Sometimes working in the powder coating industry can be difficult. A few customers have had a bad experience at an alternative outfit and they want to know what makes your process better than what they had in the past.

The question that is typically asked goes like this:

What is your powder coating process? 

It’s a great question and an awesome chance to explain the science behind powder coating.

Step 1 – Cleanliness

If you want the best possible finish with your powder coating, it all starts with CLEANLINESS. That sounds like something your mother would say right?

Obviously the process for preparing each part depends on the base material, metals and “others” – like fiberglass. Typically, the part is thoroughly cleaned to remove and oil or grease on the surface.

The next part is called “etching“. This process removes any surface oxides and makes sure there is more surface area for the powder coating to stick to. After the part is etched, the part is cleaned again.

Step 2 – Preparing part for coat application

Once the part is properly cleaned to receive coating, we move on to prepare for the coat application. Manufacturers of powder coating systems use a special blend of polymer resin. They also use requisite curatives and pigments to create each individual color and the finish your blessed heart desires.

Because the color and finish of the powder is determined at the manufacturing facility based on you order, the finished powder used on your project can not be changed or it will produce and uneven result.

(Make sure your coater uses the same powder from start to finish of your project)

Step 3 – Powder Coating Application

Say the words, “Electromagnetic properties” – sounds awesome huh?

Well, the powder that is placed inside of a powder coating paint gun charges the particles using either friction or an electrical source. Science makes the powder stick!

Next, the part that is being coated is grounded to provide an opposite charge that will attract the particles as they are sprayed. The thickness of the application will vary depending on whether the coating is external or internal, or the type of environment that the part will be used in.

The powder will continue to stick to the surface of the part as long as it is grounded, which allows for multiple sprays to cover the part. This helps with the powder coating process. 

Step 4 – Curing

Once the part is completely coated it is placed in an oven which heats the coating to a minimum of 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the powder reaches this temperature it melts and flows together, forming long chemical chains which give the coating its rigidity and durability.

As it cools, the surface of  the finish takes on a gel-like consistency until it reaches room temperature and is completely cured. Once again – science prevails!

Most powder coating finishes will not melt again once they have cured, meaning that they can be used in a wide range of applications and environments without cause for concern.

Powder coating is a scientifically proven finishing process. It requires specialized tools to achieve the electromagnetic charge for a strong bond.

Powder coating does offer a wide range of color and finish options – from glossy to matte. Powder coating also provides a more durable finish that is both corrosion and scratch resistant so your coating will last for years to come.

After your part has been powder coated, years later it can easily cleaned with warm soapy water and restored to its original shine within minutes.

Powder coating is a fantastic way to finish and protect parts made from nearly any material. It is suitable even in harsh environments where it may come in contact with chemicals or solvents. Your coating professional can adjust the thickness of the coating to stand up to industrial applications.

Thank you for reading about the answer to “What is your powder coating process?” 

Make sure you are taking your parts to a knowledgeable and experienced powder coater to ensure proper curing and longevity. For more detailed information on powder coating in Utah, please contact us at Superior Powder Coating LLC.

You can visit us online at www.superiorpowdercoatingutah.com or reach us directly at 801.687.9110