Powder coating is a great way to add extra protection and durability to a variety of products — but how do you know what items can be powder coated? While a majority of products can be powder coated, some items are more suitable for powder coating than others. Use our guide below to learn what type of materials work best with powder coating. Plus, take a look at some examples of specific items for varying industries.
What Materials Can Be Powder Coated?
Powder coating can be a great option for a variety of materials. In general, as long as the material can withstand the 400 degrees Fahrenheit heat from the curing oven without melting or burning, it can be powder coated. Additionally, the material also needs to be able to hold an electrostatic charge in order for the powder coating process to work.
Some of the most common materials that benefit from powder coating include:
- Aluminum: Aluminum items have a melting point starting at around 650 degrees Fahrenheit, so this material can easily handle the powder coating curing process. Aluminum requires some special attention when it comes to prepping the surface, but overall, aluminum can benefit from powder coating.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel has a high melting point, great strength and excellent electrostatic charge, making it one of the best materials to use with powder coating.
- Wood: With proper preparation, some types of wood can be suitable materials for powder coating.
Some plastic can also be powder coated — however, it may not always be the most cost-effective option. First, the plastic must be able to withstand the curing temperature without melting. Typically, the only plastic that is suitable for this process is polysulfone, which is a high-temp plastic. Plastic items also require special techniques and materials to properly undergo powder coating.
Often, the extra cost of the unique plastic powder coating process may not be considered worth it. That said, a unique product or circumstance may lead to powder coating being a worthwhile option. You can always speak to a professional powder coating service provider and seek a second opinion to see if your plastic items would benefit from powder coating.
Powder-Coated Items in Architectural and Construction Industries
Powder coating allows architects and construction managers to incorporate strong, durable materials that also meet strict design requirements. Building materials, landscaping items and other objects can benefit from the extra durability and weather resistance that comes with powder coating. Plus, color matching is available, so each item can perfectly align with the design of the space to create a beautiful, long-lasting look.
Some items that are commonly powder coated for architecture and construction include:
- Windows
- Building exteriors
- Electrical fixtures
- Doorframes
- Light poles
- Guard rails
- Fencing
- Road signs
- Kitchen and bathroom appliances or fixtures
Powder-Coated Items in the Automotive Industry
The automotive industry commonly uses powder coating to ensure a product’s durability and improve its wear resistance. Powder coating can also be used to improve the visual appeal of automotive products. Powder coating for the automotive industry is an ideal solution for businesses with large-volume orders, as some providers like Keystone Koating can process up to 1,000 pounds of product at each location.
Automotive items that can be powder coated include:
- Fuel and oil filters
- Battery trays
- Shock absorbers
- Brake pads
- Suspension components
- Radiators
- Wheels
- Grills
- Bumpers
- Door handles
- Interior and exterior trim
Some automotive businesses will also use clear powder coating as a top coat to prevent chipping, corrosion, ultraviolet damage and weather damage. So, even if a business does not need powder coating for the design aspect, it can still benefit from the protective properties of the coating.
Agriculture Items and Tools That Use Powder Coating
The agriculture industry is another field where powder coating can be useful for a variety of items and tools. Equipment and tools used in agriculture are frequently exposed to demanding conditions like rain, intense sun and more. Powder coating can help keep these items looking and performing their best for years to come.
Common agricultural items that use powder coating include:
- Tractor parts
- Plows
- Wire fencing
- Posts
- Gates
- Water troughs
Items in the Aviation and Aerospace Industries That Can Use Powder Coating
Aerospace and aviation equipment have the unique challenge of dealing with changing atmospheres. These items will also likely encounter rough weather and direct exposure to the elements. A protective coating of powder coating can help prevent these items from experiencing corrosion, among other benefits.
The following aerospace and aviation items can benefit from powder coating:
- Satellite components
- Panels
- Structural parts
- Launch parts
HVAC Powder Coating Applications
HVAC systems are also exposed to extreme conditions and harsh weather. Powder coating can help these systems maintain their strength and prevent corrosion. This can help keep the HVAC system in good working condition for years to come. Businesses that use powder coating for HVAC parts and systems can provide their customers with more durable and efficient products.
Powder coating can be used for the following HVAC products:
- Air conditioners
- Coils
- Condensing units
- Ductwork
- Heaters
- Ventilation
Powder Coated Home and Furniture Items
Powder coating is not only for technical machinery — simple items like furniture can also benefit from powder coating. Protective powder coating can help keep furniture looking great even after continuous use.
Furniture intended for children or outside use can especially benefit from powder coating. The additional strength and durability of powder coating can help keep furniture, such as school desks, in great condition.
Additionally, outdoor furniture is subjected to unpredictable and sometimes harsh weather. Using a powder coating that has excellent weather resistance can give customers peace of mind that their furniture can handle a variety of weather elements.
Examples of furniture that can be powder coated include:
- Benches
- Bike racks
- Chairs
- Desks
- Grills
- Metal furniture
- Picnic tables
- Trash cans
Schedule Powder Coating Services With Keystone Koating
For over 30 years, our team at Keystone Koating has provided a variety of industries with high-quality, durable powder coating services. We use our advanced industry knowledge, special attention to detail and exceptional powder coating process to provide our clients with great powder coating solutions.
At Keystone Koating, we also have the experience and capabilities to handle large-volume orders for a variety of industries. Regardless of your industry, we can work with you to find the ideal powder coating solutions for your specific needs. Contact our team today to request a quote and learn more about our unique capabilities.