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How the Powder Coating Shop Works & FAQs

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Powder Coating by Frank T. Shop EquipmentWhen you need a sturdy, resilient coating for your metal pieces, powder coating is the best option available. Metal plating doesn’t last forever, and cheap plastic coatings are only temporary. Powder coating is a completely different process with its own rules and regulations. A powder coating shop is filled with equipment that sprays dry, free-flowing thermoset powder onto metal pieces before using heat to set it at an incredibly high temperature. Our shop is equipped with the best powder coating machinery on the market. We’ve gathered a few of our most-asked questions for this FAQ page, so take a look below to get a better understanding of how our process works.

Powder coating involves spraying a dry, durable coating onto a metal surface before curing it at high temperatures. There are three steps to this process: preparation, application, and curing.

  • Preparation requires cleaning the surface completely. This can include removing large debris in a blast room, which uses high-pressurized air to remove things like rust or old paint. Weak alkali and neutral detergent dips can help remove any residue and is used to chemically rinse the surface. Preparation differs based on the piece being coated.
  • Application can consist of one of two different processes: electrostatic deposition (ESD) or fluidized powder bed coating. The process which is used depends on the type of metal being coated.
  • Curing is the process of heating the powder coating until it melts into a hard, impenetrable surface. Each application lends to a specific type of curing, but you’re always going to see high heat applied to the coating until it melts.
One of the main benefits of powder coating is that you can choose from a variety of finishes. Any colors or finishes can be chosen according to what works best in your personal situation. Powder coating finishes are also ideal for logos. Matte, satin, glossy, textured, and metallic finishes are all available. Frank has also developed his own proprietary “ultra smooth” look. Just ask him about it and he can explain what the finished product will look like. Frank developed this technique himself and doesn’t share his secrets on how he achieves the “ultra smooth” look with anyone.

There are plenty of benefits that come with powder coating, including:

  • An incredibly durable surface
  • Customizable finishes
  • Smaller environmental impact through less hazardous waste
  • Fast turnaround time
  • Affordable

Powder coating is perfect for high-traffic areas where your metal piece will see a lot of wear. Because there’s a lack of chemical solvent being used, the environmental impact of powder coating is nonexistent. You can feel better about powder coating, and you’ll get a much more consistent result!

The curing process causes thermoset powder to chemically change into a hard coating, which presents a series of important benefits. It’s important to note that this coating cannot be reheated or transformed; once the powder has been melted, its chemical compound can’t be altered. This makes it more advantageous than thermoplastics, which can be reformed through heat. Thermoset coating is almost exclusively applied via the ESD method.

Have more questions? Send us an email or call us today!

Feel free to contact us with any questions you might have. Frank T. is knowledgeable in the industry, and you can feel secure in trusting him to get the job done.

Contact Powder Coating by Frank T. Today

When Ordering:

  • Before a part is delivered to Powder Coating by Frank T., it must be completely disassembled. Any parts that we must disassemble will be billed at $50 per hour with a minimum of 1 hour. Likewise, any request to have parts disassembled will be charged with that same fee.
  • All parts must be metal and free of body filler. Any imperfection such as dents or scratches could compromise our powder coating, though we may be able to fill minor damages on a case-by-case basis.

When Packing:

Powder Coating by Frank T. is not liable for any parts damaged throughout the packing and shipping process. Be sure to use quality materials while packing, and ensure they are handled with care. If your parts arrive damaged, we will inform you as soon as it’s unpacked. You will be responsible to file a claim with your shipping courier.

Disclaimers:

All pieces must be disassembled, and all plastic components must be removed. This could include seals, gaskets, or other connecting parts. Metal parts intended for custom coating need to be able to withstand temperatures of up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While we treat all metal parts with the utmost care, it is possible that cast aluminum and magnesium may cause out-gassing or bubbling during our coating process. By purchasing, you recognize that Powder Coating by Frank T. is not liable for any damages caused by out-gassing. Any cleaning, disassembling, or dismantling of your parts will be billed at $50 per hour with a minimum of one hour. Powder Coating by Frank T. is not responsible or liable for any damages resulting from the packing or shipping process. By working with us, you as the purchaser acknowledge any pre-existing damages or imperfections of your parts. You also release any liability for damages and agree that Powder Coating by Frank T. is not responsible for any such damage.