Hello, fellow powder coaters! Today, I want to talk about one of the most important steps in achieving a high-quality, long-lasting powder coating finish: pretreatment.
Proper pretreatment is critical to ensuring that your powder coating adheres correctly, resists corrosion and other environmental factors, and looks great for years to come. Here are the five key steps to proper pretreatment prior to powder coating:
Step 1: Clean the Surface
The first step in pretreatment is to thoroughly clean the surface to be coated. Any dirt, grease, oil, or other contaminants on the surface will interfere with adhesion and compromise the quality of your finish. Use a solvent or degreaser to remove any contaminants, and then rinse the surface thoroughly with water to ensure all residue is removed.
Step 2: Remove Oxidation
If the surface has any oxidation or other corrosion, it’s important to remove it before powder coating. Oxidation can prevent the powder from adhering properly and cause the finish to flake or peel over time. Use a chemical or mechanical process to remove oxidation, such as sandblasting or chemical etching.
Step 3: Apply the Pretreatment Solution
Once the surface is clean and free of oxidation, apply the pretreatment solution. The specific solution you use will depend on the material being coated and the type of powder coating you’re using. Pretreatment solutions typically include a combination of cleaners, phosphates, and other chemicals to help improve adhesion and corrosion resistance.
Step 4: Rinse the Surface
After applying the pretreatment solution, rinse the surface thoroughly with water to remove any excess solution. It’s important to rinse the surface completely to ensure that there is no residual pretreatment solution left on the surface that could interfere with the powder coating adhesion.
Step 5: Dry the Surface
The final step in the pretreatment process is to dry the surface completely. Any residual moisture on the surface can cause problems with adhesion and lead to corrosion over time. Use a heat or compressed air to remove all moisture from the surface before applying the powder coating.
And there you have it, the five key steps to proper pretreatment prior to powder coating. Following these steps will help ensure that your powder coating adheres correctly, resists corrosion, and looks great for years to come.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to me, Joey Golliver, the Powder Coach. You can contact me at joey.golliver@gollivergroup.com
