Industrial powder coating is a preferred finishing method for OEM metal components and assemblies. This process eliminates VOC emissions and results in more durable, longer-lasting surfaces compared to traditional painting methods. It can also integrate forming, welding, and inspection processes to deliver production-ready enclosures.
At Metal Works of High Point (MWHP), we offer powder coating and other finishing services to protect enclosures in harsh operational settings. Learn why OEMs in telecommunications, material handling, and other applications rely on our powder coating services for their enclosures.
Enhancing Protection in Electronics Housings
Electronic enclosures need to withstand a range of environmental conditions without failing and exposing interior contents to moisture, chemicals, or mechanical damage. Special powder formulations can be applied via electrostatic application methods to create a protective film across the surface of each housing. This allows for the following:
Heat dissipation and fewer hotspots that can otherwise jeopardize long-term performance and safety
Moisture, chemical, and UV damage resistance
High-quality appearance without blotchiness, wear, or rust
Efficient application, with the ability to recover excess coating material for reuse
MWHP follows ISO-aligned cure cycles and processes to deliver high-quality results for OEM electronics enclosures.
Ensuring Compliance with Industry-Specific Standards
Powder coating enhances the finish of electronics enclosures in line with varying performance and quality standards. For instance, enclosures for outdoor applications may require metal-rich primers to ensure sufficient protection in environmental extremes. ASTM and AAMA standards also set requirements for adhesion, weather, and other performance characteristics.
At MWHP, we hold ISO 9001 certification and continuously monitor the coating thickness, adhesion, and color consistency of enclosures as part of our commitment to excellent product quality. This allows us to provide durable, hygienic finishes that adhere to regulatory standards.
Addressing Custom Enclosure Coating Requirements
Size, dimensional requirements, and aesthetics all play a role in delivering effective enclosures. With powder coating, this can involve using different colors, textures, and thicknesses to achieve the desired finish. Customization can also address needs relating to corrosion resistance, durability, or resistance to specific environmental hazards.
MWHP can apply special primers and topcoats in-house to meet your performance needs. We also conduct adhesion and flexibility testing on enclosures, along with weld inspections and CMM verification processes.
Powder Coating for OEMs by Metal Works of High Point
Powder coating outperforms liquid paint coatings, providing more reliable protection while resisting chemicals and withstanding demanding operating conditions. Metal Works of High Point specializes in high-quality industrial powder coating and has extensive finishing and metal fabrication expertise. Our company is ISO 9001:2015 certified and provides continuous monitoring and testing to guarantee quality work for OEMs. Through our bar-coded scheduling software and ERP technology systems, customers can track products in “real time” at any point in the process, from design to manufacturing.
Choose Metal Works of High Point for custom work and attention to detail from a trusted provider. Contact us today to tell us what you’re looking for and to get pricing details.
In the competitive OEM manufacturing landscape, shorter lead times give companies a market advantage. Outsourcing powder coating can introduce delays due to transportation between locations, vendor scheduling conflicts, and quality inconsistencies. Bringing in-house powder coating into the production workflow addresses these issues directly, allowing for seamless transitions between manufacturing stages. With parts moving smoothly from fabrication into finishing, cycle times can be reduced by as much as 30%.
Learn more about how choosing a full-service fabrication partner can help you overcome the challenges of having separate providers for each production process.
Challenges of Outsourced Powder Coating
Having a separate powder coating provider often complicates OEM production schedules. Off-site finishing services inherently increase lead times due to transportation logistics, vendor backlogs, and lack of coordination with fabrication teams. These delays can create significant disruptions, particularly in industries that rely on rapid turnaround or short-run production, such as medical equipment and electronics manufacturing.
Quality control also becomes a challenge when outsourcing powder coating services. Vendors may fail to meet an OEM’s specific standards for consistency, documentation, and durability, resulting in increased rates of rework or rejection. In addition, transporting uncoated parts introduces risks such as damage or contamination, which can further escalate costs. Many vendors also may prioritize larger-volume orders, potentially leaving smaller OEM projects waiting.
