Powder coating is a popular way to paint parts with a durable, attractive finish. This finish not only improves the look of industrial equipment, but it also makes them longer lasting. For example, industrial powder coating defends against moisture, whether it comes from rain, humidity, or another source. This way, your industrial equipment won’t corrode.
The other option that manufacturers have is to paint their equipment. While both powder coating and liquid paint have their advantages, we’re typically in favor of powder coating for industrial applications. Let’s look closer at how powder coating and wet paint stack up to each other.
Powder Coating vs Wet Paint
Powder coating is a color-finishing technique where the paint starts out, and is applied in a dry powder form instead of a liquid like wet paint. The powder is applied using specialized tools and is then heated to jell and cure to the hard-durable finish. There are several different types of powder paint that can be chosen from. Rockett uses polyester type paints ideally suited for long term outdoor settings and tough environments.
Liquid paint is applied through pump devices at high pressure. Pneumatic-powered tools or machinery are used to coat a chosen surface. Then requires time to dry and cure.
Paint vs Powder Coating: Which is Better?
The choice between paint and powder coating depends on your needs and the equipment you’re looking to have painted. There are benefits to both, so we feel that powder coating has the edge for the following reasons.
Cost efficiency
Powder coating has a general transfer efficiency of 60 to 70 percent, whereas paint only has a transfer efficiency of 30 to 35 percent. Not only is the application efficient, but overspray or un-applied excess virgin powder is typically captured and reclaimed during the spray process to be reapplied on subsequent parts. This greatly maximizes the utilization of paint per the cost.
Safety
Powder coating is a safer process because it’s free of toxins. The active product is polymer powder, while paint often has ingredients like volatile organic compounds and toxic solvents. Protective gear is still necessary for both paint and powder coating.
Environmental friendliness
Since there are no VOCs or toxic solvents in powder coating, it’s naturally better for the environment. There is also less waste from powder coating, making it easy on our landfills.
Productivity
Powder will fully cure in about 30-60 minutes depending on size and thickness of parts. By contrast, paint may take days to dry and fully cure. Since powder finishes are stronger and more durable than wet paint, they can often better endure the effects of impact, moisture, ultraviolet rays, and heat and cold.
Texture and color
Both types come in a wide spectrum of colors, gloss levels, and can be custom matched. Powder paint also has the advantage of offering special surface textures.
Overall, powder coating is a stronger, more durable, and longer lasting finish that will protect your industrial equipment from moisture and corrosion. Schedule an estimate with Rockett Inc. to learn more about our industrial powder coating services and how they can help maximize your industrial-grade equipment.
