What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating explained in plain English

Powder coating is a way of finishing metal with a dry powder instead of wet paint. The powder is sprayed onto the part using an electric charge, then baked in an oven so it melts and hardens into a tough, even coating.

It is widely used on aluminium and steel because it gives a thicker, more durable finish than standard paint and stands up well to knocks, weather and everyday use.

How powder coatings work

Traditional paint is liquid. Powder coatings start out as a fine, coloured powder made from resins, pigments and additives.

Here is what happens in simple terms:

• The metal part is cleaned and dried

• The powder is sprayed on using a special gun

• An electric charge helps the powder stick to the metal

• The coated part goes into an oven

• Heat makes the powder flow out and cure into a solid skin

Once cured, the coating is hard, smooth and bonded to the metal underneath. That is why powder coating metal is so popular for gates, railings, machinery, car parts, frames and more.

How to powder coat metal - the main steps

1 - Cleaning and degreasing

Remove oils, dirt and cutting fluids so nothing sits between the metal and the coating.

2 - Surface preparation

3 - Drying

Deal with rust, mill scale or oxidation. Aluminium and steel need different approaches here.

Make sure there is no trapped moisture on or in the part.

If you are wondering how to powder coat properly, the key is in the preparation and the bake, not just the spraying.

A typical professional process looks like this:

4 - Spraying the powder

5 - Curing in the oven

6 - Cooling and inspection

The part is earthed and an electrostatic gun applies an even layer of powder.

The part is heated for a set time and temperature so the powder melts and chemically cures.

Once cooled, the coating is checked for coverage, runs, thin spots and other issues.

That is the short answer to "how do you powder coat". You can buy small DIY kits, but consistent results on larger or important parts usually need a proper set up and controlled curing.

Powder coaters you can count on.

Why choose powder coating over paint

People pick powder coatings for a few simple reasons:

• Durability
  Powder coated metal is often tougher than liquid paint and less likely to chip or scratch.

• Even coverage
  The way the powder flows out in the oven can give a smoother, more even finish.

• Choice of colours and textures
  There are many RAL colours, gloss levels and textures available, from smooth gloss to fine texture finishes.

• Low waste
  Overspray can often be managed more efficiently than with wet paint.

For metal that needs to look good and last, powder coating is usually a better long term option than basic wet spray.

Why use The Powder Coaters

Understanding powder coating is one thing. Getting reliable results on real parts is another.

At The Powder Coaters we:

• Focus on proper cleaning and pre treatment before we go near the powder

• Adjust our process for aluminium, mild steel and galvanised steel so the coating sticks and lasts

• Use controlled curing so longer profiles and fabrications reach the right temperature along their full length

• Check parts before and after coating so you are not surprised when they come back

If you would rather have your aluminium and metal coated properly the first time, we are set up to help.

Made to last. Backed by experience.

Frequently asked questions

How long does powder coating last?

There is no single number, because it depends on the metal, environment and how well the surface was prepared. With good prep and the right powder, a powder coated finish can last many years in normal conditions. For harsh or coastal environments, different systems may be needed.

What is powder coating used for?

Powder coating is used on all sorts of metal items, including gates, railings, machinery, car and bike parts, shop fittings, frames and aluminium extrusions. It is popular anywhere a tough, coloured finish is needed on metal.

Can you powder coat any metal?

Most common metals like aluminium, mild steel, galvanised steel and stainless steel can be powder coated. Cast metals and some alloys can be more tricky. The part also needs to cope with the curing temperature in the oven. If you are unsure, just ask.

Is powder coating better than painting?

For many jobs, yes. Powder coating usually gives a thicker, more even and more durable finish in a single process. It stands up to knocks and weather better than standard liquid paint when the surface has been prepared properly.

Is powder coating environmentally friendly?

Powder coating is often greener than many liquid paints. The powders are solvent free, overspray is easier to control, and the durable finish needs redoing less often. It still uses energy for curing, so it is not impact free.

Can I powder coat at home?

There are DIY powder coating kits, but they have limits on part size and control. The biggest challenge is having a suitable oven, good extraction and a safe set up. For important or larger parts, most people choose a professional powder coating service.

Explore The Powder Coaters

Powder Coating Services

Powder coating services for aluminium and metal parts, with proper surface preparation, consistent finishes and clear lead times from our family run site in Iver.

Aluminium Powder Coating

Metal Powder Coating

Aluminium powder coating for extrusions, frames and components, with full pre-treatment and capacity up to 7 m for a tough, even, long lasting finish.

Metal powder coating for steel and galvanised steel, with proper surface preparation and durable finishes that protect against rust, chips and everyday wear.

Got aluminium or metal parts you would like powder coated properly?

Tell us what you have and we will explain your options and give you a clear quote.