Powder Coating Aluminum & MetalAluminum powder coating is the technique of applying dry paint to an aluminum product by electrostatically charging the powder and spraying it unto the product. At last, aluminum and metal materials can be decorated with various designs - from wood grain to custom picturesque compositions - by the use of powder coating. The result is material that is both durable and versatile, one that can be utilized for nearly any purpose. The product results are superior when aluminum and metal are used, compared to other materials. Examples of powder coating aluminum products are aluminum windows for residential and commercial projects, appliances, furniture, elevator doors, decks and railings, and others. You can even powder coat aluminum parts such as aluminum wheels if cleaned and handled properly. Powder coating aluminum is easy to clean and maintain, especially easier than wood as it will not require painting or staining. Powder coating metal is a durable, high grade powder coating process that results in a finished product that is capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions such as extreme UV exposure, salt spray and heavy pollution. Wood grain powder coating on aluminum is available in a smooth or textured natural finish. Wood powder coating looks so realistic that you can’t believe it’s not wood. About 90% of materials that are powder coated are steel, aluminum or metal.
Metal powder coating entails: 1.) Part preparation (pre-treatment) 2.) Application of powder 3.) Curing
Powder coating metal pre-treatment process Prior to the actual powder coating aluminum step, the metal or aluminum product must be thoroughly cleaned which usually begins with completely removing grease and any existent coatings. It is essential to remove soil, metal oxides, oil, lubrication greases, etc. before moving forward with the metal powder coating process. It can be done by a variety of chemical and mechanical methods usually depending on product's size and material, the type of material to be cleaned and the expected function of the finalized product. Different powder coating applications may require alternate preparation methods, which may include abrasive blasting.
Powder coating metal application processes Following the pre-treatment step mentioned above, the product is then placed in advanced powder coating machines and the powder particles melt and coalesce to form a continuous film. The powder treatment will effectively apply the design chosen to use. One has the option of creating a desired design by choosing from a variety of powder coat colors and powder coating patterns. Commonly, the powder coating is applied to metal objects by spraying via an electrostatic gun. This tool adds a positive electric charge to the powder, which is then applied via spraying (using mechanical or compressed air) in proximity of the grounded object. Motivated by the electrostatic charge, the spray accelerates toward the product, which is then heated. As a result, the powder melts into a uniform film before being cooled to form a hard coating. Alternatively, one may heat the metal and then apply the powder onto the hot substrate by spraying. This method creates a uniform finish, resulting in the finest of decorative coatings.
Powder coating metal curing process The powder coating cure process requires a specific temperature for a certain length of time in order to reach full cure and establish the full film properties for which the material was designed. The curing schedule and process could vary according to the manufacturer's specifications of the product being cured. It also depends on the finish and level of dye, aluminum wood grain for example.
For more about Decoral Systems and the process, please read the powder coating FAQ (frequently asked questions) |