At Metal Works of High Point, Inc., we are a premier manufacturer of custom-fabricated metal components and assemblies. We offer a range of manufacturing capabilities to meet the needs of our customers, including powder coating and other finishing services.
Industrial Powder Coating
Powder coating is a finishing process in which dry powder is applied to a surface and then heated to form a smooth, hard layer. The layer can exhibit a number of functional or aesthetic properties depending on the composition of the particular powder coating material.
Benefits of Powder Coatings
There are many types of powder coating materials available, each of which offers unique attributes that make it suitable for different components, applications, and environments. Below, we highlight some of the most basic types.
Epoxies
Epoxy powder coatings consist of an epoxy base and a curing compound. Both components can be tailored to achieve different properties, which makes this type of powder coating highly versatile. Other key advantages include resistance to abrasion and chemicals, suitability for use in interior or submerged applications, and the ability to be built to various thicknesses.
Polyurethanes
Polyurethane powder coatings are often used as a topcoat for parts and products that need to be abrasion resistant and durable. They can be classified into two categories: aliphatic and aromatic. Aliphatic coatings are well-suited for outside environments due to their excellent color retention and UV resistance. Aromatic coatings are better suited for submerged environments since they degrade when exposed to sunlight.
Polysiloxanes
Polysiloxane powder coatings offer excellent color retention, abrasion resistance, and weather resistance. However, they do not offer the corrosion resistance or flexibility needed for industrial environments on their own. That’s why they are often combined with epoxies to enhance their performance and longevity.
Zinc-Rich Coatings
Zinc-rich powder coatings contain high levels of zinc dust. They offer galvanic protection, which protects steel materials from corrosion. Organic and inorganic varieties are available. The latter typically requires greater surface preparation but offers stronger protective characteristics.
Industrial Applications of Powder Coatings
Powder coating offers many advantages over conventional coating methods. For example, it comes with a broad selection of coating material options, which makes it easy for manufacturers to tailor their powder coated finishes to their exact needs, whether they want to increase wear resistance, add a specific color, or otherwise alter the surface of the component or assembly.
Other advantages of powder coating include:
- longer coating life
- smaller environmental impact
- faster turnaround
For these reasons, among others, companies across a wide range of industries choose to use powder coatings on their parts and products.
Examples of industries that utilize powder coating in their manufacturing operations include:
- The appliance industry for timer terminals and valves
- The contract manufacturing industry for wall brackets and structural pieces
- The material handling industry for C-clips and frames
- The power generation industry for battery enclosures and power supply covers
- The telecommunications industry for chassis and panels
- The transportation industry for drip pans and transmission adapters
Custom Finishing Services From Metal Works
Looking for a partner for your custom finishing needs? Turn to the experts at Metal Works of High Point. Our facility is fully equipped with everything we need to powder coat your precision components and assemblies. We can add high-quality decorative or protective finishes that meet your exact needs. For additional information about our custom finishing capabilities, contact us. To discuss your coating specifications with one of our team members, request a quote today.