Sivupinnoit

Sivupinnoit is a term used in Finnish industrial contexts to describe the coating of the side surfaces of a component or part. The word derives from sivu, meaning side, and pinnoitus, meaning coating. It denotes targeted surface treatment that protects or adds functionality to lateral faces while other faces may receive different coatings or remain uncoated.

The sivupinnoit process typically involves masking or edge-aware application methods to confine the coating to the sides. Common application techniques include air-assisted or airless spray, brush or roller application, and sometimes dip or flow coating with orientation control to prevent side coatings from spreading to non-target surfaces. Curing or drying follows according to the coating material’s requirements. Quality control emphasizes achieving uniform edge thickness and adhesion on vertical or angled faces, with masking integrity checked before handling.

Materials used for sivupinnoit vary by requirement. Epoxy and polyurethane systems are common for corrosion and wear resistance, while silicone-based or ceramic coatings offer high temperature stability or chemical resistance. Metallic edge coatings and specialized elastomeric layers may be used where impact resistance or sealing are priorities. The choice depends on environmental exposure, mechanical demands, and compatibility with adjacent surfaces and processes.

Applications span several industries, including automotive components with edge protection, architectural metals, electrical enclosures, and consumer electronics housings where side surfaces require protection or performance attributes without altering top or front faces.

Standards and specifications for coating thickness, adhesion, and surface prep underpin sivupinnoit projects, with thickness usually measured in micrometers and validated by nondestructive testing methods.

See also: coating, edge coating, corrosion protection, surface finishing.