Simply put, powder coating refers to an electrostatic process of applying fine particles of pigment and resin to a metal surface. The powder coated pieces are then placed in oversized ovens to “cure”, resulting in a smooth and resilient coating. The process is quite a bit more involved, but you get the picture.
Unlike wet coating applications, powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. As such, there are no drying times needed and millage-buildup (thickness) is easier and exponentially quicker to achieve. And it gets even better. Due to the absence of these solvents, powder coating is environmentally friendlier than wet coatings systems.
The other main difference is the use of large ovens. Since powder coating is applied electrostatically, it needs a heating element for the powder to “flow” and form an anchored shell around the metal substrate.
100% Better! Although we may be a little subjective here, the powder coating process results in a more durable, more chip-resistant, and gosh darn-it, a better-looking finish than its wet coating counterpart.
The durability of powder coating is mainly attributed to the creation of a solid “anchor pattern” and the integration of its fusion-bonded properties. After abrasive blasting, the powder will integrate into the metal during the curing process, thereby interlocking the coating and the substrate. The resulting bond handles, bumps, abrasions, and impacts significantly better than wet coating applications.
Because Amazing Iron Works & Powder Coat’s typical powder coating system consists of a strong epoxy primer and high quality polyester topcoat, the finish is also more resilient to UV degradation, corrosion, and chemical erosion than wet paint. This weatherability allows powder coating to withstand extreme conditions much better than paint, thereby extending the substrate’s protected life.
Finally, since the powder is sprayed and cured in an oven, the resulting product has an even-finish across its horizontal and vertical surfaces with no signs of drips, runs, sags, or any other application traces. This protective finish is available in a wide variety of glosses, textures, and colors.
Any electrically conductive metal or material that can withstand 400° Fahrenheit without losing its integrity. This includes wrought iron, aluminum, and steel. Be aware that warping is a concern on very thin pieces. Contact Amazing Iron Works & Powder Coat with any of your questions or concerns.
As “anything metal” is nice way of describing what can be powder coated, it is also important to point out that seals, bushings, or accessory pieces made of plastic or rubber need to be removed prior to the powder coating process.
To keep powder away from threaded components or low-tolerance areas, high-temperature masking tape and silicon plugs are used. Any project requirements or masking concerns should be addressed prior to the onset of any job.
Powder coating can cover up minor scratches and small imperfections. However, as with most coatings, the end-result is only as good as the surface it is applied to. Weld splatter, grind marks, tack welds, and poor craftsmanship will still show through.
Of course, Amazing Iron Works & Powder Coat handles big and small pieces as well as large and small quantities. Be assured, each order is given the same care and attention regardless of the size or quantity.
Please feel free to call Amazing Iron Works & Powder Coat directly at (702) 430-9078. We are powder coating experts and love to share our knowledge and experience.