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Home Finishing SystemsPowderPowder System Basics
1. Surface Preparation Machine (e.g. Washer)
In order to achieve the desired functional and mechanical characteristics in the powder coating, a proper substrate cleaning and conversion coating are first required. There are three methods of application including the following: (See our page on Washers for more information.)
- Spray Wand Pre-treatment: This method employs the use of an electric motor to power a pump providing pressurized solution through a heating coil to a hose and hand-held wand assembly.
- Immersion Pre-treatment Systems: This method employs one or more tanks that hold solutions in which parts are dipped or process dipped continuously via a conveyor.
- Recirculating Spray Washers: This method employs the use of a pump and piping that transfers chemical solutions from a reservoir tank to a set of risers. Attached to the risers are nozzles that impact a jet of solution onto the part, removing the soils.
2. Dry-Off Methods
The second step in the powder coating process is a proper dry-off method of the part. Powder coating must be applied to a clean, dry surface to obtain the desired finish. There are three areas of interest relating to the dry-off method. (See our page on Dry-Off Ovens for more information.)
- Blow-Off Method: This method is used to remove excess water from the part using an automatic method of duct work and a fan or manual method utilizing compressed air.
- Dry-Off Ovens: This method is used to dry-off parts in the desired amount of time. A temperature of 250°F is most often selected to evaporate the water moisture remaining on the part.
- Part Cool-Down: If the part temperature is too high when entering the powder booth, the powder will melt on the part. Cool down is accomplished by exposing the part to ambient temperature for the required amount of time.
3. Powder Application
Applying powder to a part is a very delicate and clean process; therefore an environmental room is used to house the powder booth. This room must have proper air flow and be set at a uniform temperature. (See our page on Environmental Rooms for more information.) Powder coatings are applied to a part either by electrostatic spray, by dipping the part in an electrostatic or non-electrostatic fluidized bed, or by flame-spraying methods. Electrostatic spraying has become the primary method of applying powder in the finishing industry due to its control over the coating thickness and its versatility.
4. Cure Ovens:
This is the final step in the powder coating process. The oven must heat a part rapidly to the desired metal temperature, without disrupting the powder coating on the part surface, and exhaust the by-products of cure and combustion. In order to achieve this, a proper temperature and cure time must be achieved.
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KochStore
9/12/2007
KOCH is proud to
announce that ESS Finesse has been chosen as the ERP provider of choice. GKS is excited to be partnering with ESS to implement the Finesse ERP package to support our day to day operations. We look forward to a professional and successful relationship with ESS.
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