What is Powder Coating? Pros and Cons Explained
Most people wonder whether to paint or powder coat their metal finishes. Although painting is well known to many as a traditional approach to metal finishes, powder coating presents a more advanced way of doing this. So what exactly does powder coating mean?
In a nutshell, powder coating is a process primarily used on industrial metal equipment to provide high-quality finishes, enhance functionality and overall look. This process involves the application of dry powder through electrostatic spraying and heating. Once powder coated, the finishes are both sturdy and flexible.
This process can also be applied to metal, concrete, and plastic. It’s suitable for interior and exterior finishes and is quite cost-effective compared to other options. The two types of powder coating include:
- Thermoset powder coating: Thermoset powder is distinct in that, once cured, it develops chemical bonds, rendering it difficult to recycle. Because of the bonds, they can be used in high-heat environments without melting. As compared to thermoplastic, this form is much less expensive.
- Thermoplastic powder coating: The finishes melt when heated, thus eliminating strong bonds. This makes the coating both reversible and reusable. In comparison to thermoset coatings, thermoplastic coatings are thicker and therefore long-lasting. As a result, they may be used with a wide range of materials, including metal, car parts, and even refrigerators.
The Powder Coating Process
The first and possibly most significant phase in the method is preparation. This step determines how perfectly the powder coating adheres to the metal surface. Washing and prepping the surface can be done in a variety of ways. A degreaser and/or phosphate rinse, accompanied by a simple water rinse, is common. After that, the powder is applied with the electrostatic spray gun, and the curing process starts.
Other methods may also be used in the coating process and may be unique depending on the project.
Pros and Cons of Powder Coating
Apart from durability, powder coating is a preferred method for material fabrication. Also, the process is:
- Environmentally friendly: Today, everyone desires eco-friendly processes in manufacturing, and powder coating offers exactly that. Thermoplastic coatings can be reshaped very quickly. Unlike paint, which has a number of oversprays, the powder is used precisely with reduced wastage (5 percent less wastage).
- Cost-effective: Although the upfront expenditure may seem significant, over time, the cost of powder coating is much lower compared to other options
- Well-polished finishes: When powder coating metal, achieving a polished appearance is easy. It’s really simple to clean because it repels toxins, moisture, and other elements.
Despite the many benefits of this form of finish, the drawbacks can not be overlooked. The thing is, you can only achieve efficiency if the right coating tools, such as a quality powder coating oven.
- It may be challenging to control the thickness of the coating, leading to uneven levels of thickness and texture.
- Although recycling powder coatings is good, it may lead to color mixes that may not achieve the intended appearance.
Final Thought
Powder coating is an efficient method in metal finishes and is preferred by many industry leaders. If you’re still stuck in the olden days of metal painting, try this incredible process, and you’ll never look back.
