Industrial Powder Coating: Preparation Guidelines For Preventing Surface Finish Failure

Posted on: 10 January 2023

If you are planning on powder coating your equipment parts, structures or commercial products, choose a professional for the application. Powder coating is favoured as a surface finishing process because of its durability. Unlike other coats, this choice is not prone to cracking or peeling. Also, the powder is safe for the environment and free of common harmful solvents and toxins. In addition, powder coating offers diverse options for colours and textures. However, poor application can lead to an unreliable surface finish. Here are some tips for improving the final finish and preventing powder coating failure.

Plan for Proper Storage

Improper storage of the manufactured items before the powder coating will lead to surface deterioration. In general, most of the parts and products that are powder coated are metallic. Metals often experience rusting or oxidation in the presence of moisture, dirt and impurities. If the structure of the item is flimsy, the rust could result in holes and blisters. Therefore, consider choosing a clean and dry place to store your products before the powder coating project begins.

Clean Dirty Surfaces

You should clean the surfaces of your manufactured items before powder coating. The correct process for the clean-up will depend on the deposits accumulated on the material. For example, surface oil is common because of the lubrication during the machining process, and this problem can be resolved using water and soap. If the stains are deep or stubborn, such as paint or rust stops, consider using chemical solvents for deep cleaning. Weld flux, laser scale and machining splatters will require special equipment for removal before cleaning.

Consider Adhesion Issues

If you have a finely machined product to powder coat, you must think about improving adhesion. For instance, machined steel has a very smooth surface finish. Remember, powder coating might be durable, but the lack of adhesion during initial application will lead to premature peeling. If the equipment parts or commercial products pose this problem, consider increasing adhesion through abrasive blasting or chemical treatment. Abrasive blasting is a good choice because you can choose hard particles like steel shot or softer materials like walnut shells. If you opt for chemical treatment, ensure the selected compound will not damage your manufactured product. Finally, ensure the machines used for the powder coating process are tested thoroughly before the finishing work. Ensure the oven has clean air and stable heat, and calibrate the powder gun settings for consistency. This precaution will minimise losses, especially if you are not working with a seasoned operator. 

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