Powder Coating: Everything you need to know

A blank sheet of metal does not look appealing nor is it properly protected against external influences such as corrosion or scratches. Powder coating is a process that enhances surfaces both mechanically and visually, by applying powder and curing it. Many everyday objects such as windows, doors, furniture, and facades are being powder coated today. Additionally, powder coatings can also be used for products such as industrial machines or for certain car parts. New innovations also allow nonmetallic surfaces, such as plastic, wood or glass, to be finished with powder coatings.

1. Formula: No powder coating is like the other - just like the different requirements for powder coatings. Henceforth, even prior to production, the right recipe is needed. This can be specially adapted according to customers and usage.
 

2. Weighing: In the following step, the ingredients are weighed out correctly into a container. Differences in density and grain size do not play a role for the time being.
 

3. Mixing: The weighed raw materials are then mixed both horizontally and vertically using a special machine. The speed of the mixing tool and the mixing time are precisely defined.
 

4. Extrusion: The mixture is now melted in the extruder. The aim of the extrusion is to create a homogeneous mass - this is achieved with heat and the shearing forces generated in the machine.
 

5. Cooling: After the mass exits the extruder, it is cooled on a cooling belt and rolled out. The solid mass is then broken up into small chips by a shredder.
 

6. Grinding: In the first step, the now hardened, cooled extrudate is broken into rough chips (10 to 20 mm) and then ground into powder coating in the fine grinding step.
 

7. Sieving: Before the powder leaves the mill, coarse particles and fine parts are filtered out of the mixture using sieves and suction.
 

8. Filling: The finished powder coating is then filled by weight and packaged in airtight containers.