WHAT IS POWDER COATING?
Powder Coating is a method of applying a decorative and protective finish to commonly metal objects. The powder coating process uses very fine dry particles of resin with the pigment color of your choice. The resin powder is applied with a spray gun similar in concept to applying solvent based paint. However, powder coating uses an electrostatically charged technique in which the powders are positively charged as they move through the spray gun causing them to stick to the grounded metal part. The powder coated metal part is then placed in an oven for curing. During this time the powders are melted and fused together to form a very strong and durable finish. The parts are then allowed to cool and are ready for use immediately.
Why Powder Coating?
Powder coating is much more durable than other, more conventional paints. In fact, it is up to 10 times more durable than ordinary paint. It is extremely resistant to chips, scratches, abrasion, heat up to 200 degrees, UV light, and fuel and chemicals. Powder coating also has corrosion resistance properties which are difficult to achieve with liquid paints. Powder coatings come in a wide range of colors, including OEM, translucent, and metallic, as well as custom colors mixed to your specifications.
HOW LONG DOES A POWDER COAT LAST?
Finishes can last 10-15 years depending on pre-treatment and the type of powder used. Variables such as use, environment, and cleaning chemicals also factor into the overall life span of the powder coat finish.
WHAT CAN BE POWDER COATED?
Because the powder is cured under high heat any material that can withstand 400°F can be powder coated. Aluminum, bronze, copper, brass, titanium, and steel (including stainless, galvanized, anodized, and e-coat) can all be powder coated.
ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF POWDER?
Yes, there are three common types of powder to choose from.
Epoxy
- Used for parts requiring superior chemical resistance
- Typically cured at lower temperatures than polyester
- Can be partially cured for use as a primer
- Cannot be exposed to sunlight
Polyester
- Most common used resin for powder coats
- Great exterior durability and hardness
- Excellent chemical resistance
- Fairly easy to cure
Hybrid
- Used for parts requiring superior chemical resistance
- Typically cured at lower temperatures than polyester
- Can be partially cured for use as a primer
- Cannot be exposed to sunlight