Powder coating is a type of dry finishing process that we use to apply a decorative and protective finish to a wide range of materials, including aluminum, steel and metal for automotive, industrial, and residential applications. The purpose of powder coating is to create a durable and attractive finish that provides protection againt corrosion, wear, and weathering. Call today to let us help you protect your investment! Powder colors can be seen at prismaticpowders.com.
Powder Coating Process
1. Preparation or pre-treatment:
Preparation involves removal of oil, dirt, lubrication greases, metal oxides, rust, or old paint. This step is essential prior to the powder coating process. It can be done by a variety of chemical and mechanical methods. The selection of the method depends on the size and the material of the part being powder coated; as well as, the type of impurities to be removed and the performance requirement of the finished product.
2. Powder application:
The most common way of applying the powder coating to metal objects is to spray the powder using an electrostatic gun. The gun imparts a negative charge to the powder, which is then sprayed towards the grounded object by compressed air and then accelerated toward the workpiece by the powerful electrostatic charge. After the entire project is covered, it is cured.
3. Curing:
When a thermosetting powder is exposed to elevated temperature, it begins to melt or what we like to refer to as flows out, and then chemically reacts to form a higher molecular weight polymer in a network-like structure. This cure process, called crosslinking, requires a certain temperature for a certain length of time in order to reach full cure and establish the full film properties for which the material was designed. Normally the powders cure at 390° F for 10 minutes. The curing schedule could vary according to the manufacturer’s specifications. We make sure all parts reach required temp and cure for required time specification to ensure a quality job.