Products & Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about powder coating? Look below for answers.
What is powder coating?
Powder coating is a dry finishing process that uses finely ground powders of pigment and resin to coat the surface. It is an electrostatically charged technique in which the powder is charged so that the powder particles adhere to the metal surface and are then melted and fused together in the curing process.
Since its introduction in North America almost 40 years ago, powder coating has become the fastest growing finishing technology, currently representing over 15 percent of the total industrial finishing market. More and more finishing engineers, for a countless array of products, have switched from liquid finishing to powder coating as a way to produce a high quality and durable finish while maximizing production, cutting costs, improving efficiency, and complying with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.
What is the powder coating process?
First, the part is media blasted to a SP10 profile, and racked on metal carts or trolleys. A specialized spray gun is used to apply the powder coating. The powder is charged by an electrode which creates an ion cloud. The powder particles pass through this ion cloud and pick up a negative charge. Since the parts are grounded, there is an electrostatic attraction of the powder particle to the part. The powder evenly adheres to the parts. The part now enters the curing oven where the powder gels, cross links, cures and bonds to the surface of the part. Once the part exits the oven and cools, the finish is complete.
What are the benefits of powder coating over wet painting?
Powder coating offers superior scratch resistance, superior chemical resistance, and superior impact resistance.
Does powder coating prevent rust?
Powder coating is durable and very long-lasting depending on its environment and how the items are used. It is not, however, a rust preventative. Pre-treatment and/or primer coating is helpful for prolonging the life of the coating.
What can be powder coated?
- Marine Applications
- Iron Duct Work
- Ammunition Boxes
- Bicycle Frames
- Architectural Signage
- Dune Buggy Frames
- Industrial Fabrications
- Fences
- Gates
- Tools
- Car Chassis
- Bed Frames
- Railings
- Fixtures
- Store Fronts
- Wrought Iron Work
- Automotive Parts
- Window Frames
- Trade Show Signs
- Lanai Furniture
- Cabinet Hardware
- Retail Displays
Nearly anything made of metal can be powder coated!
Are there environmental concerns with the powder coating process?
Powder coating is an "environmental friendly" process! While liquid finishes contain solvents which have pollutants known as volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), powder coating contains no solvents and releases negligible amounts, if any, of VOC’s into the atmosphere. In addition, most powder coating overspray that does not adhere to the part can be retrieved and reused, virtually eliminating the waste commonly found in liquid finishing processes.
What colors and textures are available?
There is an endless variety of colors and textures available from many manufacturers. There are gloss range options, color options, and texture options to select from when deciding what is right for your job. Custom colors can be made. Most manufacturers offer a multitude of colors that are readily available. The most common textured powders available are wrinkles and hammertones. These powders are not only for cosmetic uses, but also are the best choice for parts that will get some abuse or have minor imperfections or blemishes.
Before and After Photos