Due to these ongoing concerns, many OEMs prefer to consolidate fabrication and finishing services under a single provider.
Benefits of In-House Powder Coating
Integrating powder coating into in-house processes solves many outsourcing challenges and offers substantial benefits. By eliminating transportation between vendors, companies immediately remove delays associated with external finishing providers. This integration supports a smoother transition between CNC fabrication, welding, and coating stages, enabling parts to be finished and assembled on the same day.
Having powder coating capabilities in-house also grants greater control over product quality. Internal inspections before and after coating ensure compliance with OEM specifications, drastically reducing rejection rates and rework expenses. Additionally, reclaiming overspray powder can save materials and cut waste, lowering total production costs.
The primary advantages of performing fabrication and powder coating under one roof include:
Reduction of cycle times by up to 30%
Improved quality control and reduced rejects
Lower material costs through overspray recovery
Enhanced flexibility for urgent orders or design changes
Increased profitability and competitive market positioning
These reduced lead times, more consistent quality, and cost savings combine to give OEMs a competitive edge. For manufacturing partners, integrating powder coating into internal workflows positions clients for sustainable growth.
How Metal Works of High Point Streamlines Production
At Metal Works of High Point, we consolidate metal fabrication and powder coating services under one roof, supporting faster, higher-quality deliveries for tight OEM timelines. We offer turnkey metal fabrication capabilities that include:
With no delays caused by external vendors, finished products reach clients faster and with greater reliability. Immediately following fabrication, we prepare, coat, and cure components in-house, significantly reducing lead times.
Our robust internal inspection system utilizes coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) to ensure every part meets precise specifications. Additionally, we reclaim and reuse overspray powder to reduce waste and cut costs.
Typical OEM projects completed by Metal Works experience lead time reductions of 20–30% or more. For instance, our rapid prototyping, quick design iteration, and efficient production workflows can complete a custom control panel order in just two days, whereas traditionally it would require five days through external vendors.
Faster Fabrication, Greater Control With Metal Works of High Point
By incorporating in-house powder coating, Metal Works of High Point shortens OEM lead times, supports consistent high quality, and reduces overall production costs. Our integrated approach eliminates delays and offers significant savings in both time and material costs. Request a quote to get started on a turnkey metal fabrication and powder coating project.
Since 1992, Metal Works of High Point has provided durable powder coating services for various industries and applications. To help our customers better understand the difference between powder coat vs. paint, we will focus on the suitability, benefits, and cost-effectiveness of these processes for industrial use.
There are several factors to consider when choosing between wet paint and powder coatings. We cover some of the top considerations below.
What Is Wet Paint?
Wet paint is easy to apply and is the most affordable coating option available. In this process, a pressure sprayer applies a liquid solvent containing suspended color particles to a dry metal surface.
Both powder coating and the wet paint process can cover an entire surface. However, with wet painting, the painted metal does not need to be heated for curing. As the metal dries, the solvent evaporates. While the drying process is considerably longer with wet paint, it does not require any heating equipment.
Process
This versatile process is used to adhere liquid paint to a metal surface. Unlike wall painting, wet paint in an industrial setting utilizes a pump, spray, or pressurized vessel to achieve an even coating. Several paint layers may be needed, resulting in more time and labor costs compared to powder coating.
Benefits
Easy Color Matching. Wet paint offers superior color-matching capabilities, making precise touchups easier.
More Color Options. Mixing wet paint creates more color options than the limited pigments available for powder coatings.
Self-Drying Products. Wet paint can dry without needing additional equipment, which is ideal for finishing products that cannot withstand heat treatments.
Ideal Coating Thickness. Unlike powder coatings, wet paint can be applied in thin layers, accommodating metal pieces that must fit together.
Greater Accessibility. Wet painting is more accessible than powder coating, as it does not require high-tech, expensive equipment to achieve desired results.
