What is Powder Coating? – A Complete Guide to Understanding This Rust-proof and Durable Painting Technique
Powder coating is a rust- and moisture-resistant paint coating that is used on many different types of objects, including automobiles, industrial machines, and even farm equipment.
If you aren’t familiar with this paint coating process, then you might be wondering what it is and why it’s used in so many different situations.
After reading this article, you will understand how powder coating works and the various benefits that it offers to the people who implement it.
What is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a method of coating an object with a thin layer of liquid metal that is then cured and dried. The process starts with a powder that is either aluminium oxide or another oxide of aluminium.
This powder is then mixed with a liquid, such as nitrocellulose lacquer. After the powder and liquid are combined, the liquid aluminium is added to the powder, which causes the powder and liquid to react.
This reaction causes additional gases to be released from the powder, which causes the coating to be expelled from nozzles. During this process, the powder and liquid react with each other and a new coating is created.
The coating that is created is a thin layer that is deposited onto the object. This layer is either a single colour or multiple colours, depending on the coating that is used.
Why Use Powder Coating?
Powder coating is used to create a wide variety of items. Some of the common items that are coated using powder are automobiles, machinery, food and beverage cans, kitchen equipment, medical equipment, and aircraft parts.
Another reason why powder coating is used is to create corrosion-resistant products. Powder coating is used to create industrial machinery and tools, aircraft parts, and even buildings that have an iron pipe structure.
Different Types of Powder Coating
Powder coating comes in a variety of different types, including powder coating with a baked finish, powder coating with an automotive finish, powder coating with an electrostatic finish, and powder coating with a hot dip zinc finish.
The main differences between these types of coating are the colours, finish, and level of protection that they provide. – Powder coating with a baked finish is a type of coating that cures at a low temperature, around 200 to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it suitable for coating large items.
This coating is available in a variety of colours, such as black, grey, and silver. Powder coating with an automotive finish is used on items that are meant to be exposed to the elements, such as automobiles and aircraft.
This coating is suitable for outdoor applications and can be used in a variety of colours, including red, blue, and yellow. Powder coating with an electrostatic finish is used to create products that are coated with a design, such as cars, trucks, furniture, and sports equipment.
A static charge is created on the coating to create the design. Powder coating with a hot dip zinc finish is the most durable of the powder coating types.
Advantages of Powder Coating
Durable
Powder coating can create durable products that are not prone to corrosion. This coating is a great choice for items that are exposed to the elements, such as buildings, bridges, and aircraft.
Strong Construction
Powder coating can create strong products with a strong construction. These types of coatings are popular in industries that are reliant on heavy machinery, such as the construction industry.
Multiple Colour Options
Powder coating enables you to create a variety of different colours. This is ideal for companies that manufacture a wide variety of products, such as food and beverage companies.
Weatherproof
Powder coating is designed to be weatherproof, making it a better choice than paint in many situations.
Cost-Effective
Powder coating is an expensive process, but it is expected to last much longer than paint. This coating is the most cost-effective type of coating.
Easy to Maintain
Powder coating requires very little maintenance. In fact, most people say that it is easier to maintain than paint.
Conclusion
Powder coating is a durable, rust- and moisture-resistant coating that is used on a wide variety of different types of products.
It is suitable for outdoor applications and can be used in a variety of colours, making it a popular option for companies that manufacture a wide variety of products.
Powder coating is a more expensive coating than paint, but it is also expected to last much longer than paint.
Check out our blog posts; What is Shot Blasting and Wet Paint Finishing
