Powder coating accounts for 15 percent of industrial finishes throughout the nation. It has always been a popular option for protection, preservation and decoration, while offering the added benefit of being environmentally friendly. But how does powder coating in Preston, WA work to create advantages over other forms of color and sealing? This overview examines the properties of powder coating that make it optimal for protecting consumer products and heavy machinery alike.
Chemical makeup
Powder coating is a dry-finished process. Using a combination of polymer resin with curatives, pigment, flow modifiers and leveling agents, it is first melted and mixed. Once that is done, the material is heated in an extruder, and once it reaches the required time and temperature, it is spread out and rolled flat. As it cools, the material hardens and dries before being broken up into chips. The chips are milled and sieved into a fine powder until they produce a texture similar to baking flour.
Common polymers used for powder coating include polyester, polyurethane, polyester-epoxy, straight epoxy and acrylics. The choice of material often depends on the application of the powder-coated item, but some shops also prefer some combinations over others, too. All work the same way.
The Process
During powder coating, the powder undergoes an electrostatic charge with a gun applicator. This causes the powder to be attracted to grounded metals, which allows for easy application to the subject item. Once applied, the electrically-charged powder coating binds to the object through a chemical reaction. The result is increased density that coats the part or machine, hardening the surface.
There is also a fluid option for application. For this process, preheated parts are coated in fluidizing powder first and the coating is melted before the dry coating starts. It is used for more difficult projects which require greater intervention, and once applied, it takes a little longer to cure. Some items often require a post-curing process as well. But this method is just as effective and environmentally friendly as the dry options.
Advantages
Regular paints only coat the surface of furniture, car parts or staircases. There is no chemical bonding process, and the surface does not change or gain density. If you have outdoor furniture that is only painted, you will likely have to repaint every season to maintain its appearance—and it can still face corrosion. Powder coating does not have that limitation, as it becomes part of the furniture, not just a bit of color.
Powder coating is available in many colors and textures. While it is used primarily for metal products, it can also help fiberboard and plastics. Unlike liquid paint, it leaves items more resistant to moisture, impacts, corrosion, chemicals and even ultraviolet light. There are very few household or commercial items that would not benefit from powder coating.
If you are looking to enjoy the advantages of powder coating in Preston, WA, contact Powder Vision Inc. We provide estimates before performing work and are prepared to answer any questions you may have about our services.