Whether applying decorative or functional finishes, powder coatings provide protection to the metal substrates they cover. Powder coating is becoming increasingly popular among Michigan manufacturers. Applications of these fine particles of pigmented or plastic resin are gaining in practice, pushing it ahead of its traditional competitor. Increasingly, companies are coming to prefer it to solvent-based coatings.
Powder Coatings
Powder coatings do not require the help of a solvent or liquid carrier to provide protection to a component. Instead, they easily merge with agents. The organic powder utilizes electrostatic attraction, completely coating the metal substrate. The result improves flow characteristics, surface textures, and protection. Whether thermoplastic or thermosetting, these resins offer certain advantages over the once dominant solvent-based coatings.
Advantages over Solvent-Based Coatings
Fabricators and manufacturers are discovering the advantages of preferring a powder coating to the solvent-based option. In Michigan, professionals cite the following reasons for selecting powder over solvent coating.
No Solvents: The lack of solvents results in faster curing. This, in turn, increases the speed of the production line
Fewer Application Defects
Mechanical Results: A thicker coating that is both flexible and adaptive to the substrate
Environmentally Friendly: There is no emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This reduces substantially the risk of breathing hazards, fires and explosions. The powders are also recyclable
Economically Cost-Effective: There is less waste from overspray or spillage. In fact, the transfer efficiency is between 60% and 70%. Compare this to the 30-35% possible for solvent coatings
Quick Curing: Powder coatings cure within 20 minutes after exiting from the oven
The Superiority of Powder Coating
In Michigan shops and factories, powder coatings are increasingly taking over a market once held by solvent-based coatings. This preference for a powder coating owes its popularity to several factors. These fine particles provide a durable protective surface. They cure quickly and are friendly to the environment making them superior to their opponents.
