Powder coating is a dry-finishing process that applies electrostatically charged ground particles of resin and pigment to metal surfaces to provide a durable, high-quality finish. These charged particles adhere to the surface and are then heated and fused into a smooth coating inside a curing oven. When done correctly by a professional company, powder coating can withstand harsh weather, UV rays and wear more effectively than many other finishes while maintaining a smooth, attractive appearance.
Today, powder coating is a popular service thanks to the many benefits of the process, including its environmentally friendly application and high-quality, long-lasting finish. So many companies are turning to powder coating services for their products that the market size for this industry is projected to reach $20.8 billion by 2032, up from $13.3 billion in 2022.
If you’re considering partnering with a powder coating company for your product finishing needs, there are a few things you need to know. Choosing a reliable service provider is the first step to getting the desired results, so here are some tips on selecting the right professional powder coating service for your needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Quality Powder Coating Company
Delivering a high-quality powder coated finish requires specialized equipment and in-depth knowledge of the technology. Here are a few of the characteristics you’ll want to look for when deciding how you’ll choose the right professional powder coating company.
Experience
Choose an established operation that has a track record of quality results. An experienced powder coating company should have a portfolio of products to showcase as testimony of their quality workmanship. If you’re looking for a unique or specific service, such as a particular color or coating texture, you will want to confirm whether the company has previously handled projects similar to yours.
Keystone Koating has been in business for over 30 years, making us one of the most experienced powder coating companies in Pennsylvania.
Certifications
A reputable powder coating service provider should have ISO 9001 certification. This quality standard is designed to help companies ensure they meet all the requirements of their customers and stakeholders. Part of your criteria for choosing a powder coating service should be consistency in providing high-quality services, and this certification is proof that the company strives to meet customer expectations.
As a company dedicated to quality services, Keystone Koating holds the following certifications:
- ISO 9001:2015 certification: This certification affirms the use of a stringent quality management system designed to ensure products meet all applicable specifications.
- AAMA 2605: This American Architectural Manufacturers Association standard is given after coating has been tested for weather resistance, color and gloss retention, corrosion resistance, adhesion and chemical resistance.
- JLG certification: This certification is issued when a company meets high standards in quality control management, pretreatment monitoring, data procurement and recordkeeping.
We are also a member of the Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI) and a certified applicator of powder manufactured in compliance with AAMA standards. Our Lititz and Mifflintown locations are both IFS AAMA certified.
Pricing
Of course, you’ll need to make sure any right service provider you consider is able to offer powder coating services that fit your budget. However, bear in mind that with powder coating, you often get what you pay for — a company that cuts corners on surface preparation or application may come cheaper, but the coating will be severely lacking in quality and longevity.
You should compare the prices of powder coating companies you’re considering only after confirming that they’re experienced, fully certified and capable of providing services that meet your standards.
Insurance
If you’re selling metallic products, you want to ensure that everything you offer is safe and built to last. You need to know you can trust your service providers to do quality work — and that you will be protected if anything goes wrong. For that reason, you want to confirm that the powder coating company you plan to hire is insured.
The company should have product liability insurance that protects them as a service provider and you as a recipient of those services. Product liability insurance covers medical costs, legal fees and compensatory damages brought forth by third parties in cases such as the following:
- Wrongful death
- Illness
- Bodily injuries
- Damage to someone’s property
Product liability insurance also covers issues such as manufacturing defects, design defects, marketing defects, strict liability and improper warnings. Even if you’re entirely confident in your product and the finishing service you’ve chosen, it’s wise to have this protection in place.
Turnaround Time
As a business owner with customers waiting for their finished products, you need to know that your shipments will make it out on time. You are responsible for ensuring you work with a company that is efficient enough to meet your deadlines. If you work with strict schedules, turnaround time should be a priority factor when shopping for a powder coating company.
The turnaround time should also accommodate any adjustments or changes you may need before the product is complete. At Keystone Koating, we have the capability to turn a large volume of parts around in a short timeline and can handle orders of any volume.
Understanding of Various Manufacturing Processes
You can use powder coating on many types of metallic components, but there are some scenarios in which this process may not be the best fit. Factors such as the desired finish, the type of substrate, and the size and shape of the coated component can affect the compatibility of the powder coating process with a specific manufacturing operation.
Components with tight tolerances or intricate shapes may not be suitable for a powder coated finish. Other parts may require specialized techniques or equipment to achieve the desired results. You should work with experienced professionals like Keystone Koating who will guide you in choosing the appropriate coating process and the modifications needed to ensure the product turns out as expected.
Get Quality Powder Coating Services From Keystone Koating
When applied by a professional service, powder coating is a superior finish due to its resistance to abrasion and corrosion, durability, and aesthetic appeal. It also offers many different texture and color options to choose from, making it the preferred type of finish for metal parts ranging from automotive engine components to outdoor commercial furniture.
At Keystone Koating, we have the equipment and expertise to handle virtually any powder coating project at any order volume. We even have our own quality assurance lab on-site to ensure that our coatings are able to meet your performance expectations.
Ready to learn more about what makes us a top powder coating service provider? Contact our team online for more information or request a quote on a coating project today.
