Licence holder

Vertik-Al has been awarded the GSB International quality seal for Approved Coated Aluminium.

The Birmingham-based powder coating specialist claims to be the only applicator in the UK and Ireland to hold the licence, and has done so since 1994.

“The GSB International quality seal, coupled with the Qualicoat licence, means our customers can be confident that all the materials leaving our factory are of the highest standard,” Matthew Hill, quality manager for Vertik-Al, said. “In fact, we’re that committed to quality that we are happy to offer 30-year guarantee on all AkzoNobel gloss, satin and matt finishes, and that is extended to 40 years with AkzoNobel’s Interpon D2525.”

The GSB International awards after a positive approval of the powder coating process – from pre-treatment through to testing of the finished product. During pre-treatment the awarding body is looking at etch rates, coating weights and rinse conductivity.

Attention then turns to the oven temperature; it is essential that the material is in the oven for the correct amount of time and at the right temperature.

The finished material is then put through a rigorous testing regime which includes mechanical testing, pressure cooking and AASS testing. The finished coating must also be of the correct appearance, thickness and gloss level.