Technical

AS 3715: 2025 Revision Aligning Powder Coating Standards with Environmental Corrosivity

Published On
25 September 2025
10 min read

Australia’s diverse and often extreme environmental conditions demand robust standards for architectural finishes. The newly revised AS 3715: 2025 Thermoset Powder Coatings for Architectural Aluminium responds to this need by integrating modern coating technologies with a more precise environmental assessment framework, notably through alignment with AS 4312 Atmospheric Corrosivity Zones in Australia.

Replacing the 2002 version this revision reflects significant advancements in powder coating systems, offering stakeholders a clearer, performance-based approach to coating selection and quality assurance.

Why the Revision Was Necessary
Since 2002, powder coating technologies have evolved dramatically. New formulations offer superior resistance to UV degradation, corrosion, and mechanical wear, however, without a Standard that accounted for environmental variability, even the best coatings could underperform. The 2025 revision ensures that coatings are matched to the actual corrosivity of the installation environment, improving durability and reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Spotlight on AS 4312: Environmental Corrosivity Categories
A major enhancement in AS 3715: 2025 is the adoption of AS 4312’s corrosivity categories to guide coating selection.

AS 4312 and AS 3715 define atmospheric zones based on expected corrosion rates. AGWA has
included this information in this Quick Reference Table to assist in explaining the changes: 

Importantly, distance alone no longer defines ‘coastal’. Factors like humidity, pollution, and microclimate now play a role, allowing for more accurate site classification and coating selection.

What Else Has changed?

1. Section 4 Product Selection and Classification Guide

A new table helps users match powder coating classifications to building types and environmental zones. For example:

  • Class 2–9 buildings must use coatings rated L2 or higher (eg, Dulux Duratec, Interpon D2525).
  • Class 1 and Class 10 buildings require an environmental assessment before selecting a coating level.

2. Clauses 8.6.1.2 and 8.3.3 Appearance Criteria and Imperfections

These now include detailed acceptance/rejection criteria based on viewing distance, also clarifying that defects in the aluminium substrate present before coating cannot be used to reject the final finish.

What It Means for You?

Whether you're an aluminium fabricator, architect, or builder, this revision offers a clearer path to compliance and better long-term performance. Manufacturers applying powder coatings in-house should review the full Standard to ensure alignment with the new requirements.