Browse our extensive collection of paints and coating solutions.
Find the coating solutions best suited for your applications.
Explore the innovative technologies behind every finish—visit our Technology Hub.
The beautiful historic city of Ghent, Belgium, provided the perfect setting for our 16th international R&D conference in powder coating. Powder coating, latest innovations and advancements were a major topic throughout the event. Bringing together licensees and Protech Group colleagues from across the globe, the event was a dynamic mix of learning, networking, and fun.
At the heart of our conference were a series of training sessions and lectures. Over three days, our experts and guest speakers shared the latest advancements in the use of coating techniques and powder technology. This sparked innovation and equipped our attendees with the knowledge to drive future developments. The exchange of ideas and collaborative spirit was remarkable, making this an invaluable powder coating experience for all involved.
Ghent’s rich history and cultural vibrancy provided a stunning backdrop. We explored the beautiful medieval architecture and the many waterways in the city. Through this, we reflected on how travel to such places inspires creativity in industries like powder coating.
A graffiti tour offered a unique perspective on Ghent’s artistic side and made us more attentive to the many artworks throughout the city. It also highlighted the famous legal graffiti street where we watched artists at work. We also delved into the past by visiting the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen), a fortress with a rich history dating back nearly a century. Like layering color on a canvas or powder on a coating surface, Ghent’s stories add layers to our professional journey.
Plenty of fun activities balanced the technical powder coating sessions. These moments were not only enjoyable but also essential for team building and recharging our creative energies. On Tuesday afternoon, we learned about the graffiti and the artists behind the works in Ghent. Afterward, we tried it ourselves and let our creativity go wild. Just as those in the powder coating industry experiment with new techniques to achieve the perfect finish, we let creativity guide us, too.
A Virtual Reality experience allowed us to explore activities such as bowling, archery, clay dove shooting, baseball, etc. They also offer group games and ‘the plank’ – a simulation of a fall from the top of a skyscraper in New York – which provides a challenge for some. Lastly, the group enjoyed a chocolate workshop where we learned about chocolate and made pralines, a Belgian delicacy. Incidentally, the topics of virtual reality and hands-on experience closely align with the hands-on approach often required for advanced powder coating processes.
Fantastic dinners marked our evenings, offering more than just delicious Belgian cuisine. They were an opportunity to build relationships, share insights, and foster a warm atmosphere. This emphasized the importance of personal connections in professional growth. Laughter and stories flowed freely, creating bonds lasting long after the conference—much like collaborative efforts enhance powder coating results.
The conference concluded with a visit to Protech’s Ghentian production plant. Seeing our team in action and understanding the intricacies of our coating lines for powder products was both educational and inspiring. It reinforced the high standards and dedication that highlight our commitment to innovation and quality in powder coating.
In short, the R&D conference in Ghent was a remarkable success. It blended knowledge-sharing, cultural exploration, and team bonding into an unforgettable experience. We’re already looking forward to the next event and the innovations with powder coating that it will bring. Thank you to all who attended and contributed to making this conference a highlight of the year.
