Despite being a perfect finishing alternative with plenty of benefits, many people still cannot answer the questions, what are powder coatings and how are they applied to produce ideal results? Fortunately, this article will enable you to know more about powder coatings and what they do.
What Are Powder Coatings?
Powder coating is a dry coating procedure mostly utilized on industrial equipment as a metal finish. An electrostatic method is used to apply the powder coating as a dry powder, subsequently cured using heat. It is well-known for producing high-quality finishes, both functionally and aesthetically.
Two Types of Powder Coatings
What are powder coatings? Differentiating between the two types will help you gain a better understanding of this question. The first type is the thermoplastic coat finish, which becomes liquid and incredibly soft when heated. The powder coating is reversible and reusable due to this process.
Thermoplastic coatings are thicker and thus more durable compared to thermoset coatings. As a result, they may be suited for various materials, including auto parts, metal, and refrigerators.
On the other hand, Thermoset powder is unique in that it develops chemical bonds when cured, making it almost impossible to recycle. Powder coatings are considered 100% solids, yet unlike liquid coatings, they do not need solvents in their formation. They can also withstand high temperatures since the bonds keep them from melting. When compared to thermoplastics, this type is significantly cheaper.
The Application Process
Once you are aware of the answer to what are powder coatings, you can easily comprehend the application process needed to achieve quality results. The first process defines how effectively the powder coating clings to the metal surface.
Cleaning and preparing the surface are done in various ways, like a phosphate rinse, followed by a running water rinse. After that, the powder is applied using a spray gun, and the curing process begins.
Benefits
It is an environmentally friendly alternative since it is recyclable and reusable. Powder coatings do not discharge toxic organic chemicals into the atmosphere. While safety equipment is still necessary, it doesn’t pose a significant health risk like other finishes. Powder coating is cost-effective compared to other finishes and lasts longer. They are also suitable for indoor and outdoor uses.
Applying powder coating on metals achieves a perfectly polished effect, making it very easy to clean because it deters chemicals and moisture from destroying the surface. To learn more, contact our team today.