FAQ

Powder Coating is the newest most durable way to paint. It is applied as a free flowing powder. Powder coating covers different types of metal or aluminum with a polyester or epoxy powder. Then it is heated to fuse into a protective and durable layer. 

  The main difference between a conventional liquid paint and powder coating is that the powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. Powder coating applied electrostatically and cured under heat to produce a hard finish that is much more durable and longer lasting than conventional paint. With powder coating 

The coating is typically applied electrostatically and is then cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a “skin.” The powder may be a thermoplastic or a thermoset polymer. It is usually used to create a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint. With powder coating there will be no running or sagging. Powder coating overspray can be recycled making it possible to achieve nearly 100% use of the coating. There is also a wide range of specialty effects that can be accomplished using powder coating. 

  The Powder coating process requires baking at high temperatures to cure the powder. Therefore, plastic or other materials that can melt cannot be powder coated. It is mostly used for metals and aluminums. 

  Step 1 - Sandblasting preps a metal surface in need of restoration.  It removes grime, rust, dirt, and corrosion.  It also removes existing paint or powder coated finishes.  All types of metal can be blasted such as alloys, aluminum, steel, iron, and more. We also use a chemical strip process prior to abrasive blasting to keep the blast time down to a minimum.  If you have a new metal project you can sometimes by-pass this step. The point of sandblasting is to remove any mil-scale rust and rough up the surface prior to coating. This will help the powder adhere to the metal. 

Step 2 – Prepping, consists of applying a metal chemical solution that will neutralize surface damage, cleans off debris, and will prevent rusting and corrosion. This is an important step.

Step 3 – Powder, When fully prepped and dry the metal project will be ready for powder coating. The coating is done through an electrolysis process. The metal object is positively charged helping the powder to be attracted to it and bond in the next stage. There are many colors and brands to choose from. It al depends on the customers needs and the end use of the metal. There are specific colors for indoor and outdoor use, as well as clear coats and primers. We are here to help guide you to what you will need. 

Step 4 – Cure it. Cure times for metal range depending on the size of the oven and how long it takes the oven to get to temp. Typically degrees for curing range from 250 to 400 which makes the powder heat up enough to bond. Once the correct temperature is achieved it takes 15 to 30 minutes for the metal piece to achieve this state. 

 Aside from basic manufacturing safety standards (ex: don't breathe it in or get it on your skin), powders are extremely safe to handle and use. The powders are non-volatile, non-toxic, and completely safe while being sprayed or stored. Powder coatings can be recycled or disposed of in landfills. They have very low impact on the atmosphere. They are not hazardous. 

Yet, wet paint can be highly flammable, carcinogenic, and very hazardous to employees if handled incorrectly. In contrast, powder coatings have little to no short or long-term health, fire, or workplace dangers.

  Ceramic coating is high temperature coating sometimes referred to as exhaust coating, header coating or high heat coating. Ceramic coating is designed to prevent corrosion of exhaust systems and engine components. It is a thick layer that helps to prevent scratching or damage.