To Paint Or To Powder Coating?

From cutting, bending, welding, grinding and polishing, metal fabricating can be a lengthy process. But sometimes there's an extra step at the end — painting. Some people pull out a can of liquid paint and a paintbrush to add the color they require. In fact, there is a more efficient and reliable method - powder coating.

Powder coating is a dry finishing process created by an electric charge that causes a dry powder to fuse to the surface of the metal. This is then baked in a curing oven to achieve a smooth coating. It is well known for providing high-quality finishes in terms of both functionality and overall look.

So, to paint or to powder coat? What's the best finish for your metal fabrication? Why choose powder coating finishes over paint?

Let's talk about the advantages of powder coating.

Durability

Powder coating is one of the longest lasting, and most color-durable quality finishes available on virtually any type of products you come in contact with each day. The chemical bonding that happens when a powder coating is applied creates a much more durable coating than finishes like paint. It can protect machinery as well as items used in the home on a daily basis. It can also withstand moisture and chemicals as well as extreme weather and physical impact. For this reason, it resists corrosion and other signs of wear like abrasions, scratches, and chips in the coating.

Thickness

The thickness of a powder coating depends almost entirely on the needs of the project. Unlike many other types of finishes, powder coating thickness can be adjusted. Generally speaking, powder coating is ideal for a project that calls for a thick finish – that's why we choose powder coating. It can produce much thicker coatings than conventional liquid coatings without running or sagging. Besides, it is also easy to adapt the coating thickness to meet the protective requirements of the project.

Longevity

Powder-coated items are extremely easy to maintain over an extended period of time. The longevity of these items will highly depend on several factors, including the environment in which the item is exposed, the quality of preparation, and the type of powder coating used. Different coatings also have varying lifespans. For instance, coatings with fluoropolymers and urethanes can last longer - they are designed to withstand extreme conditions and are better suited for outdoor items.

Time Saving

Powder coating has faster curing times - the powder is applied and then immediately cured, and that's it, so many manufacturers prefer powder coating over other painting methods. Powder coating typically cures in less than a half-hour, while it takes up to 24 hours for spray paint to dry and even longer for it to cure.

Cost Effective

In the long run, powder coating can save you a significant amount of money. Firstly, most jobs require only one coat. Fewer materials and less equipment help to low overall costs. Secondly, there's not much waste generated during the application process - low waste production means that waste removal costs are lower as well. Thirdly, powder bases have an extended shelf life, meaning they can be stored for future use without worrying about extra costs from not fully utilizing the coating inventory.

Safe Eco-friendly

Powder coating is one of the safest and most eco-friendly options available.

The powder is often reusable and recyclable, especially when it comes to thermoplastics. Besides, it also is less likely to be wasted with this type of finish - usually 5 percent or less. When it comes to others, like paint, overspray is common, and as much as 70 percent of the paint can be wasted that way.

Powder coating doesn't release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that could otherwise lead to environmental pollution and health problems, for the powder materials used in powder coating are completely free of VOCs. Meanwhile, powder coating doesn't require solvents that have potentially harmful chemicals in the same way paints do.

Polished Look

Powder coating makes it easier to maintain a polished shine on equipment, for it repels moisture, chemicals, and other harmful materials. Plus, it is easier to keep these powder coated items clean.