A new factory has begun operation in Hafnarfjördur, outside Reykjavík. Duft is the first factory of its kind in the Nordic countries, which uses conventional and new infrared technology to powder coat wood, glass, plastic, iron, aluminum, fiber boards and other materials.
From Hafnarfjördur. Photo by Páll Kjartansson.
To begin with, the factory is expected to create seven new jobs. Once the highest production level has been reached, up to 15 people can be employed there, Morgunbladid reports.
Managing director Gudjón Ólafur Kristbergsson said the intention had been to launch operations one year ago. Everything had been ready when the banking crisis hit and all funding was cut short.
Powder coating was invented 40 years ago, but the technology has not developed much since. Duft uses technology developed by Mike Chapman at Vulcan Catalytic Systems in the US. Infrared powder coating is mostly used in the automobile industry.
Kristbergsson explained that this technology is both cheaper and results in stronger coating than conventional coating methods.
“With this method we can both lower the price for our customers and undertake projects that would otherwise be undertaken abroad. Direct export is very reasonable while the euro remains above ISK 180 and can strengthen the company’s operational conditions in the coming months,” Kristbergsson said.
Duft has already received many orders. The company has a patent license for the usage and production on the infrared powder coating technology in Iceland and in the Nordic and Baltic countries and is planning to establish branches there in the future.
