Powder coating is a dry finishing process that protects surfaces from rust, corrosion, wear, and environmental elements for many years. It has several advantages over liquid paint, such as greater durability, wider color and texture options, and environmental safety. However, it requires a seasoned professional and proper equipment, which can be tricky to navigate.
A quality powder coating company understands the powder coating process and techniques. If you are looking for a powder coating specialist, make sure they don’t make these five mistakes. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top mistakes associated with the powder coating process, plus tips for avoiding them.
Improper Surface Preparation
Surface preparation is an essential step in the powder coating process. Proper pretreatment ensures the substrate is clean, dry, and free from contaminants like oil and rust. If contaminants are not removed properly, they can undermine the powder coating’s ability to adhere to the surface and become susceptible to peeling or flaking. F
Pretreatment is also done to smoothen a surface. Without this essential first step, the surface is more likely to be rough and uneven, making it difficult for the coating to spread uniformly.
Poor Powder Application
Applying powder coating in a very thick or thin layer can cause a poor finish. When it comes to the powder coating application, you must use the proper equipment and technique while adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines for thickness.
If the finish is extremely thick, it may result in an uneven appearance. Additionally, you may also have difficulties curing the object. The finish may become uneven after curing, causing the powder to chip, fade, crack, or peel more easily, reducing its durability.
If the finish is extremely thin, it won’t be able to provide adequate protection to the metal surface, increasing the risk of rust, corrosion, and other forms of damage. Moreover, a thin layer of powder coating may also cause adhesion and durability issues.
Inadequate Curing
Curing is a critical step in the powder coating process. The powder may not adhere properly if the curing temperature or time is not correct. Improper adhesion will make the coating more prone to chipping and cracking.
Choosing the Wrong Powder Coating
Powder coating comes in different colors, textures, and finishes. They also have varying properties, depending on the type of metal to be coated and the intended use. Factors like UV resistance, chemical resistance, and abrasion resistance are accorded to the object by different powder coatings. If you want to know the type of powder coating you need for your substrates, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll be happy to help.
Disregarding Safety Protocols
Powder coating can be dangerous, involving dangerous equipment and materials. This is why it is not suited for DIY projects and should be done only by an experienced operator. Having commercial-grade protective gear and following equipment safety protocols are essential to avoid accidents and injuries.
Get High-Quality, Durable, & Long-lasting Powder Coating Services in New Jersey
At Rusty Lions, we uphold the highest standards of powder coating for your metal & non-metal objects. With comprehensive pretreatment and powder coating options, you can rest assured of a quality and long-lasting finish aligning with your specifications every time. Contact us to learn more about our services.
