Process Overview
- Preparation: Surface preparation is critical for powder coating. It involves cleaning the substrate to remove any dirt, oil, rust, or old paint. This can be done through methods such as sandblasting, chemical cleaning, or mechanical abrasion.
- Application: The powder coating material is applied using a spray gun that imparts an electrostatic charge to the powder particles. This charge causes the particles to adhere uniformly to the grounded substrate, creating a smooth and even coating.
- Curing: After application, the coated parts are transferred to an oven where they are subjected to heat. The heat melts the powder particles, allowing them to flow and form a continuous film. The curing process typically takes place at temperatures ranging from 300 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (150 to 232 degrees Celsius) for 10 to 30 minutes.
- Cooling and Inspection: Once cured, the coated parts are allowed to cool before undergoing inspection for quality control. This may involve checking for uniformity of coating, thickness, adhesion, and appearance.
