Listed below are the frequently asked questions about the powder coating and sandblasting processes.
What is powder coating?
Powder Coating is a dry finishing process where electrically charged powder is applied to metal and cured with heat to form a hard, durable coating.
How is powder coating different from paint?
Powder coating uses no liquid solvents, creates a thicker and more durable finish, and resists chipping, scratching, and fading better than paint.
What colors and finishes are available?
Thousands of colors and finishes including gloss, matte, satin, textured, metallic, and specialty effects like PowderLUX patina finishes.
Can powder coating match specific colors?
Yes. Many powders are available in standard color systems such as RAL and custom matches may be possible. Exact matches of pearl or metallic colors are
limited. Expect small variances in color after application.
How durable is powder coating?
Powder coating is extremely durable. It resists scratches, chips, corrosion, UV exposure, and weathering. It’s the most durable of all the finish options on the market.
Is powder coating good for outdoor use?
Yes! When powder coating is properly applied with a primer and top coat, it provides excellent
protection against moisture, sun, and temperature changes.
Does powder coating prevent rust?
Yes. Proper surface preparation and coating help seal metal and protect it from corrosion. Nothing is rust proof, but at Adrenaline Customs we use a pretreatment, primer and top coat when powder coating all outdoor items.
How long does powder coating last?
With normal use, powder coating can last many years without peeling or fading. In Minnesota, 10-15 years outdoors can be expected.
Is powder coating heat resistant?
Standard coatings tolerate moderate heat at about 250 sustained degrees; high-
temperature powders are available for temps around 500 degrees. Above 500
degrees, a ceramic coating should be considered.
Is powder coating more expensive than paint?
With the never ending price hikes of paint products lately, powder coating is significantly cheaper than paint.
How are parts prepared before powder coating?
Parts are typically cleaned and sandblasted to remove rust, oil, and old coatings for proper adhesion.
Can powder coating be applied over rust or paint?
No. All rust and old coatings must be removed before powder coating.
How thick is a powder coat?
The average coat of powder is about .003” or your average sheet of copy paper thick.
Can powder coating be repaired or touched up?
Minor touch-ups are possible, but full recoating may be required for larger damage.
Can powder coating be removed or recoated?
Yes. Powder coating can be stripped/blasted off and recoated if needed.
What items are commonly powder coated?
Automotive parts, wheels, bike frames, railings, furniture, appliances, and industrial components.
What can’t be powder coated?
Materials that cannot withstand high curing temperatures, such as most plastics, rubber, and wood.
How do I take care of a powder-coated surface?
Clean regularly with mild soap and water, using a soft cloth or sponge. A coat of wax or ceramic will make it easy to clean and prevent micro scratching. Avoid abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals like brake cleaner, acetone, or thinners. They should never be used on powder coat. It can cause irreparable harm to the coating.
Can scratches be buffed out of powder coating?
Light surface scuffs on high gloss finishes can sometimes be reduced or blended using a fine polishing compound and a soft cloth or buffing pad. Deep scratches that penetrate the coating cannot be fully buffed out and usually require touch-up or recoating.