When it comes to choosing the right coating for your project, there are a lot of different factors to consider. The material itself, the durability of the coating, and the longevity of the finish are all important to think about. But one of the best coatings available today is a powder coating. It offers a great finish and can be used on a variety of metals. So if you have questions about this type of coating, keep reading for some commonly asked questions and answers.
What exactly is powder coating? Powder coating is a dry finishing process — this type of coating represents over 15% of the industrial finishing market, so it’s a pretty popular choice. This finishing process is a type of coating that is applied as a dry powder. Generally, the dry powder is applied electrostatically and cured under heat, forming a solid layer. This results in a hard finish and it’s stronger than traditional paint coatings. Because it’s a powder and not like liquid coatings, this finishing process can be used on most metals.
How does the power stick? One of the most common questions people ask is how the powder sticks to the metal. The powder is able to stick to the surface because first, the surface is sandblasted. This process removes things like dirt and old finishes as well as carves the surface slightly so the powder has something to grip onto. Then, the powder is applied electrostatically while the metal is hooked up to a ground wire. This forces the powder to cling to the metal while it’s cured and finished.
Is this type of finishing durable? Compared to other liquid coatings, like traditional paint, a powder finishing is extremely durable. When the powder is properly prepped and cured, the finish will be hard and durable. So durable, in fact, that the metal surface can be dented and the powder finish won’t be damaged. It’s also possible to give a thicker coating with powder than liquids because it doesn’t run. There are different powders to choose from, but most are able to withstand tough conditions, like rain, heat, cold, and ultraviolet rays.
As you can see, there are plenty of benefits to choosing a professional powder coating. If you’re looking for a finish that is durable, looks nice, and is cost-efficient, powder is the coating choice you want to make.