Powdercoated

Powdercoated refers to a surface finish created by applying a powder coating to a substrate and then curing it to form a durable film. The powder is a dry mixture of resin, pigment, and additives that is electrostatically charged and sprayed onto grounded parts, or applied in a fluidized bed for certain shapes. After application, the parts are heated, causing the powder to melt and chemically cross-link into a continuous coating.

The process typically uses epoxy, polyester, polyurethane, acrylic, or hybrid resins. Polyester-based powders are common for exterior parts due to improved weather resistance, while epoxy powders offer strong chemical resistance for interior applications. Coatings can be textured, matte, glossy, or metallic and are available in a wide range of colors. Typical dry film thickness ranges from about 40 to 100 micrometers (1.5 to 4 mils).

Preparation and application are important for adhesion and longevity. Substrates must be clean and properly pretreated, often with degreasing and conversion coatings such as phosphate or chromate treatments. The object to be coated must be electrically grounded to attract the powder, and overspray can be recovered and recycled.

Advantages of powder coating include high durability, corrosion resistance, and excellent color uniformity, with minimal environmental emissions since there are no solvents. It provides strong resistance to UV light (especially polyester powders) and can be applied to complex shapes.

Limitations include the need for curing heat, restricted coverage of deep internal cavities, and repair challenges on damaged areas. Powder coating is widely used on metal parts in automotive, architectural, household appliance, bicycle, and industrial applications.