KATS Coatings Reborn: Riteks Powers Up Water‑Based Coatings for Various Industries
March 05,2025
Summary In August 2024, Riteks revitalized the renowned KATS Coatings line through a strategic acquisition, bringing back its high‑performance, eco‑friendly water‑based protective coatings to serve key markets including automotive, aerospace, industrial, pipeline, and locomotive applications. Leveraging plant‑ and polymer‑based technologies, KATS Coatings deliver long‑lasting corrosion protection—up to 36 months for some formulas—while maintaining zero VOC content and biodegradability. This acquisition expands Riteks’ portfolio and positions the company to meet rising demand for sustainable, high‑performance coatings across diverse heavy‑duty industries.
Reviving an Industry Icon
When Riteks acquired KATS Coatings in August 2024, they didn’t just buy a product line—they resurrected a legacy of innovation in water‑based protective coatings. Originally lauded for its plant‑based polymer technology, KATS Coatings set the standard for clear, no‑yellowing rust prevention on ferrous and non‑ferrous metals. With Riteks’ backing, KATS is now poised to scale production, invest in R&D, and re‑enter markets where eco‑friendly solutions are rapidly overtaking solvent‑based alternatives.
Why Water‑Based Coatings Matter
Water‑based coatings have surged in popularity due to stringent environmental regulations and growing sustainability mandates. They offer superior adhesion, fast dry times, and drastically reduced VOC emissions compared to traditional solvent systems. For industries facing ever‑tighter emissions targets—such as automotive OEMs, aerospace fabricators, and locomotive manufacturers—the shift to water‑based protective coatings isn’t optional; it’s imperative.
Market Focus and Key Applications
Automotive Coatings
KATS 6028 provides up to three years of clear, satin‑finish rust prevention for vehicle underbodies and exposed components, applied easily via HVLP or airless spray systems. OEMs and fleet operators benefit from reduced downtime and maintenance costs thanks to its non‑flammable, biodegradable formulation.
KATS Chrome 1
Aerospace-Grade Protection
Aircraft structures demand coatings that resist fuel, hydraulic fluids, and temperature extremes. KATS water‑based primers and sealants offer excellent chemical and corrosion resistance without adding significant weight—an essential factor in aerospace engineering.
Industrial Equipment
From heavy machinery to storage tanks, industrial clients require durable coatings that withstand abrasion, impact, and chemical exposure. KATS 5000 Series temporary coatings deliver fast‑dry, removable protection during transit and assembly, reducing scratch‑ and impact‑related damage on painted surfaces and chrome parts.
Pipeline Coating
Pipelines traverse harsh environments and require coatings with long‑term corrosion resistance. KATS permanent water‑based solutions protect buried or aboveground pipelines for years, mitigating costly leaks and failures without compromising on environmental safety.
Locomotive Applications
Railway operators rely on coatings that can endure constant vibration, UV exposure, and extreme weather. KATS water‑based rust preventives form a robust barrier on undercarriages and metal exteriors, extending maintenance intervals and protecting critical components in service.
As Riteks breathes new life into the KATS Coatings legacy, industries from automotive to aerospace—and everything from pipelines to locomotives—stand to gain from a truly sustainable, water‑based solution that never cuts corners on performance. By combining Riteks’ robust supply chain and technical expertise with KATS’ proven polymer innovations, we’re not just protecting metal; we’re safeguarding operations, cutting maintenance costs, and helping our customers meet ever‑tougher environmental standards. Whether you’re an OEM seeking lightweight corrosion resistance or a rail operator chasing longer maintenance intervals, the revitalized KATS line delivers the reliability you need with the eco‑conscience you demand. Partner with Riteks today, and let’s coat the future—cleanly, efficiently, and with confidence.
