How powder coating works
- Surface preparation: the part is cleaned of grease, rust and old paint. How long the coating lasts depends on the preparation.
- Application: the powder is sprayed from a gun that gives it an electric charge. The part is earthed, so the powder sticks evenly, including on the edges.
- Curing: the part goes into an oven, usually at around 180–200 °C, where the powder melts and hardens into a continuous layer.
Why powder coating lasts longer than liquid paint
- The layer is thicker and more even, with no runs.
- It stands up well to scratches, light knocks and the weather.
- It contains no solvents.
- The colour comes out the same across the whole part.
What can be powder coated?
Metal that can withstand the oven temperature: steel, galvanised steel and aluminium. Wood, plastic and parts with seals or heat-sensitive components cannot be coated this way, or only once those have been removed.
Powder coating for outdoor use
For gates, fences and outdoor furniture, UV-resistant powders are used so the colour does not fade. For maximum corrosion protection, the part can be galvanised before coating; the combination is called a duplex system.
RAL colours and finishes
Colours are chosen by RAL code. Besides gloss and matt, there are textured and metallic finishes. Availability depends on the colour, so it is best to ask first.
How to prepare your parts
- Tell us what metal they are made of and whether they have been painted before.
- Remove seals, wheels, plastic and anything that cannot take the heat.
- Send us a photo and the dimensions so we can check that the part fits in the oven and how it will be hung.
How long does powder coating last?
It depends on the surface preparation, the powder and how exposed the part is. A well-prepared part coated with an outdoor-grade powder keeps its appearance for many years. If the coating is scratched through to the metal, the spot can be touched up.