Whether you operate a critical site of national importance or a large corporation complex, if you’re purchasing security fencing to guard the perimeter of your premises, you’ll be looking for a solution that is built to last. Unfortunately, security solutions installed in an outdoor setting made from iron alloys such as steel will be subjected to both air and rainwater, which is an ideal breeding ground for rust.
The danger of this is that as rust spreads, it breaks down the metal and weakens it. This is not a desirable feature in security fencing as it automatically makes it more vulnerable to attack, with intruders more able to bypass your defences.
For this reason, the latest security fencing is treated with a powder coating, offering premium protection against weather and contaminants and ensuring your metal fences stay in mint condition. However, those concerned with maximising fence lifelines should pay particular attention to the products they purchase to ensure that the protection treatments used to meet certain standards.
What is BS EN 13438?
BS EN 13438 is a British Standard last updated in 2013 that applies to varnishes and paints, such as powder coatings, designed for use with galvanised steel products. The standard sets particular performance requirements for the powder coatings used, allowing purchasers to know that the products using them can be relied upon.
At Zaun, we recommend that you specify that the product used meets this British Standard when selecting a powder coating to be used on your security fences. BS EN 13438 means that the coating has been tested in-depth with analysis covering various attributes, including film thickness and pre-treatment requirements. It also means that it has undergone stringent quality control processes and destructive testing to prove its ability to remain resilient under duress.
What is powder coating?
Powder coating is effectively a kind of coating that is primarily applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. Unlike traditional liquid paint delivered through an evaporating solvent, these powder coatings are applied electrostatically before being cured by ultraviolet light or heat. The powder used may be a thermoset or thermoplastic polymer, but either way, it will provide a more robust finish than standard paint. Additionally, enterprises using security fences can brand their defences in their company colours, as powder coating can offer a wide selection to choose from.
Anti-corrosive properties
Depending on where your security fence is located, it may have to contend with more than just rust. Acids and chemicals in airborne pollution in industrial areas can eat into fencing, as can salt, wind, sand, and humidity in coastal regions.
We here at Zaun offer Duplex Marine Coatings for sites that are near the coastline or open water. This enables fences to be treated with powerful protection against corrosion, giving them a life span of over 15 years. However, the correct level of coating must always be matched to the environmental elements the fence will be subjected to ensure its longevity. Contact our team today for further information or to discuss your specifications.
