Understanding the Powder Coating Process

Understanding the Powder Coating Process

The powder coating process closely resembles that of traditional liquid paint, with one notable distinction: the coating used is a dry powder rather than a liquid.

While conventional paint is sticky and contains solvents that help it adhere to the surface being painted, you may wonder how a dry powder manages to stick to a part.

The answer lies in electricity.

In the powder coating process, the part being coated is electrically grounded, while the powder being applied is electrostatically charged.

This electrical attraction causes the powder to cling to the part as it is propelled, forming a thin, even layer that can be built up to a specified thickness.

It’s almost like magic—but really, it’s just science!

Advantages of Powder Coating

Powder coating offers several advantages over traditional liquid paints:

• Cost-Effective Reusability: Unused powder can be collected and reused, making it more economical than liquid paint applications.
• Environmentally Friendly: The powder coating process generates no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), eliminating the need for recapture and making it safer for the environment.
• Enhanced Durability: Powder coating is significantly more durable and impact-resistant than liquid paint.

Steps in the Powder Coating Process

The powder coating process involves several essential steps:

1. Cleaning: Thorough cleaning of the part is crucial for proper powder adhesion. At Arizona Finishing, our state-of-the-art powder/paint line features a five-stage wash system that not only cleans the parts effectively but also etches them with zirconium crystals to ensure that the powder adheres like glue.
2. Application: After cleaning and drying, the part moves to the application booth, where the powder is applied to the desired thickness.
3. Curing: Once the powder is applied, the part is baked in a curing oven for approximately thirty minutes. Afterward, it cools to the touch and is ready for use or the next step in the manufacturing process.

Located in Tempe, Arizona, Arizona Finishing operates a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility for powder, liquid, and electrostatic coatings, serving industrial manufacturing clients.

By offering value-added services such as metal silk screening, cleanroom product assembly, and custom packaging, we truly are a one-stop shop for all your metal finishing needs.

Discover how Arizona Finishing can become an integral part of your company’s supply chain. Contact our sales department today for a free quote!