If you work in the manufacturing industry, you’ll most likely be facing a decision when it comes to how you want to finish your products. Coatings and finishes perform two functions: they protect the product from routine wear and tear, and they give it a professional appearance. Traditional painting methods are often relied on for this job, most likely because there are a few negative misconceptions about powder coatings. Let’s take a look at three of the most common misunderstandings surrounding professional powder coatings.
- Powder coatings are expensive. It is true that the equipment needed for regular and enhanced powder coatings is quite expensive, but after the initial investment, you’ll actually be saving money on finishing costs. Powder coating leaves very little waste behind; unlike paint, which can drip and spray everywhere, there is no sprayed distribution of materials in the powder coating finishing process. Even better, there are businesses that can perform your finishing for you if you don’t want to buy the equipment; because they’re able to save on materials, they’ll most likely charge less than traditional painters. The longevity of the finish can offset the powder coating cost, but you won’t be sacrificing quality for the sake of saving money.
- Powder coatings are more time-consuming than traditional painting methods. Many believe that powder coating takes a long time — and a lot of man-hours — to complete, but the truth is the opposite. The job can be done by a single employee if needed, and the time it takes to cure is not much different from the drying time of paint. Because each piece is cured in a high-temperature kiln or oven, you’ll be able to complete several pieces in a short amount of time. Powder coat cure time is further reduced with newer curing technologies, making it a more efficient and time-saving finishing method.
- Powder coating limits your ability to create finishes with different colors or textures. The pigmenting process used in powder finishes is very similar to those used in the manufacture of paint; this means that any paint shade or hue can be accomplished with powder coatings. You also have the ability to achieve metallic and textured professional finishes. Powder-coating colors and textures don’t limit your options; if anything, it expands them. Because the powder is cured in an oven, you can also use a base coat for custom finishes that are then topped with a clear coat to create depth.
Whether your business chooses liquid coatings or classic powder coatings, they’re sure to end up with a beautiful and professional finish. Hopefully, this article has gone a long way in assuaging your concerns over the powder coating method; the next time you need a professional finish, you’ll be able to go into the decision-making process with all the facts.
Say goodbye to subpar coatings. Act now and connect with Professional Finishing for superior powder and liquid coating services.