Powder Coatings Brand Supports Major Sustainability Push

Photo Credit: Interpon, ESSE

Interpon, the powder coatings brand under AkzoNobel, is helping ESSE, a British manufacturing company, become even more sustainable by switching from an enamel coating process to a powder coating for its new range of electric-powered cookers.

Finding an alternative to enamel was a challenge and not only driven with sustainability in mind. The powder coating still had to perform and protect the cooker at very high temperatures and deliver the same quality feel in line with a premium-priced product.

“The Interpon team excelled,” says Andy Pilkington, ESSE’s production manager. “Enamel has a reflective quality, and it was important in switching to a powder coating that it retained the aesthetic appearance. It was also important that our partner could replicate existing colors in our range since they prove extremely popular and have the standout appeal people are looking for.”

Interpon’s technical experts advised on multiple parts of process, including the application of Interpon’s HT range of powder coatings with extreme heat-resistance properties, setting up the new line and the pretreatment process. Interpon color scientists also created a bespoke Interpon HT PEPA powder coating designed for stoves and other domestic appliances in ESSE’s six specialist colors.

Color is very important to the company. “Our products are high-value items and are an important part of kitchen and interior design,” says Mark Blewitt, ESSE sales director. “The colors, therefore, have to be on-trend to meet our customers’ expectations.”

Tomasz Kluczewski, regional director of AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings in northern Europe, says supporting ESSE in making the switch from enamel to powder is centered on partnerships. “It is exciting to know that our ceaseless desire for innovation, and commitment to long-term sustainable partnerships, has helped in bringing ESSE’s new electric range to market,” Kluczewski says. “Listening to and understanding the needs of the customer have been key to ensuring the success of the relationship. Both of us have reputations to uphold, and we are delighted to be supporting ESSE in continuing to lead the market through its commitment to high quality product design and performance.”

In making the switch to Interpon powder coatings, ESSE is reducing the energy consumed in the coatings process and lowering its carbon emissions. Interpon is supporting ESSE in achieving greater sustainability, while maintaining the quality of its products and supporting its reputation for color and style.