Decoding the Distinction: Stripping vs. Cleaning in Powder Coating

Join Joey Golliver, the world-renowned powder coating expert and author of “The Powder Coach’s Playbook,” as he clarifies the difference between stripping and cleaning parts in powder coating and when to choose one method over the other, or both, in certain situations in this informative video.


Stripping vs. Cleaning: Understanding the Differences

Introduction: In this comprehensive discussion, Joey explains the distinct purposes and processes of stripping and cleaning parts in powder coating operations. Discover why stripping is used to remove existing coatings or contaminants down to the substrate, while cleaning focuses on removing surface impurities and preparing the substrate for coating.

Stripping:

  1. Purpose:
    • Stripping is employed to remove old coatings, rust, or heavy contaminants from the substrate.
    • It is essential for preparing parts that have been previously coated or have significant surface defects.
  2. Processes:
    • Chemical Stripping:
      • Uses solvents or caustic solutions to dissolve old coatings.
      • Joey explains the safety precautions and handling methods for chemical strippers.
    • Mechanical Stripping:
      • Involves abrasive blasting, sanding, or grinding to remove coatings and rust.
      • Joey provides tips on selecting the right abrasives and equipment for different materials.
  3. When to Use Stripping:
    • Parts with thick, old coatings that need complete removal.
    • Substrates with heavy rust or corrosion that affects coating adhesion.
    • Situations requiring a fresh start on a bare substrate.

Cleaning:

  1. Purpose:
    • Cleaning removes surface impurities like dust, oils, and light residues to ensure proper adhesion of the new coating.
    • It prepares the surface for the powder coating process without altering the underlying material.
  2. Processes:
    • Solvent Cleaning:
      • Uses organic solvents to dissolve oils and grease.
      • Joey discusses the types of solvents and their appropriate applications.
    • Aqueous Cleaning:
      • Utilizes water-based detergents and cleaners.
      • Joey highlights the environmental benefits and effective use of aqueous cleaning solutions.
    • Mechanical Cleaning:
      • Light abrasion or scrubbing to remove surface dirt and residues.
      • Joey explains how to use brushes, pads, or mild abrasives for this purpose.
  3. When to Use Cleaning:
    • New parts with light surface contaminants.
    • Parts needing minor surface preparation before coating.
    • Situations where the substrate is in good condition and only requires surface cleaning.

Choosing Between Stripping and Cleaning:

  1. Assessment:
    • Evaluate the condition of the part: Is it heavily coated, rusted, or lightly soiled?
    • Determine the end goal: Are you preparing for a new coat or removing extensive defects?
  2. Criteria for Decision-Making:
    • Surface Condition:
      • Heavily coated or rusted parts typically require stripping.
      • Lightly soiled or new parts often only need cleaning.
    • Material Sensitivity:
      • Some substrates may be sensitive to aggressive stripping methods and require careful handling.
    • Desired Outcome:
      • Stripping for a clean slate versus cleaning for minor preparation.

Practical Examples and Industry Insights:

  1. Case Studies:
    • Joey shares real-world examples where stripping or cleaning was the optimal choice.
    • He illustrates the outcomes of each method in different scenarios.
  2. Expert Tips:
    • Practical tips on efficiently executing both stripping and cleaning processes.
    • Joey’s advice on avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Conclusion: Don’t overlook the importance of choosing the right approach! Hit play now to gain expert guidance from Joey Golliver and optimize your part preparation processes for successful powder coating outcomes. Watch the video here. Like, subscribe, and share to support the channel and empower others with essential powder coating knowledge. Let’s decode the distinction between stripping and cleaning together for impeccable coatings!


Joey Golliver’s expertise provides you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about stripping and cleaning, ensuring your powder coating projects are executed with precision and quality. By mastering these techniques, you can achieve flawless, durable, and professional results.

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