Two Tough and Fashionable Finishes B Y
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mong the many options for finishing MDF, two of the most durable are two-component polyurethane and powder coating. These two methods are worlds apart in their resin chemistry, process application and curing. Yet both can effectively render attractive coatings that will hold up well in high-demand spaces ranging from kitchens and offices to laboratories and retail stores. POLYURETHANE PRODUCT LAUNCH
Not only is Polarion well-suited for kitchen cabinets and laboratory furniture, its chemical, moisture, scratch and stain resistance can withstand the abuse frequently subjected to conference tables and bar tops.
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One of the newest additions to the two-component acrylic polyurethane category is M.L. Campbell’s Polarion, which Brian Cowman, senior product manager wood finishing systems, called “our highest performing wood coating technology. It provides great clarity, great scratch protection and great stain resistance.” Polarion debuted at the AWFS Fair last July and began shipping to customers at the end of the year. Its introduction followed strenuous testing in which it received excellent ratings for hot and cold resistance, edge soak, pencil hardness and more. In addition, test results met or exceeded the finish performance standards set by the Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association, Architectural Woodwork Institute and Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association. The Polarion line of interior finishes consists of primers, sealers, tintable pigment and clear topcoats with a full range of sheens. Not only is Polarion well-suited for kitchen cabinets and laboratory furniture, its chemical, moisture, scratch and stain resistance can withstand the abuse frequently subjected to conference tables and bar tops. The pigmented version is the most obvious choice for coating MDF, particleboard and hardwood plywood, Cowman said. Pigmented is available as a base white but can be tinted to any solid color.