Powder coating as a finishing process has experienced a surge in popularity. This rise can be attributed to its seamless application, providing a flawless and resilient finish that appeals to a wide range of industries and consumers. Below we’ll explore the process of powder coating and why it has made it such a popular finishing method across industries.
Central to our powder coating process is the unique blend of the powder itself. This composition includes polymer resin, curatives, pigments, flow modifiers, and other additives. These components undergo a meticulous blending, cooling, and grinding process to create a fine powder with a texture reminiscent of flour.
Step 2: Pre-Application Preparation
Before the powder coating application begins, thorough preparation of the item's surface is crucial. This involves the removal of debris and rust through a phosphate wash. Beyond mere cleaning, this step neutralises pH levels and primes the metal surface for the impending powder application.
The application phase is dominated by Electrostatic Spray Deposition (ESD), employing specialised spray guns. These guns impart an electrostatic charge to the powder particles, magnetically drawing them to the grounded metal surface. The result is a uniform and adhesive coating.
The introduction of heat initiates the curing process, causing the powder coating to melt and undergo a chemical reaction. This reaction forms long molecular chains with heightened cross-link density, imparting remarkable resilience to the coated products. The end result is a finish characterised by exceptional durability.
If you’d like to invest in powder coating for your project, get in touch with UK Powder Coating Services. Contact us on 01440 706281 or reach out via email at info@ukpowdercoatingservices.co.uk.