Steel stands as a formidable engineering marvel, serving as the backbone for innumerable constructions worldwide. With enduring resilience against harsh weather conditions, it has supported countless organizations in building from the ground up. Despite its time-tested reliability, corrosion poses a persistent challenge. Caused by exposure to moisture, oxygen, and environmental factors, corrosion not only affects steel’s health but also has broader economic implications for a country.
According to the Indian Stainless Steel Development Association: India suffers a loss of around USD 110 billion every year due to corrosion which leads to the projects failing to complete their estimated life cycle. Corrosion is a huge spot of bother than how negligible it appears, and hence, it is essential to preserve the integrity and longevity of the steel.
One of the important elements that increases the risk of corrosion is iron. Steel is an alloy that carries a huge percentage of iron. The interaction of iron and oxygen leads to iron oxide, referred to as rust. The rust weakens and reduces the lifecycle of steel. To safeguard the integrity of the steel and tackle the pervasive issue of corrosion of steel, the technique of coating plays a pivotal role. It serves as one of the proactive measures acting as a shield on the steel surfaces. It prevents airborne pollutants and corrosive substances from reacting with the steel surface. Today countless structures stand testimony to durability of the steel because of coating.
Coating itself is a state-of-the-art technology that has evolved with research advancements in processes, and the development of technology. Apart from preventing corrosion, the coating also adds an aesthetic value to the steel by availing color options, pattern choices, uniform appearance, versatility in design applications, and ease of maintenance. Eventually, the goal of a buyer is to enhance the overall visual of the structure without compromising on its life. Coating is one stop for both demands. It is, however, equally important for a buyer to understand the segments of coating to make informed choices. Coating is of multiple types. The polyester coating works as a protective layer widely used in manufacturing, automotive, and construction sites. One of the important benefits of using polyester materials is its resistance to wear and tear, reflecting its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, and its durability. It also resists mildew and mold growth, acting as a shield in areas exposed to moisture. This quality of polyester material makes it a convenient coating for steel that is exposed to multiple challenges.
Based on its usage and application, polyester is factored into multiple types: Super Durable Polyester (SDP), Regular modified Polyester (RMP), Silicon Modified Polyester (SMP), and Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) are the four types of coating that are less discussed in the construction and architectural industries but carries huge weightage in terms of protection and aesthetic appeal it provides to the surface of metal and steel. Majorly, SDP and RMP coatings are widely used for outdoor and indoor usage, respectively.
Super Durable Polyester (SDP) is formulated to provide excellent resistance to UV radiation, sunlight, rain, and varying temperatures. Apart from that this type of coating carries several factors such as corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, long-term color retention, and flexibility where it carries the ability to suffer moderate levels of deformity without breaking.
Regular Modified Polyester (RMP) is a type of coating that is majorly used on galvanized steel. It is commonly used in the construction industry and for architectural applications. The RMP is preferred for its matte finish coating and durability.
Mr. XYZ from TATA BlueScope, who is an expert on steel coating said, “SDP based steel coatings are comparatively stronger and more durable than the RMP ones. SDP coating can withstand harsh weather conditions, keeps color vibrant on the construction in the long run, and is ideal for outdoor projects. RMP on the other hand loses its edge as it is more suited for moderate conditions, majorly preferred for indoor usage. RMP-based coating could be cost-efficient, but it fails to stand rigid and durable when exposed to harsh weather conditions.”
Tata BlueScope Steel with its innovative products like Durashine roof sheet caters to the SDP-based coating segment owing to the numerous benefits it carries in comparison to RMP-based products. Its insulated roofing sheets have the coating developed by the organization that has benefitted the buyers in battling harsh weather conditions, leading to the construction remaining unaffected for more than decades. The SDP-based coating is more environmentally sustainable than the RMP because of its increased durability and recyclability. Its waterproof sheet for roofs ensures superior protection against moisture, infiltration and weathering.
TBSL’s advanced coloured roofing sheets, COLORBOND® steel has been integral in numerous iconic projects over the last ten years, especially in the railway and metro sectors. They have also made their mark in crafting industrial steel buildings. For instance, they have supplied over 1600 MT of COLORBOND® steel for various metro projects across the country. COLORBOND® steel was chosen for its strength, corrosion resistance, and suitability for harsh weather conditions. It has also been used in other public utility spaces like bus stands, community halls, and airports, transforming these spaces both functionally and aesthetically. One specific example includes the Valpoi Bus stand and Community Hall in Goa, where COLORBOND® steel was used for its versatility and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, COLORBOND® steel was used in the DRDO Aircraft Hanger in Bangalore and the Chandigarh International Airport, highlighting its application in critical infrastructure projects.
Tata sheet for roof committed to sustainability and improvement of our environmental performance. The paint produced by Tata BlueScope Steel is a lead-free paint system and is 100% recyclable. Our principles on sustainability are non-negotiable which includes reducing waste material generation, storing or disposal at source, reusing waste material on-site, and recycling waste materials offsite. Durashine Roofing of Tata BlueScope Steel leads the way in making top-quality coated steel and is dedicated to delivering on its promises to help turn dreams into reality. The Roofing sheets of Tata BlueScope Steel leads the way in making top-quality coated steel and is dedicated to delivering on its promises to help turn dreams into reality.
Additionally, Tata BlueScope Steel made a notable appearance at the Steel Construction Expo 2022, held in Hyderabad. Here, the company showcased its new-age colour-coated steel solutions, emphasizing green and sustainable practices. They received various accolades and certifications at the event, including the GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) product certification for both Metal Coated and Colour Coated Steel. Their COLORBOND® steel was recognized by the CII Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) as a Green Product in Green Building Ratings. Moreover, the company published an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for COLORBOND® steel and ZINCALUME® steel, marking a first in their product category. These achievements underscore Tata BlueScope Steel’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its efforts to provide transparent data about the environmental sustainability of their products.
With a wide range of steel roofing sheets, Tata Bluescope sheet is not just participating in building projects; it is actively contributing to a future where everyone has access to safe and sustainable housing. This commitment reflects the very essence of the ‘Shelter for All’ initiative, ensuring that dreams of secure and enduring shelters become a reality for communities across India.
