Industrial Powder Coating: A Modern Finishing Solution

Industrial Powder Coating: A Modern Finishing Solution

Industrial powder coating is an innovative method for finishing products through the application of fine dry particles, often referred to as “dry painting.”

What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is a type of coating applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. Unlike conventional liquid paint, powder coating doesn’t require solvents to keep the binder and filler in a liquid suspension.

The coating is typically applied electrostatically and then cured under heat, allowing it to flow and form a durable “skin.”

Rather than applying paint in a wet form, we utilize a modern, clean electrostatic powder coating process that leverages the attraction between charged particles fused together.

This method is generally less prone to errors compared to traditional wet spray techniques.

Furthermore, powder coating eliminates the need for harmful chemicals.

Once the powder is applied, it is baked in an industrial oven, where it melts and creates a plastic-like layer around the metal part.

Unlike wet spray painting, the powder dries quickly, so the coated item is ready for handling and packaging as soon as it exits the oven and cools down.

There’s no need for re-coating or additional curing time.

Can Anything Be Powder Coated?

There are limitations regarding the materials suitable for powder coating.

Many substances cannot withstand the extreme heat of the process.

Each part is baked at temperatures exceeding 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause wood, plastic, rubber, and other similar materials to melt or burn.

Therefore, components should be made of metal that can endure the high temperatures of our bake oven.

If your part contains rubber or plastic elements, we recommend avoiding them, as we cannot guarantee their integrity after powder coating.

Why Choose Powder Coating Over Spray Painting?

Industrial powder coating is simply superior to wet spray painting in numerous ways.

If your part can be powder coated, there’s little reason to choose any other method.

Powder coating is often more cost-effective in the long run, as it typically requires only a single application, unlike traditional paint, which may need several re-coats over its lifespan.

Why Is Baking Necessary for Powder Coated Parts?

The baking process causes the powder to melt, forming a protective layer around the part.

During this stage, the powder bonds to itself and the metal component, enhancing durability and giving the finish a professional appearance.

Proper baking is crucial; if the powder isn’t baked correctly, it won’t bond adequately, leading to potential weaknesses and increased susceptibility to chipping.

At Arizona Finishing, we ensure that every part receives meticulous attention.

We carefully regulate the oven temperature to optimize the bonding process for maximum efficiency.