Powder coating is an affordable and fast means of applying a thin organic coating to a part. It is a means of improving the appearance of the substrate surface. It can also provide it with a layer of protection against such things as corrosion. Yet, no matter what the purpose of the coating, it can fail if the surface does not undergo the right preparation. Finishers in Michigan, like their counterparts around the Globe understand this and act accordingly.
Surface Preparation
Before undergoing coating, metals undergo one or more fabricating procedures. These vary but the average possibilities are:
* Forging
* Forming
* Heat treatment
* Machining
* Rolling
* Stamping
During any of these processes, the surface of the substrate may become embedded or coated with various contaminants. The major offenders are:
* Dirt
* Greases
* Mill scale
* Oils
* Rust
* Salts – chlorides and sulfides
* Water
If left on the surface, these impurities can result in problems that extend beyond the cosmetic.
Why It Is Important to Remove Contaminants
It is important to remove these impurities through executing a thorough cleaning of the substrate’s surface. Not performing such an action can result in two major problems.
1. Interference with the adhesion process of the coating
2. Corrosion will proceed beneath the surface of the coating resulting in a premature failure of the workpiece in its environment
To prevent the occurrence of either, finishers make sure the piece or component receives a thorough cleaning prior to the application of a powder coating of any sort.
Removing Contaminants
Finishers in Michigan understand the principles behind selecting the right process for cleaning the surface. They look at the major factors involved. These consist of:
* The soil or contaminant requiring removal
* The type of coating the finisher intends to apply
* The characteristics of the component e.g. shape, size, material
* The end use of the component
These will all combine to govern the choice of method, determining whether the approach will be mechanical or chemical.
Powder Coating: Preparatory Cleaning Is Essential
In Michigan, both finishers and manufacturers realize the need for powder coatings. They know this process provides the components with protection while improving the overall appearance. However, if the process is to be successful, certain steps are required. The coating must not occur without the finisher employing a cleaning protocol. Failure to ensure the component is completely free of any contaminants can result in serious consequences. The powder coating will not be able to adhere to the substrate optimally and/or any contaminants just below the substrate’s surface may proceed to cause deterioration prematurely through the spread of corrosion.
