Q- What is powdercoating?

A- Powdercoating is a process of depositing a protective film of a polymer onto a metal part. It is deposited onto the part in a finely powdered form from a special type of spray gun. The part and the powder are electrostatically charged so the fine powder (like copier toner) is attracted to the part and sticks to it in a uniform layer. Then the part is placed into an oven where it is cured and bonded to the part. Once it cools, the part is ready for service. No drying time, no exposure to dust while curing so you end up with a very durable finish.

A- Well an apt description that I like to use is that the part appears to have been dipped in high gloss paint. Unlike paint, there are no runs, sags or rips. It can be applied in many different finishes such as high gloss, semi-gloss, flat, wrinkle etc. The choices are as limitless as paint.

Q- How does it hold up?

A- Well unlike paint there is no regular maintenance needed. The gloss is part of the coating and doesn’t need waxing, and will retain its shine for many years, even under the hood. Simple cleaning with mild cleaner like window cleaner will remove surface dirt and let it shine again. It’s superior durability over paint makes it a very popular choice for items that will see harsh service and need to stay protected and new looking for a long time. Since it’s thicker than paint and more flexible, its much less prone to abrasion and chipping, another plus for using it on suspension and engine parts.

Q- I've heard its indestructible, is that true?

A- No, nothing is indestructible. Even chrome can be gouged, scratched etc. But because its flexible and tough, powdercoat will be much more resistant to damage.

Q- What can I have coated?

A- Any metal item that can withstand the curing cycle, can be coated. These include Iron, steel, Aluminum (in a non stressed part) etc can all be powdercoated. No parts that have rubber, plastic etc can go in the oven so they are off limits.

Q- What does it cost?

A- That’s dependent on a lot of things. Some colors will cost more because they require more work and/or more expensive specialty powders. The size of the part will also affect the cost. Also having multiple parts done at once in the same color will net you a discount. Mutli color parts or special custom masking (such as raised or depressed lettering) in a different color will cost a little more as well.

Q- Well can I save myself some money by prepping the parts?

A- Absolutely! The price list (which will be amended as time goes on) reflects the price of having a part coated that is received in “ready for final processing and coating”. This means no rust, oil, grease, scale, paint etc on it. Basically, the more time I have to spend cleaning and prepping the part, the more I have to charge. As I'm sure that you don’t want to pay me hourly to be your parts cleaner, send me clean parts and you will save a bundle.

Q- What’s “final processing”?

A- Final processing is a light degreasing to remove all surface contaminants, then a trip through the blast cabinet to get the surface ready for coating. This insures that there are no hidden contaminants on the surface that might make the coating not adhere properly. A little elbow grease on your part will go a long way in saving you money, however these final steps must be done here in-house to assure the best possible results.