What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is an environmentally friendly alternative to solvent based paint (and in some cases plating).  The powder is made of dry, finely ground organic resins and pigments.  The powder is most commonly applied by spraying with a gun that electro statically charges the powder as it exits the tip.  In most cases, the powder is applied directly to a clean, bare metal surface; with no primer or base coat (powder coating can also be applied to glass, ceramics, temperature resistant plastics and even wood).  The part that is being coated is electrically grounded, causing the charged powder to cling to it.  After coating, the part with the loose powder clinging to it is placed in the oven to cure.  In the curing process, the powder melts and flows over the surface of the object without drips, runs or sags.  The result is a highly durable and attractive finish in a wide variety of colors, glosses and textures.

Why Powder Coating?

Because of the need to reduce the introduction of air pollutants and hazardous waste into the environment, a variety of alternative methods for applying finishes are being developed.  Chief among these new methods is powder coating.  Powder coating needs no VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) in any part of the process.  This eliminates one of the major causes of air pollution today.  The most common coatings are made from polyesters, urethanes or epoxies as a base.  These are stable materials that have extremely low or no volatiles, the air in the work area does not have to be vented outside.  This can offer significant savings in heating and cooling costs.  Also, with conventional solvent based coating methods, overspray is wasted material.  Powder overspray on the other hand can be collected and reused, thereby achieving 95 percent greater usage of materials.

Where is Powder Coating being used?

Chances are you have quite a few things at home that have a powder coat finish.  It is used extensively on many consumer products such as appliances, furniture, fixtures, automotive parts, sporting goods, etc.  Commercial applications include store fixtures and office furniture.  It is used on farm implements and in many industrial applications where durability and high resistance to chemical and environmental stress are needed.  Powder coating can also be an excellent choice for refinishing projects such s bicycles, motorcycles, automotive parts, indoor and outdoor metal furniture, etc.

Caring for a Powder Coat finish:

While most powder coated finishes are tougher and much more flexible then conventional solvent based paints, they are about the same hardness as automotive paint, so they will scratch.  To clean a powder coated surface, use the same care methods you would to clean your car.  Gently wash with a clean, soft cloth and a mild detergent followed by a clear water rinse.  Even though most powder coatings are highly resistant, certain solvents can harm them.  Avoid contact with nail polish remover, paint or lacquer thinner, motor oils, transmission and brake fluids or parts cleaning fluids.  If any of these should contact the powder coated surface, immediately wipe the area with a soft, clean cloth and wash as described above.