A coating is an industrial procedure involving the application of a liquid or powder to the surface of an edible product in order to impart additional (often sensory) qualities. Coating refers to both the process of putting a layer on something and the layer itself.
Coating items such as chicken, beef, fish, pork, shrimp, and other shellfish improves their flavor, texture, and weight. Additionally, it shields the product from any harm while freezing. The aesthetic quality of the food will also be enhanced as the coating makes the product more attractive. There are several types of coatings, which may be composed of liquid or dry components, or a mix of the two.
Additionally, coatings can be used to give vitamins and minerals or energy to meals.
Standard Coating Methods
Dip Coating
This is a cheap way to put a uniform, high-quality coating on different shapes and sizes of substrates, even ones with huge surface areas. For high-volume manufacturing applications, dipping can be performed manually or automatically.
The process involves immersing parts in a tank with a liquid polymer and then taking them out at a steady rate while controlling the air and temperature. The thickness of the coating depends on the coating viscosity, rate of withdrawal from the tank, immersion time, and how many times it is dipped (dipping cycles).
In the oven, solidification frequently happens at extreme temperatures. It is crucial that surfaces are clear of pollutants prior to dipping. Flow and runoff quality are essential for process management and continuous quality control.
Brushing
This is a common way to apply a coating, but it needs skilled workers and the right brush or bristles for the liquid polymer to be spread out evenly and in the right places. To achieve the desired film thickness, numerous applications may be required.
It’s important that the synthetic or natural bristles of the brush work well with the substance being used. Prior to usage, brushes must be cleaned.
While brushing has a quick setup time, it is slower than other coating methods. There is less waste, the cost of capital is low, and small production runs can still be profitable.
Rolled Finish
Rollers are used to manually apply coatings on large, flat surfaces. Utilize roller coverings and frames of superior quality for optimal performance. However, it does not function well on rough or bumpy food surfaces. Additionally, it is difficult to regulate film thickness.
For high-volume production, automated roll coating equipment may be used. Roll coaters can be set up in different ways and offer finishes that are cost-effective, reliable, and of high quality to meet a wide range of needs.
Spraying
This is an adaptable, affordable, and quick food coating method. Liquid coatings that are viscous or non-viscous can be applied by hand or by machine with a high transfer efficiency for high-quality uniform finishes.
Surface Coating
Here, the coating is put in the middle of the substrate, and the substrate is quickly spun by centrifugal force. Spin coating has been shown to be a very good way to make thin coatings with a uniform thickness and a smooth, consistent finish.
Flow Coating
Flow coating is a quick, simple, and reliable manual or automatic coating application method. It is recommended for use on large, flat sheets that are hard to dip-coat. Additionally, thick coatings may be achieved with a single application.
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