FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Find answers to the most common questions about our powder coating services.
Why do people choose A Plus Powder Coaters for powder coating?
People choose A Plus Powder Coaters because we offer some of the best quality and lead times in the industry. Our commitment to investing in our employees and building a strong team shines through in both our service and the quality of our work. As one of the largest powder coaters in Ohio, we excel at handling high-volume jobs and some of the largest parts, with an oven capable of coating up to 30 feet in length. Additionally, with the ability to media blast, perform iron phosphate pretreatment, and strip parts both chemically and with our burn-off process, we can manage all coating-related prep and processes under one roof.
What is powder coating?
Powder coating is a dry finishing process that involves applying a free-flowing, dry powder to a surface, which is then cured under heat to form a durable, high-quality finish.
How long does the powder coating process take?
Powder coating is much quicker than wet paint, with no drying or tack time required. We offer some of the fastest lead times in the industry.
Is powder coating environmentally friendly?
Powder coating is environmentally beneficial because it emits almost no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving air quality and reducing health risks compared to traditional liquid paints. Additionally, powder coating generates less waste, as overspray can be collected and reused, leading to nearly 100% material efficiency and minimizing hazardous waste disposal, making it a more sustainable and eco-friendly option
How durable is powder coating?
Powder coating is an exceptionally durable coating option that provides a tough, long-lasting finish resistant to scratches, chips, and corrosion. Powder coatings are available in various classes of durability and specifications, catering to different needs, from standard finishes to high-performance industrial coatings. In addition to its inherent robustness, powder coating can be further enhanced with the right combination of preparation, primer, and topcoat to meet specific requirements. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for applications demanding both durability and customization.
Can you match custom colors?
Yes, we offer custom color matching services to meet your specific needs and ensure the perfect finish for your parts. We work with a wide range of powder manufacturers to find the ideal fit for your custom blend. Please note that custom blending typically requires a sample of the painted color you’re trying to match, which we send to a lab for accurate matching. Our estimating team is available to provide more details and guide you through the process when you’re ready to get started.
Can you refurb older metal parts?
Yes, we have the capability to refurbish older metal parts and coatings. With our burn-off oven and chemical strip tank, we can effectively remove non-lead-based paints and coatings. This allows us to refurbish a variety of items. For example, the photos below showcase large metal bins that were stripped of old coatings using our high-temperature burn-off oven, media blasted to a near-white finish, and then re-coated. This process restores the parts to like-new condition, ready for further use.
What are the benefits of powder coating?
- Superior Durability: Provides long-lasting protection and resilience.
- Wide Range of Colors: Available in numerous color options to suit your needs.
- Eco-Friendly: A more environmentally sustainable process compared to traditional painting methods.
- Quick Turnaround: Typically offers faster processing times.
- Cost-Effective: Overall, a more economical and sustainable solution.
How well will powder coating hold up outdoors?
Powder coating is highly durable for outdoor use, offering excellent resistance to the elements. To enhance outdoor durability, a primer or zinc primer can be applied, multiple coats can be used to add extra protection. Different types and chemistries of powder coatings, such as UV-resistant formulations, can also be tailored to meet specific outdoor durability requirements. At A Plus Powder Coaters Inc., most powder coatings we use are designed to hold up well outdoors, providing a long-lasting, reliable finish that can withstand harsh conditions.
What is media blasting?
Media blasting is a surface preparation process where abrasive materials are propelled at high speeds to clean or prepare metal surfaces for powder coating. At A Plus Powder Coaters, we utilize this as our primary mechanical prep method. We have three large blast rooms capable of handling parts up to 30 feet in length, multiple blast cabinets for smaller components, and a tumble blast machine designed for small metal brackets or accessories. This ensures that surfaces are thoroughly prepped for optimal coating adhesion.
How do I prepare my parts for powder coating?
To prepare parts for powder coating, ensure they are free of heavy oils and grease, and that any cutting fluids are water-soluble. Remove any grease pen or ink markings, and clean the parts as thoroughly as possible. The parts will be prepped through either iron phosphate pretreatment or media blasting. Additionally, make sure all parts are clearly identified with color and part numbers for easy tracking.
What information do you need to give me a quote for powder coating?
To provide a quote for powder coating, we’ll need the following information:
- Individual drawings of the parts as they will arrive for coating, clearly showing the length, width, and height.
- Part numbers, when available.
- The weight of the parts, if possible.
- Any required masking areas clearly called out.
- Any quality specifications that need to be met.
- Details of the specified coating or coating requirements. If no specifications are available, understanding the desired color, gloss level, and the end environment the parts will be used in will help us choose the best prep and coating options for the highest quality product.
- Any special packing requirements for the parts.
With this information, we can provide an accurate quote.
What materials can be powder coated?
We can powder coat a wide range of materials, including metals such as steel, aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized surfaces, castings, and other alloys. In most cases, we can also coat over e-coat or anodized finishes.
Can you powder coat over galvanizing?
Yes, we can powder coat over galvanizing. With over 25 years of experience, we’ve developed specialized processes to ensure proper adhesion and coating on galvanized surfaces. This process, known as duplex coating, combines the corrosion resistance of galvanizing with the durability and aesthetic benefits of powder coating. When done correctly, and with the right galvanizing and powder coating materials, some applications can achieve over 100 years of part life, offering exceptional protection and longevity.
What size parts can you powder coat?
Our largest oven can accommodate parts up to 9ft x 10ft x 30ft in length, and we can comfortably handle parts weighing several thousand pounds. For high-volume jobs, our conveyor line can coat parts as small as a dime and linear parts up to 20 feet in length. For specific needs, reach out to our estimating department, and we can assist with your project.