Powder Coated Aluminum
Powder coating is a type of coating that is applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. Unlike conventional liquid paint which is delivered via an evaporating solvent, powder coating is typically applied electrostatically and then cured under heat. 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.
Liquid paint is composed of pigment, resin, and solvent. Powder paint is simply pigment encapsulated in a powdered resin and is thus simply thought of as “Paint without the solvent.” Powder coatings and liquid coatings made from the same resin and pigment will have practically the same performance characteristics. For a given resin, the decision to use a powder or liquid coating is mainly a question of application technique.
How Powder Coating Process Works
Unlike liquid paint, powder coating doesn’t require a solvent. So it’s very important that the surface of every extrusion is properly pre-treated.
1) Pre-treat the Aluminum Surface
The pre-treatment process involves removing dust, grease, and any other foreign particles. That way, the technician can ensure good adhesion and the powder coat won’t flake.
2) Apply Powder to the Extrusions
The technician sprays the powder through an electrostatic spray gun. The positive charge makes the powder bond with an electrically-grounded extrusion.
3) Heat Aluminum Profiles in the Curing Oven
The technician puts the extrusions into a large curing oven. The oven bakes the extrusions until you have a uniformly-melted coating.
4) Cool the Extrusions
After the extrusions are baked, the technician removes them so they can cool off. Once cool, you’ll have a smooth, hardened coating.