When it comes to metals, some believe that powder coating is superior to painting to provide a professional-looking finish.
According to Patch.com:
“Powder coating is not only a convenient way to provide a polished, professional look to metal-manufactured products. But most metal-manufacturing industries have long adopted this tried-and-tested approach because of the many benefits that powder coating can offer over other painting methods. Read on to discover why powder coating is superior to painting metals.
“Although there are many different finishing options within the metal fabrication industry, powder coating is relatively new. Before this technology, nearly all metal was painted.Yet it was discovered that the paint did not bond very well to metal produced items, so you could only add so much paint on the surface until it reached its full thickness.
“In the 1940s and 1950s, powder coating was developed as an alternative to painting metal. The equipment used for this technology provides a much more uniform coating on metal than paint does, with a thicker coat that is highly durable and resistant to cracking, peeling, scratching, and rusting. The overspray can be recycled, which reduces the amount of paint wasted (as well as hazardous waste) and cuts down on expenses.
“How Does Powder Coating Work?
“The process consists of two steps: applying a coat of powder material to an item and then curing the powder. Applying the powder can be done using an electrostatic gun that sprays the powder, or a less common method involves dipping the items in a fluidized bed.
“Item curing involves heating the products in a gas-fired convection oven until the powder is dissolved and the film is smooth. Most powders need to be cured at 400 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes.
“But modern technologies developed would allow powders to be cured at 300 to 325 degrees, which will offer some significant energy savings. After curing, the items are then cooled off, and you’re treated to an amazingly smooth and durable finish on your metal items.The powder is used in a variety of resin bases such as hybrids, epoxies, polyesters, urethanes, and acrylics. An addition to a wide range of resin bases, powders are often available in several formulations and gloss types.
“You could pick between hammertone, smooth textures, veins, wrinkles, and peels. From old traditional styles to modern and contemporary style, the custom coating you want is most likely to be available.While powder coating can be used on a wide range of materials, it is a favorite for metal fabrication…”
