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Powder Coating the Finish of the Future
Powder coating was developed in response to the environmental
problems associated with solvent based coatings. European
regulations will essentially prohibit the use of solvent based
paints in the near future. The cost of meeting these regulations,
the increased cost of petrochemical based products, and there
high waste factor will greatly increase the cost of wet spray
painting.
The process of finishing metal surfaces with dry powder is
not new. It has been used in this country since the mid 50’s.
It began with the coating of pipe, for corrosion protection.
With the heed to reduce air pollution it has developed further.
Currently, powder applications are being implemented into
the industrial and automotive industries with great success
in quality and cost control. The lack of vapors being released
allows for a vertual 'holiday-free,’ consistent, and
run free finish. There are distinctive cost advantages to
powder coating when compared to solvent laden liquid coating,
powder coating material is received by the applicator in a
ready to use state, thus eliminating any variable in mixing
Spray booths can be cleaned with air as opposed to harmful
solvents. Absolutely no solvents are used, eliminating the
need for expensive air pollution control equipment. The absence
of solvents eliminates the fire hazard associated with paint
shops.
The powder coating environment is much safer due to the elimination
of solvents from the process. This increased employee and
environmental safety reduces insurance and permit costs compared
to those of the wet spray industry
Since powder coated parts are fully cured when they leave
the oven, unlike many wet coatings which have a post cure
ageing requirements, the total processing time is shorter,
this results in a shorter turn round time.
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