Powder coating is a type of durable finish that’s tougher than paint finish, which is used in different applications and industries, such as automobile, electronics, and agriculture.
Thermoplastic or thermoset polymer undergoes a thermal process in an industrial oven, which is used in curing powder coating finishes.
When it comes to powder coating, industrial ovens play an important role in achieving the best powder coating finish for any part or component.
In this post, you’ll learn more about the powder coating oven and its uses.
Automotive Parts
Powder-coated automotive parts become highly resistant to damage against chemicals, moisture, UV light, chemicals, and impact. It’s no wonder why most off-the-road vehicles and other performance wheels are powder coated – racers powder coat chassis for rust protection.
Powder coating automotive parts reduces the risk of fading, scratches, chipping, abrasions, and other wear and tear issues of wet paint. Unlike spray paints, powder coating doesn’t use thinners, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that wreak havoc on the lungs, and other chemicals that require waste disposal methods.
Automotive parts use industrial ovens in the later stage of the powder coating process.
Here’s how automotive parts are usually powder coated:
- Prepare the Item: Prepare the automotive part for powder coating using abrasive blasting to remove contaminants, mill debris, rust, and foreign materials. The second step in preparing the product is fine grinding to remove burrs and sharp edges. Any remaining grime or gunk is removed by soaking it in acetone.
- Powder Coating Application: A compressed air sprayer or spray gun is used to electrostatically charge the powder and later infused in the grounded metallic part.
- Curing: In curing the powder-coated automotive part, a large industrial oven is used, in which the component is heated to 350° to 375° F or 175° to 190° C for 10 to 15 minutes. Once this step is completed, the powder-coated automotive part is allowed to cool for a few hours.
Electronics and Appliances
There are two types of powder coating: a thermoset polymer and thermoplastic. The difference lies in the ability to remove or reverse powder coating.
Thermoset is usually used in a permanent application, such as powder coating electronics and appliances, withstanding extremely high heats using industrial ovens.
Thermoplastic coating, on the other hand, can be melted or removed, providing a blend of strength and flexibility. It’s also used in reinforcing a product’s structural integrity.
Here are some examples of appliances and electronics that can be powder coated:
- Gas range
- Washing machine
- Kitchen mixers
- Computers
- Water heater
- Microwave oven
- Freezer
Agricultural Tools and Equipment
Garden tools and equipment, such as digging tools, lawnmower, and gardening kits, can be powder coated in an industrial oven. Powder coating can be applied in metals, like steel, and even plastics. Texture selections vary from smooth surfaces to matte or wrinkled finishes. Also, rough textures can hide surface imperfections.
Powder coating gardening tools and equipment offers rust-resistance, durability, and strength. It makes these tools last for many years, withstanding pressure, impact, and rough tasks.
Offices and Other Commercial Buildings
If your business is related to building or architecture, powder coating is also highly beneficial, most especially using the best industrial oven.
Framing, modular furniture, interior railing, and aluminum extrusions for doors and windows use a powder coating. Also, fencing, posts, guardrails, signs, and light poles are a few examples of things you see everywhere that usually have a powder-coated finish.
Other Powder Coated Products
If your business is manufacturing, you can invest in an industrial oven to apply the best powder coating finish for your products. Normal daily products, such as lighting fixtures, antennas, and electrical elements use powder coating finishes. The fitness industry also uses powder coating on golf clubs, golf cards, bicycles, ski poles, snowmobiles, and other exercise equipment.
Shop or store owners use powder coating for display racks, shelves, vending machines, and other store fixtures. Parents also use powder coated products, like cribs, wagons, baby strollers, kids bikes, and metal toys.
How to Choose an Industrial Oven
When choosing an industrial oven for your applications, you have to check the important features, including the following:
- Industrial ovens manufactured using state-of-the-art CNC equipment
- Custom sizes and configurations available
- Walls and roof are mineral wool insulated, 6 inches or higher
- LP gas or natural gas-fueled versions
- Modular design for on-site reconfiguration without extra costs
- All “ prime” aluminized, G90 galvanized, or stainless construction
- Easy to access the exhaust system and floor-mounted heat system
- Thick steel panels and skins (20 gauge or higher) bolted together for optimal fit
- Powder coating oven in multi-function designs
Conclusion
Powder coating for metals, such as computer components, appliances, electronics, and automotive parts, is widely used today, providing greater durability and strength. That’s why powder coating ovens are increasing popularity and in-demand because of the excellent powder coating finishing qualities they provide.
