Powder_Coating.pptVIP

Powder Coating One of the most common methods of finishing metal surfaces. Many items used everyday are powder coated. Examples of Powder Coating Everyday items such as mailboxes, chairs, appliances, automotive parts, tools, and construction materials. Topics We will examine.. how the process works the benefits what major equipment it involves The Process A simple process, involving “spray painting” a fine plastic powder paint onto a metal surface. Typically the surface is steel, aluminum or iron. Most any surfaces can be coated, however, they must be able to withstand the high temperatures of the baking oven. Walk in oven Before coating the part, the surface must be cleaned. Often a sand blaster is used for this purpose. Parts must be totally free of contaminants that might effect the process such as grease, rust, oils, etc. As the powder leaves the gun it is charged with static electricity. This charge then attracts the powder to the surface that is being coated. After the parts are coated, they are then baked in an oven at about 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 45 minutes depending on the part. The actual part itself must reach these temperatures in order for curing to occur properly. While in the oven, the powder melts and flows into a smooth finish. Curing time is critical, because under curing will cause loss of adhesion, and over curing will cause the strength characteristics of the powder to decrease. Unlike painting, there are no runs or drips with powder coating, and due to the static charge, there is no need for primers. Additional clear coating and primers can be added to improve protection and depth. If a mistake is made before baking, the powder can simply be blown off with an air nozzle and reapplied. If the mistake is realized after baking, the part must be sandblasted or the coating must be burned off. Types of Powders There are two main types of powders used for different applications. Both types outperform most