most often used on exterior aluminum doors, doorframes, and window frames as an alternative to traditional powder coating.
Kynar also comes in a fluorosurfactant free variety for businesses interested in a more environmentally-friendly option or who must adhere to state regulations on the usage of certain plastic-based materials (California notably has strict chemical regulations for coatings and solvents).
Benefits of PVDF Coating for Bulletproof Barriers
Adding a layer of Kynar PVDF coating to exterior bulletproof barriers ensures that your aluminum doors or frames maintain their sleek appearance while continuing to provide the appropriate level of protection for years to come. A few of the top reasons we recommend using a Kynar paint finish are:
- Protection from weathering and UV damage
- Increased durability and longevity
- Enhanced appearance for aluminum barriers
Let’s take a look at each of these features in detail:
Protection from Weathering and UV Damage
Any exterior bulletproof frames or doors will need to be able to stand up to the elements. Kynar coating is practically invincible in an outdoor setting, making it an incredibly valuable asset for exterior barriers. PVDF coating is unique in its ability to deflect UV rays and avoid damage or fading from sunlight, and it will prevent aluminum corrosion from exposure to moisture.
Contrary to the popular belief that “aluminum can’t rust,” the raw metal will deteriorate over time when consistently exposed to humidity, precipitation, or salt water in coastal areas. Kynar coating stops that deterioration by sealing aluminum in a layer of thermoplastic fluoropolymer designed to withstand years of weathering.
Increased Durability and Longevity
PVDF coating is applied as a resin-based liquid paint that hardens onto the surface of the aluminum. Following this process, the coating is bonded to the aluminum in a way that prevents chipping or other signs of wear and tear. With Kynar, you won’t need to worry about damage from cleaning solutions or the possibility of abrasions from everyday wear and tear.
Enhanced Appearance for Aluminum Barriers
Kynar PVDF paint adds only a very thin (but strong) layer of coating to your aluminum frames, meaning that it is the best choice for preserving the profile and look of your system design. Additionally, Kynar is a colored coating and can be designed to complement or match your existing exterior appearance. Most popular with TSS customers is a matte finish, but a glossy finish is also available.
Who Shouldn’t Use Kynar Coating?
There are a couple of instances where PVDF coating wouldn’t be the right choice for a bulletproof system. As we’ve stated above, Kynar coating is best suited for exterior use. For interior aluminum barriers, electrostatic powder coating will absolutely suffice. Powder coating is also available in a variety of colors, and it is more cost-effective for interior systems.
On that note, Kynar coating is a more expensive investment than powder coating. However, it is often the best solution to protect your new exterior bulletproof barriers from quickly wearing down due to exposure. When taking a long-term view of your safety plan, we recommend protecting existing barriers now with a PVDF coating – instead of paying to replace them on a quicker timeline in the future.
To learn more about Kynar coating and enhancing or installing bulletproof barriers for your business, get in touch with the Total Security Solutions team today.
