Powder coating is a versatile, highly effective method for coating metal fabrication projects. For most finished products and components, powder coating is a more durable, more attractive coating than wet paint. It also has other advantages. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of powder coating for metal fabrication projects.
Benefits of Powder Coating for Metal Fabrication
Full Coverage
Powder coating is applied through a different process than wet paint. As the name suggests, powder coating is first applied to the product or component as a dry powder. This powder is electrostatically charged, so it sticks to all exposed surfaces, including even the hardest to reach places. Then, the powder is heated in an oven, where it melts and sticks to the surface. This process allows powder coating to cover the product completely and smoothly. There’s no need for additional coats and there’s no risk of unsightly drips or runs.
More Efficient
Powder coating is also a more efficient process than other types of painting or coating. Since the powder sticks to the surface electrostatically, there’s no excess paint lost during the process. There’s no dripping and also no drying time needed. While wet paint may require several hours to fully dry, powder coated parts can be fully cured and cooled in as little as ten minutes.
Any Color or Texture
Powder coating gives you unlimited options for the final appearance of your product or component. In addition to a wide range of colors and shades, there are also many different finishes available, including flat, satin, glossy, metallic, clear, iridescent, and even glitter. This can help you achieve the final result that you’re looking for, without extra expense. A shiny metallic finish can help the part or component keep its high-quality appearance while still protecting it from damage, or a matte yellow finish can help meet safety requirements. There are many, many different options available.
Protection from Corrosion
Corrosion affects all metals. Corrosion can occur simply through contact with oxygen in the air, resulting in oxidation. However, covering the surface of metals can help to protect from oxidation and corrosion. Powder coating completely covers the metal surface, preventing the air from contacting the metal and thereby preventing oxidation from occurring. Powder coatings can also help to prevent other types of corrosion, such as corrosion from acids or bases that come into contact with the product. The powder coating layer forms a protective covering that can help to extend the life of the product.
Improved Durability
Corrosion isn’t the only damaging force that can affect metal fabricated parts and components. Scratches, abrasion and regular wear and tear can also damage metal fabricated parts over time. This is another benefit of powder coating for metal fabricated parts and products. The powder coating forms a protective layer over the component that helps to resist scratches and friction. This keeps the product looking like-new, longer.
Attractive Appearance
Besides added durability and corrosion resistance, powder coating is an easy way to give your part a finished, attractive appearance. Powder coating doesn’t require multiple coats like wet paint does. It goes on once and produces a smooth, uniform, clean appearance across the part or component. The curing process works quickly, so your part or component is ready for shipping or assembly fast.
There are many benefits to powder coating for metal fabrication projects. Powder coating is highly versatile, with many options for colors, finishes and textures. This process also works on all types of items, from large finished products to small components and everything in between. If you have questions about powder coating for your metal fabrication process, contact us. We’re happy to give you any information you need, and help you find the ideal powder coating for your project.