What Is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is made of finely ground particles of colored acrylics, polyurethane, or polyesters. The material is given a positive charge and dry-sprayed directly onto metal products that have received a negative charge. The process results in statically charged colored particles that cling to the negatively charged metal.
Once a metal product receives a uniform coat of the desired thickness, it is rapidly heated to cure and melt the powder to the metal. This curing and heating process typically takes about 10 minutes, depending on product size.
Process
Powder coating requires the application of a dry, free-floating organic powder via electrostatic attraction. To ensure an even coating, the piece must first be thoroughly cleaned.
The powder can consist of the following materials:
Acrylic
Epoxy
Polyester
Polyester-Epoxy
Polyurethane
A high-voltage electric surge charges the dry powder, distributing an evenly sprayed layer over the entire product surface. To complete the process, the coating is cured in an oven (up to 400 F) for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. During curing, the powder polymerizes, sets, and flows around the object to form a thick protective layer.
Benefits
Color Retention. Powder coating allows the colors to stay truer longer than wet paint.
Durability. Once set, powder is stronger than wet paint and can resist corrosion, rust, and damage, offering a more uniform coating that lasts.
Low Maintenance. Powder coating only requires routine washing with soap and water, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals.
Variety of Texture Materials. Powder provides more texture options than other coatings and is ideal for steps, ramps, and other metal products.
Coating Consistency. The process ensures even, smooth finishes without application marks.
Efficiency. Since powder particles are easily attracted to the metal surface, very little powder gets lost to over-spraying, making powder coating more efficient than wet paint. The process only requires one quick application with minimal drying time.
Environmentally Friendly. Powder that falls to the ground can be reused, significantly reducing waste. The particles do not contain volatile organic compounds often found in paints, making the coating a more sustainable option.
Quality Coating Services by Metal Works
Metal Works of High Point Inc. offers reliable powder coating services that promote high-quality protective and decorative finishes in precision components. Contact us for more details about our manufacturing capabilities and learn how our services can meet the demands of your specific application.
At Metal Works of High Point, Inc., we pride ourselves on being a premier manufacturer of custom-fabricated metal components and assemblies. We offer a range of manufacturing capabilities and fine-tune our powder coating and finishing services to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
This article explores the benefits of powder coating and its growing impact on quality control, cost savings, and overall efficiency.
What is In-House Powder Coating?
Powder coating involves applying dry paint to a surface. Unlike traditional wet paint applications, powder coating involves spraying a solid powder coating directly onto the base material to create a hard, highly protective layer. This reliable, cost-effective method is widely used in different industries.
The powder used in this process is made from finely ground pigments and resin that are electrostatically charged and then sprayed onto the grounded metal parts. The charged powder particles cling to the metal surface, allowing for even coverage with minimal waste.
The parts are then cured in an oven to melt the powder into a smooth, aesthetically pleasing finish. This process is environmentally friendly, producing fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than traditional liquid coatings.
Advantages of In-House Powder Coating in OEM Metal Parts
Cost Savings
Keeping powder coating services in-house allows for more accurate project quoting, eliminating unexpected expenses and additional markups. We work to fully understand project requirements and realize cost-effective in-house powder coating solutions that meet your specific needs.
We intentionally reduce our dependence on third-party schedules, mitigating the potential delays and additional costs associated with outsourcing. We then pass these cost savings on to our customers.
Quality Control
Outsourcing powder coating can compromise quality control, especially with metal finishing projects. Offsite processes often result in surface imperfections and uneven paint coverage, particularly with gloss finishes.
Our in-house powder coating specialists can identify and address these issues before painting. This close supervision prevents problems like color mismatches and non-uniform thickness, resulting in a high-quality finish.
Having an in-house team also allows for continuous improvement and fine-tuning of the process, ensuring that the highest standards are consistently met and client needs are met.
Reduction of Waste & Rework
Offsite powder coating often leads to overlooked imperfections, only discovered after returning to the fabricator, increasing lead time and costs. Shipping metal parts to and from an offsite vendor can cause damage, further adding to waste and rework.
