

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is powder coating?
Powder coating is a dry finishing process where fine, dry powder is electrostatically charged and sprayed onto a grounded surface, creating a durable, thick, and often more environmentally friendly coating than traditional paint.
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2. What can be powder coated?
Almost any material can be powder coated. Metal is the most commonly powder coated, due to the type of applications powder coated products are put to. Wood, glass plastic, MDF and a number of different composite materials can also be powder coated if required.
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3. How thick is powder coating?
Powder coating typically ranges in thickness from 2 to 8 mils (0.002 to 0.008 inches or 50 to 200 microns), with the most common range being 2.5 to 3.0 mils.
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4. What different types of powder coating are there?
There are many many types of powder coating. Some of the most common types are; Textured, High-Temperature, Rubberized, Anti-Bacterial, Epoxies, Polyesters, Super Durable Polyesters, Epoxy-Polyester Hybrids, Fluoropolymers, Urethanes and more!
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5. Is powder coating better than liquid paint?
Yes, powder coating is baked onto the metal part, forming a thicker layer of protection that is stronger and more weather-resistant, minimizing scratching, peeling and fading.
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6.What powder colors do you offer?
There are several thousand standard colors and textures to choose from, or we can have your color matched in a custom color lab for an additional charge.
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7. Is powder coating environmentally friendly?
Much more so than paint. Powder is non-toxic and environmentally safe, emitting no or very few harmful VOCs. The entire process at PT Powder Works has been tailored with the environment in mind. Most of our waste water is evaporated. The most efficient burners and ovens are used in the drying and curing process. Excess powder is often reclaimed and utilized.
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8. What's the largest size that can be powder coated?
Currently our largest oven is 8'x8'x12'Deep. Anything that fits in these specifications we can powder coat. Feel free to reach out if you have concerns.
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9.Does my part need to be blasted before powder coating?
Many parts that come to us do need blasting before being coated. Our blasting services remove any surface residues before coating to ensure an even application and provide microscopic scoring into the surface of your product to promote a stronger bond with your primer or powder coat.
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10. How do i get a quote on my parts?
The best way is to bring your part to us for evaluation. However, if that is not feasible, you may use our online form. An attached drawing with measurements is required. An isometric drawing is extremely helpful.
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11.How do I properly clean and maintain powder coating?
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Avoid excessive contact. Approach with an attitude of “less is better!”
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Avoid harsh, abrasive cleaners such as steel wool and scourers. Treat powder coating as you would your car paint.
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Avoid solvents where possible, When a solvent is absolutely necessary to remove materials from the surface, such as adhesives, the weakest possible solvent should be used (e.g. methylated spirits, white spirits or isopropyl alcohol). A small and unobtrusive area should be tested prior to attempting to use solvents on significant surfaces. After removal of the surface contaminant, the solvent should be dried from the film, and the area that has been wiped with solvent should be washed with a solution of mild liquid detergent and then rinsed with clean water to ensure complete removal of any solvent residues. Under no circumstances should strong solvents be used. Examples of inappropriate chemicals for cleaning or for any contact with powder coating are gasoline, kerosene, MEK, xylene, caustic cleaners like kitchen and bathroom detergents, and paint thinners. Always flush metal that has been exposed to cleaners with copious amounts of fresh, clean water.
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When a scratch is discovered, it should be addressed immediately. If bare metal is exposed, it should be lightly sanded with a 180 grit or finer sandpaper to remove any corrosion that may be present. Then the sanded area should have all sanding debris removed with either a clean brush or compressed air. The surface can then be touched up with a liquid paint; we recommend a high quality architectural or automotive grade paint, enamels or two part urethane.. Two or three coats of paint are usually required to achieve adequate coverage. For larger areas a liquid primer is recommended.
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