Dave Bunker, Operational Risk and Supply Chain Director at Origin, the UK’s leading manufacturer of aluminium windows and doors, discusses the company’s latest achievement.
Origin has achieved the internationally renowned Qualicoat accreditation for its in-house powder coating facility. This milestone reflects a commitment to creating products that exceed industry standards for performance and sustainability.
What is Qualicoat?
Qualicoat is a globally recognised benchmark for powder coating aluminium. It ensures that coatings meet rigorous standards of durability, quality, and environmental responsibility. To earn this prestigious certification, facilities must pass stringent evaluations, including performance tests and regular surprise inspections, all designed to uphold the highest industry standards.
For those working in construction, from architects to builders, the Qualicoat accreditation provides peace of mind. It guarantees that the products they specify can withstand the demands of modern building projects while maintaining their appearance and structural integrity over time.
The road to accreditation
The journey to Qualicoat accreditation was a significant one for Origin, coinciding with the launch of its new, state-of-the-art powder coating facility in Bicester. Spanning 64,000 square feet, this £3 million facility represents a transformative step. By bringing powder coating in-house, Origin has gained complete control over its production processes, from raw materials to the finished product.
At the heart of the investment is a linishing machine, which is unique in the UK. This precision tool meticulously removes even the smallest imperfections from the aluminium profile, creating a flawless surface that is then primed through a 10-stage pre-treatment cleaning process (surpassing the industry standard of 5-7 stages). This process means the aluminium profile is impeccably prepared for the powder coating application, which not only results in a superior, even, and flawless finish, but also ensures resistance to corrosion and long-lasting durability.
Commitment to quality assurance
Achieving a Qualicoat accreditation is no easy task. It requires several rigorous independent audits and over 1,000 hours of corrosion resistance testing. The facility’s in-house laboratory also conducts continuous tests for adhesion, colour accuracy, resistance to cracking, and film thickness, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards.
At Origin, we knew we wanted to achieve Qualicoat from the start of our powder coating journey. So, unlike other powder coaters who have had to retrofit their plants to achieve the accreditation or are unable to meet the mark, we built our facility with Qualicoat in mind. This achievement underscores our dedication to delivering products that not only look great but also provide quality and longevity.
Why Qualicoat matters
For Origin Partners, Qualicoat accreditation is a tangible benefit, not just a technical standard. Not only does it mean that every door and window is manufactured to the highest standard, but our ability to powder coat in-house means fast, accurate lead times, fewer risks during transportation, a reduction of wasted profile, and an unparalleled level of quality control. These advantages directly benefit the Partners and their customers, ensuring satisfaction and confidence in every project.
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