What is Powder Coating?
This is a painting method utilizing powdered polymer resin that will bond to part surfaces. We offer Electrostatic Spray equipment to coat both ferrous and nonferrous metals.
Why Powder Coat?
Powder coating is an extremely durable, scratch resistant, chemical and UV resistant coating that is also very attractive. Formulations vary depending on the requirement for the part being coated. For example, Epoxies are good for mechanical items, but don't do well in direct sun. Urethanes and Polyesters provide excellent weather-ability. As this is not a liquid coating, there are no evaporating solvents or chemicals, making it environmentally safer and friendly as there are no OVC's emitted into the air.
What is the Powder Coating process?
This is a step process, beginning with a wash and pretreatment with iron phosphate, then rinsed with ed-ionized water and sealer. Once the part is dried in the dry off oven, the next step is to apply the powder via an electrostatic application that is achieved by charging the powder with an electrode to create an ion cloud, causing the powder particles to pass through this cloud and pick up a negative charge. As the parts are grounded to the conveyor causing an electrostatic attraction of the powder particles to the part. After powder is applied, part will enter a curing oven to melt, cross link and bond the powder to the part's surface. Final step is to cool the part for the finished coating.
What types of coatings are available?
We can offer a wide variety of formulations, textures, gloss levels and colors of powder for application. Commonly used formulations applied here include epoxy, hybrid, urethane and polyester. We can help you select the right formulation for your specific application needs.
How long does the process take?
Our goal is to complete the process for your item within 2-3 days of receipt to have ready for shipment. Lead times may vary depending on lead time for the formulations and materials required to complete your order.
What are the color options?
Virtually any color, texture and gloss level can be matched. We carry several hundred colors from DuPont, Cardinal an Tiger, capable of matching the color of powder coating for parts that were painted with traditional methods. For custom colors, we suggest larger batches for cost feasibility, and longer lead times. We are happy to help you with the customization for any of your orders.
What makes Powder Coating a Superior method?
Powder coating is a more cost effective process for parts because:
- parts are cured within minutes of exiting the oven.
- powder coating provides superior edge coverage
- Color consistency is obtainable part to part
- No drips, runs or sags, therefore, reject rate is very low
- No paint sludge to dispose of; powder can be reclaimed and recycled.