Specialists at our metal fabrication facility can quickly detect and correct defects before painting, reducing waste and rework and maintaining the integrity of the parts used in the fabrication process. Our streamlined approach reduces material wastage and minimizes environmental impact for more sustainable manufacturing practices.
Speed & Efficiency
Outsourcing powder coating extends lead times and can delay product delivery by days or even weeks. With in-house powder coating, the fabrication process can be completed in as little as a day depending on order size.
Outsourcing powder coatings also creates fluctuations in lead times. When you choose in-house powder coating, you can count on us to deliver finished products faster than the competition.
Customer Service & Satisfaction
In-house powder coating allows fabrication teams to oversee the entire project from start to finish. This direct management results in higher-quality manufacturing outcomes.
Investing in in-house powder coating is a significant value-add for fabricators committed to offering clients better service and superior products. This approach guarantees that any issues are promptly communicated and addressed. Customer feedback is directly integrated into the process, fostering a collaborative and responsive service environment.
Conclusion
In-house powder coating offers numerous advantages, including cost savings, improved quality control, reduced waste and rework, and faster turnaround times. At Metal Works of High Point, we’re equipped to handle all your custom finishing needs, including high-quality decorative or protective finishes fabricated to your exact specifications.
For more information about our custom finishing capabilities, contact us. You can also request a quote based on your project’s requirements.
Sheet metal fabrication transforms raw materials into functional and aesthetic components. This complex technique unfolds through various stages, each contributing to the emergence of the final product. Among these steps, one pivotal stage stands out finishing. The process enhances the appearance and longevity of the fabricated part and patterns it to fit the projects requirements.
One finishing method that has been gaining recognition for its unique properties and superior results is powder coating. This technique has revolutionized the industry, providing an unparalleled blend of durability, aesthetics, and environmental benefits.
This blog will delve deeper into powder coating, exploring its process and advantages in sheet metal fabrication.
What Is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a metal finishing process that involves the application of dry, free-flowing, colored powder to a fabricated part or product. The application is done through electrostatic means, where the powder particles are charged and sprayed onto the product’s surface. The coated metal then undergoes heat curing to harden it, forming a solid “skin” coating.
The process begins with preparing the surface of the metal product. This often involves cleaning and sanding the surface to ensure the powder adheres properly. Then, the coating is applied using an electrostatic spray gun. After the application, the product is placed in an oven undergoing heat curing. This process hardens the powder, forming a solid, durable, and visually appealing skin coating.
Powder Coating vs. Conventional Liquid Paint
While both conventional liquid paint and powder coating are used for metal finishing, there are notable differences between them. Primarily, powder coating does not require a solvent. This is because the coating is applied via electrostatic means, which allows the powder to adhere to the surface of the product without the need for a liquid medium.
Once sprayed, the product is cured under heat to form the solid skin coating. This process eliminates waiting for the product to dry, as would be the case with liquid paint.
Powder Coating in Sheet Metal Fabrication
Powder coating offers several advantages in sheet metal fabrication. Among them are the following:
Durability: Powder coating provides components with a durable finish that can withstand harsh conditions better than others.
Aesthetic: It also offers greater visual appeal, with a wide range of colors and finishes that can be leveraged to customize a part or product.
Sustainability: This finishing process is environmentally friendly, producing fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than liquid paint.
Experience the Power of Powder Coating With Metal Works of High Point
At Metal Works of High Point, we provide reliable, visually appealing, and environmentally friendly solutions for your sheet metal fabrication projects. Our team of experts understands the unique benefits that powder coating brings to the table. Hence, you can depend on us to provide you with a finish that meets and exceeds your expectations.
We also offer various other services, including laser cutting, CNC forming and machining, welding, and other finishing techniques. We’re committed to guiding you through every step of your sheet metal fabrication journey, ensuring you receive an outstanding final product.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life!
