What is Powder Coating, How it Works and Why it Matters
It’s a visually busy world out there. Especially in the world of display manufacturing for live events, crazy busy trade shows, visually arresting music festivals, and eye-catching retail, all of which attention to detail is paramount.
One essential step that should never be overlooked when creating custom displays or fixtures is powder coating. Powder coating services not only add a visually appealing finish that can help your brand get noticed but also provides strength and durability when and where it matters most.
If you want to know more about the world of powder coating, exploring what it is, how it is done, and why it's crucial to incorporate it into your display manufacturing process, this is the place.
What is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a popular method of applying a protective and decorative finish to various surfaces, commonly used on metal objects. A dry, free-flowing powder is applied to a surface that is typically made from a mixture of finely grounded particles of pigment, resin, and other additives. But unlike traditional liquid paint, powder coating does not require solvents to keep the binder and filler parts in liquid suspension.
How Does Powder Coating Work?
The powder particles are electrically charged and adhere to the surface through an electrostatic process.
The most common way to apply powder coating is to use an electrostatic gun. The gun imparts a negative charge which is then sprayed toward the grounded object by mechanical or compressed air spraying. Then it is forced and accelerated toward the workpiece with a powerful electrostatic charge. There is a wide variety of spray nozzles and the type of nozzle will depend on the shape of the material and consistency of the paint.
The result is a coating that is much tougher than traditional paint which is why it’s so popular on bikes, motorcycles, spaceships, ocean liners, and everyday items such as door frames, building facades, kitchen, bathroom, and electrical fixtures. As you can see, these are items that can withstand a beating and with powder coating added to them, they can do so with confidence.
The powder coating process consists of several key steps:
Surface Preparation
Before applying the powder, the surface of the display must be properly cleaned and prepared. Any contaminants, such as dirt, grease, or rust, are removed to ensure optimal adhesion.
Electrostatic Application
The powder coating is applied using a special spray gun that imparts an electrostatic charge to the powder particles. This charge causes the powder to adhere uniformly to the surface, creating a consistent coating throughout.
Curing
After the powder has been applied, the display is placed in an oven where it is heated to a specific temperature. During this curing process, the powder melts and fuses into a smooth, continuous film, creating a strong bond with the surface.
Why is Powder Coating Important?
Powder coating has become an industry standard when it comes to long-lasting protection, and versatility while having an attractive finish. But when you consider the cost-effectiveness and the short production time it takes from start to finish, powder coating is a no-brainer.
Durability
One of the primary advantages of powder coating is its exceptional durability. The cured coating is highly resistant to chipping, peeling, and cracking, ensuring that your displays maintain their pristine appearance even in high-traffic environments.
Protection
Powder coating acts as a protective barrier, shielding your displays from corrosion, scratches, UV rays, moisture, and other environmental factors. This extends the lifespan of your displays, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Aesthetics
Powder coating offers a vast array of colors, finishes, and textures, allowing you to customize your displays to match your branding or design requirements. Whether you desire a sleek and glossy look or a textured, matte finish, powder coating can help you achieve the desired visual impact.
Eco-Friendly
Powder coating is a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional liquid paint. It produces minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and generates less waste, as unused powder can often be collected and reused.
Versatility
Powder coating can be applied to various materials commonly used in display manufacturing, such as metal, aluminum, steel, and some types of plastic. This versatility ensures that you can achieve a consistent and professional finish across different components of your displays.
Rock Steady. The Wizards Of Powder Coating.
Rock Steady isn't just about popping out displays for experiential spaces, retail spaces, and trade shows. Rock Steady creates magic. Rock Steady does soup-to-nuts. From design and engineering to lighting, fabrication, and installation. And we offer powder coating services too, right here in Long Beach, CA. Its durability, protective properties, aesthetic options, and eco-friendly nature make it an indispensable part of the manufacturing process so you can ensure that your displays stand the test of time - and stand out!
If you want to learn more about our powder coating services or see the process firsthand, contact Rock Steady.
