Powder coating finishes have become a highly popular way to enhance the aesthetic value and durability of countless products that are used every day. From kitchen necessities like mixers and gas ranges to automotive parts, and outdoor accessories and fixtures, the powder coating process is commonly used by manufacturers across all industries to improve the value of their products.
However, what are the benefits of powder coating, and can the powder coating process be applied to stainless steel? The simple answer to this second question is yes, but utilizing powder coating requires an expert hand in stainless steel laser cutting and fabrication to ensure the best results.
What is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a dry finishing process that represents an estimated 15% of the total industrial finishing market. The process works by creating an electric charge that causes a dry powder to fuse to the surface of metal or other materials. The components of the powder itself can vary. However, they generally include resin, curing agents, and possible additional additives that serve different purposes, depending on the desired result of the finish.
Once the dry powder has been applied, the parts or products are heated (usually in a curing oven) to achieve a smooth and even coating.
What are the Benefits of Powder Coating Finishes?
There are a few substantial benefits to opting for powder coating finishes instead of other options (namely paint.) These advantages of powder coating include the following:
Increased Durability
A part that is powder coated will be highly resistant to wear and tear, such as chipping, cracks, scratches, or fading. This makes powder coating an ideal finish for parts or products used outdoors and/or regularly exposed to the elements.
Longer Lifespan
Because of this expanded durability, powder coated products tend to have a longer lifespan. A prime example is the popular Tumbler cups, which may be more expensive than plain old coffee mugs or water bottles. However, they are renowned for lasting for years without losing their ability to keep liquids hot or cold.
A Less Time-consuming and Costly Process
For manufacturers, powder coating is often a faster and more cost-effective way to add a protective layer on their parts or products. This is especially true for companies that utilize a metal fabrication resource as a backbone partner, like Steelway Laser Cutting.
Environmentally Friendly
Powder coating is also more environmentally friendly than paint, as no solvents are used during the finishing process. In addition, there are no volatile organic compounds in the dry powder.
How Powder Coating Works with Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a common metal used in many different manufacturing industries. Therefore, even though stainless steel is known for being more corrosion resistant than other metals, it is undoubtedly not corrosion proof. This is especially true for stainless steel products that spend most of their lifespan outside – such as gates and fences, automobile parts, home and building materials, and other outdoor products.
In addition, while stainless steel is inherently reflective and attractive, many manufacturers use powder coating to enhance the aesthetic value of their products. Just like paint, powder coating comes in a rainbow of varying colors, which is why it’s popular for household products like home décor items.
How to Powder Coat Stainless Steel
When it comes to applying the powder coating process to stainless steel, there are several factors that will make the difference and ensure a perfect part or product every time. Here are the general steps in the powder coating process.
Laser Cutting
Laser cutting stainless steel is the most effective way to ensure that you start with a smooth surface, which is essential for the powder coating process to be effective. Unlike other metal cutting methods, laser cutting does not result in rough edges or alterations which can skew the powder coating application.
Cleaning
It’s also important to ensure that you start with a clean surface, without dust or debris, for the powder coating finish to be applied evenly and without contamination.
Passivating
Passivating is a process where metals are treated with corrosive chemicals to remove the top thin surface layer of stainless steel. This step removes any areas in the stainless steel where the surface distribution of alloying elements was disturbed. For example, where the metal is scratched, dented, or near spots where welding has occurred.
Sandblasting
In case there are any impurities or blemishes that were missed in the previous steps, sandblasting may also come into play to ensure there is no lingering residue. Starting with laser cut stainless steel, manufacturers can enable the removal of flaws well before the powder coating process begins.
Powder Coating Application
This is part of the process where the dry powder is applied to the surface of the stainless steel with an electrostatic charge, ensuring that the powder coating initially “sticks” to the metal surface.
Curing
Once the powder coating is applied, heat is used to harden the resin, creating a durable and smooth coating of the finished product.
Is it Easy to Apply Powder Coating to Stainless Steel?
Generally, powder coating can be easily applied to all varieties of stainless steel products and parts. However, a little expertise goes a long way. Starting with laser cut stainless steel, with no rough edges or imperfections, helps ensure a smoother process when it’s time for the powder coating finishing phase.
Learn More About Laser Cutting Stainless Steel and the Powder Cutting Process
Stainless steel coating powder starts with the assistance of an expert, and this is where Steelway Laser Cutting services can help.
We work with all kinds of metal – including stainless steel – and across all industries. Additionally, our decades of experience can help streamline your manufacturing tasks while making your products better across the board.
Reach out to our team today to start a conversation about what we can do for you. With a time-tested resource in your corner, you can take your manufacturing operations to new levels of efficiency while enhancing your products from the inside out.