Thanks to its resistance to harsh chemicals and ability to protect against corrosion, powder coating has become one of most popular finishes for heavy-duty equipment. Manufacturers in industries ranging from agriculture to defense utilize this technique to give their offerings superior protection compared to traditional liquid paints. In addition, powder coating’s low VOC content makes it a more ecologically friendly option.
Just as there are many varieties of paint, there also are many powder coating finish types for assorted applications. However, no matter what powder coating material types are used, they share the same basic application process: A dry mixture of pigments, polymer resins, curatives and other additives is applied with a spray gun.
The sprayer also applies an electrostatic charge to the particles, which enables each one to stick to the surface of the grounded metal component being coated. The product is then placed in a curing oven, where intense heat activates the bonding agents that create the finish. The result is an extraordinarily strong, durable coating that resists the elements as well as caustic chemicals.
Industrial Powder Coating Options
There are several powder coat texture types that can fulfill a manufacturer’s particular needs. Here is a quick summary of the most common options and for what they are typically used.
- Epoxies — Although this material offers exceptional adhesion to metals and some of the highest levels of protection against corrosion, it doesn’t weather as well as others. Under intense sunlight, epoxies tend to lose their colors and become chalky. This means they are typically reserved for indoor applications, such as for medical devices.
- Polyesters — Polyesters are the most commonly used powders, thanks to their resilience in outdoor environments and cost-effectiveness. They are also known for their flexibility and impact resistance. Available in a virtually limitless number of colors and gloss levels, this material can be found on everything from automotive parts to power transmission equipment to household appliances.
- Super-durable polyesters — Compared to the standard polyester coating, super-durable polyesters can last as much as 10 years longer in terms of fading and glossiness. They can also withstand more punishment than average polyester, which make them ideal for finishing items ranging from patio furniture to agricultural machinery.
- Epoxy-polyester hybrids — Mixing epoxies and polyesters gives this coating many benefits of both. Hybrids usually have the same level of corrosion resistance as an epoxy but with the added benefit of polyester’s weather protection. These options are normally found on power tools, furniture and interior lighting fixtures.
- Fluoropolymers — With their high degree of weather resistance and color retention, this finishing is most commonly used for exterior architectural projects. However, the relative difficulty of bonding fluoropolymers to metals mean that a primer is always required for application.
- Urethanes — Smoother than other varieties after curing, this material can be found on fuel tanks, as well as doorknobs and automotive wheel rims. However, it tends to be costlier than other types, with more potential complications during the curing process.
Turn to Rhinehart Finishing for Complete Expertise
Rhinehart Finishing has extensive experience with the different types of powder coating, so you can trust that we can handle your finishing needs. As one of the leading experts in the industry, we hold a unique status as an approved applicator of military-grade powder coats. This means we have the skills and the expertise to deliver quality, superior services regardless of the application. Click here to learn more about our industrial powder coating capabilities. Then, give us a call to get started on your next project.