Military equipment is designed to perform in the most extreme environments, as it must face all types of climates, from desert to frigid temperatures of the Arctic. In these conditions, what keeps it protective and durable is called powder coating. This coating not only enhances the beauty of military gear but also protects against corrosion or scratches.
Powder-coated is durable, but it still requires proper maintenance to maximize long-term performance. When this surface is cared for regularly, it can perform for years of demanding use.
In this article, we are discussing some tips for maintaining military powder-coated surfaces.
Clean the Surface Regularly
Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining the integrity of military powder coating. Environmental elements can cause damage that can be hard to remove. Here are some tips for cleaning regularly:
- Gentle washing with a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap. Avoid harsh materials like steel wool that can cause scratching.
- After cleaning, rinse with clean water to remove remaining soap.
- The next step is drying, so let the surface dry in natural air or use a soft, clean towel.
Inspect for Damage
Regularly inspecting can help identify any signs of wear and tear or scratches. Look out for:
- By regular inspection, you can find some minor scratches leading to rust or corrosion over time. When you notice any damage, you should fix it quickly.
- During inspection, you may find a chipped area that allows moisture or chemicals to penetrate, causing corrosion. So when you see it, fix it as soon as possible.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
While powder coating can protect the equipment, some harsh chemicals can damage the coating over time. To protect the coating, you should avoid using these chemicals:
- Acids or Alkaline Solutions can cause the coating to peel or fade.
- Strong Solvents can erode the powder coat, leading to damage.
- Abrasive Cleaners can scratch the coating, leading to a loss of its aesthetic appeal and easily cause degradation.
Use Protective Tools
Only the usage of harsh chemicals does not cause damage the powder-coated surface but some tools can also lead to scratches and other damage. To avoid these, you need to use protective tools for powder coating surface cleaning.
When cleaning or handling this surface, you should use protective tools like soft brushes, sponges, or cloths. Stiff brushes or harsh cleaning tools can cause scratches or coating to peel off.
Avoid exposure to Harsh Weather
Military equipment is often used in extreme weather conditions, but it can be stored out of harsh climates when not in use. Below are some tips that can be helpful:
Try to protect this equipment from UV rays. You can store them in shaded areas or cover them when not in use. This can help to prevent them from UV exposure, which can fade these powder-coated surfaces.
This surface needs moisture protection for long-lasting performance. For this, you need to dry after exposure to rain or moisture. Especially in a saltwater climate, because it causes corrosion, rinsing off any saltwater residue is crucial.