The Amazing Versatility of Powder Coatings

What is Powder Coating?
Powder coatings have presented a versatile alternative to liquid paint and are used in multiple industries. The powder is applied electrostatically and is then cured under heat – this allows the powder to flow and create a coating over the object in question.

Uses
You’ll find powder coatings everywhere, from the coatings of household appliances (your stove and oven, for instance), automobile parts, bicycle parts, even outdoor furniture. Any application in which durability in a range of harsh conditions is needed, powder coating is the perfect solution.

Powder coatings also find their place throughout manufacturing as well. Anti-corrosive powder coatings serve a number of uses, such as:

• Keeping pipes, pumps and containers that are often exposed to chemicals free of corrosion
• Coating the equipment used in waste treatment facilities
• When applied to steel, can serve as a replacement for stainless steel in architectural, municipal and food industries

Types
Powder coating is found under a number of names, including the following:

• Epoxy – This type of coating is perfect for impact resistance and corrosion prevention. However, it is not UV stable and, therefore, cannot be exposed to sunlight. It’s best used for indoor products and on factory equipment.
• Polyester – These are very common; many coatings are either polyester or a blend of polyester. These coatings hold up well in the elements.
• Acrylic – This is used for clear coats and offers good chemical resistance.
• Fluoropolymer – These coatings are the best for outdoor use of any powder coatings and are mainly used in outdoor industrial coatings.

Visual Differences in Coatings
There are basic types of visual results obtained by powder coating. Regular solid colors come in various levels of gloss. Chromes are the most reflective type of powder, but must be clear coated after curing or else the chrome will quickly oxidize. Candy colors are translucent and must be applied to reflective objects such as polished metal or chrome.

Veins and wrinkles provide a physical texture and can provide traction and functionality where grip is needed. Clear coats provide an extra layer of protection to powder coated pieces, or can be used to enhance looks as in the case of chrome coating.

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