The right enamelling choice for modern manufacturing
Choosing the best coating method is not just a technical decision, it’s a strategic one. It influences the entire manufacturing value chain. It directly impacts operational cost, energy efficiency, and product performance. Manufacturers today face pressure to reduce costs, meet sustainability targets, and deliver products that last. At PEMCO International, we draw on over a century of expertise to help manufacturers decide between traditional porcelain enamelling techniques and enamelling powders and with our technical expertise, we are uniquely positioned to match the optimal technology to our clients’ specific article requirements.
What is porcelain enamel?
Porcelain enamel is an inorganic glass-based coating fused to metal at high temperatures, typically between 500°C and 900°C. Unlike organic paints or epoxies, porcelain enamel forms a permanent chemical bond with the substrate, delivering exceptional durability, heat resistance, and chemical stability. These properties make it the preferred choice for applications where longevity and sustainability are essential.
Wet porcelain enamelling: Proven performance
Traditional wet enamelling techniques have been the backbone of the industry for decades, offering exceptional versatility and reliability. These processes involve applying a liquid suspension, the slip, to the metal surface which is then dried and fired. The classic Two-Coat, Two-Fire (2C/2F) method, where a ground coat and cover coat are fired separately, provides outstanding adhesion and a high variety of colours and surface finishes. Although energy-intensive, it remains the gold standard for challenging parts in cast iron and steel. It also is the only option to enamel aluminium parts.
Over time, alternative methods like Two-Coat, One-Fire (2C/1F) were developed to improve efficiency, allowing both coats to be applied and fired together. This reduces energy consumption and shortens production cycles, without compromising on durability or appearance. While wet porcelain enamelling is less energy-efficient than powder methods, its ability to deliver precise finishes on difficult parts ensures its continued relevance in demanding applications.
Enamelling powders: Fast & sustainable future
The evolution towards enamelling powders represents a significant leap forward for the industry, combining efficiency, automation, and sustainability. Instead of a liquid suspension, powders are applied using electrostatic spray deposition, which ensures even coverage across the component, including complex edges and corners. Our branded range of POESTA® electrostatic powders, formed as an acronym from POwder for ElectroSTatic Application are ready-to-use powders for dry electrostatic application, avoiding the use of water during application.
Once deposited, the powders are fused to the substrate in a single firing cycle, streamlining production and reducing energy use compared to wet processes. Also, the overspray is immediately reclaimed and reused, further reducing waste and improving material efficiency. These qualities position powder enamel at the forefront of environmentally conscious manufacturing, helping companies meet tightening global regulations while lowering operating costs.
Beyond its environmental advantages, powder enamelling provides smooth, consistent finishes, making it an ideal choice for large-scale appliance manufacturing, silo panels, heat exchanger panesl, etc.,where both performance and sustainability are essential.
Choosing the right process
Why Partner with PEMCO?
With more than a century of innovation in porcelain enamelling, PEMCO International helps manufacturers evaluate process options and adopt the most efficient, sustainable solution. From decorative cookware to high-performance industrial coatings, we engineer tailored sustainable enamel coatings that meet today’s demands for durability, compliance, and environmental responsibility.
Are you looking to optimise your coating process?
Contact PEMCO International to discover the right enamel and application for your operation.