All sorts of materials are powder coated these days. It is possible to cover a wide variety of products in powder, which will then set dry to create an even finish and a durable covering which is as good looking as it is protective. In fact, many powder coating service providers provide clear coatings as well as coloured ones. Ceramics, metals and plastics can all be powder coated, and the procedure now finds its way into many manufacturing processes for both industrial and consumer goods. However, there are some important questions to answer if you are considering powder coating your business's products.
How Does the Process Work?
A product that has been powder coated will have received an application of a dry, powdered paint compound that was mixed with pigments to create the finished colour. A part of the coating is also made up of specialist resins and fillers. These elements melt and subsequently fuse together during the curing process when the coating is heated up, thereby allowing a painted finish to be achieved. Unlike a normal paint application, electro-statically charged solid powder particles are sprayed onto the product using when a low-velocity air gun. The charge is essential to the way in which the coating works because it means that the powder particles are magnetically attracted to the surface being worked on.
Is Powder Coating Environmentally Responsible?
The high temperature needed for the curing process can mean that the energy requirement puts some people off powder coating. However, you should bear in mind that this is only needed for a short time and that reapplications are seldom required. In addition, unlike traditional wet-paint systems, the process of coating products with powder is seen as environmentally friendly due to the fact that it does not rely on the use of harmful solvents or chemicals. Furthermore, VOC emissions are also not considered to be problematic thanks to the electro-static charges involved.
Is It Really Hard Wearing?
Durability is one of the key factors in choosing a powder application. No matter which colour you choose, items coated in powder are highly resistant to cracking and peeling, even if they are placed in the full glare of sunlight. They also offer very high levels of resistance to abrasion, corrosion and chemical attack. Although these qualities vary according to the specific type of coating, the process is extremely hard wearing in most situations. Indeed, powder coatings are capable of exceeding the finish performance characteristics of any conventional, solvent-based alternatives.
