Yes, you can touch up Powder Coating in the field
November 4, 2024
Quality Control Record Keeping
December 11, 2024When it comes to enhancing the durability and aesthetics of metal surfaces, powder coating has become a go-to choice for many industries. One of the most appealing aspects of powder coating is the vast array of colors and finishes available.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different colours and finishes available for powder coating, along with some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
A Rainbow of Options
Standard Colors
Most powder coating suppliers offer a wide selection of standard colours that include everything from bold primary colours to metallics.
Here are some common categories:
- Blacks and Whites: These classic shades are incredibly versatile and are commonly used in a variety of different industries.
- Primary Colors: Bright reds, blues, and yellows can make a striking statement. These colors are often used in playground equipment and outdoor signage.
- Earth Tones: Colors like browns, greens, and tans are perfect for architectural projects and structures, blending seamlessly with natural environments.
- Metallics: Metallic powders contain shimmering particles that give a reflective finish. Silver, gold, and copper are popular choices that can add a touch of elegance to any piece.
- Neon Colors: For those looking to stand out, neon colors are available in vibrant pinks, greens, and yellows. However, these colors may have limited availability and often require a clear coat for added protection and durability, as neon powders can be less resilient than standard colors.
Custom Colours
Creating a custom colour for powder coating
"Can you match a Benjamin Moore colour?"
The question often arises whether any colour can be matched in powder – the answer is YES!
For projects requiring a specific hue, custom powder coating is an option. Many manufacturers can match colours to specific samples or reference systems like Pantone or RAL.
When a project requires a colour that is not readily available from a manufacturer, a physical sample can be provided for custom colour matching.
It's best to use a physical sample instead of a colour code so that the powder manufacturer is able to observe the match under the same light.
It is always best to observe a powder sample in the same light that the project is meant to exist in.
How does it work?
Process:
- Powder Coating is a dry powder made from resins, pigments, and additives. When applied, it is cured under heat, allowing it to form a hard, durable finish.
- Colour matching is more complex with powder coatings because pigments behave differently when mixed into a solid medium (powder form) compared to a liquid.
- Powder coating colours are typically matched by blending different powdered pigments and resins. This mixture is then melted and extruded during the formulation process.
- The lab technicians create a batch of the powder that they believe will match the target colour.
- To test the match, the powder is applied to a test panel, cured (usually in an oven at high temperatures), and then visually and spectrophotometrically analyzed to ensure it matches the desired colour.
Challenges:
- Since the finish of powder coatings is highly influenced by the curing process (temperature, time), slight variations in these factors can lead to noticeable differences in colour.
- The gloss level, texture, and type of powder (such as polyester, epoxy, or hybrid) can also affect colour appearance.
- Getting an exact colour match can require multiple iterations.
Approval Process:
- Once the lab is satisfied with the colour, they prepare sample panels using the powder-coated finish.
- The samples are sent to the client for visual inspection and approval. Clients may also compare the colour using a spectrophotometer for a precise match against standards.
- If adjustments are needed, the powder formulation is tweaked and the process is repeated.
Custom-matched powder coatings tend to be more expensive due to the complex process along with the required specialized equipment. This is compounded by some suppliers requiring a large minimum order quantity (MOQ), making it a costlier option, especially for smaller runs or custom projects.
Specialty Finishes
Beyond colour, powder coatings come in a variety of finishes:
- Gloss: A shiny finish that is highly reflective. Great for showcasing colour vibrancy. However, high gloss can also reveal imperfections below the coating.
- Matte: Offers a more subdued look, which can help mask imperfections and create a sophisticated finish. Also less susceptible to fading due to UV exposure.
- Textured: This finish adds depth and dimension, often used for industrial applications or outdoor furniture. Also referred to as sandtex.
- Wrinkle: A unique texture that can hide fingerprints and scratches, commonly used in automotive and appliance finishes.
- Hammered: This finish mimics the look of hand-hammered metal, providing a rustic, artisanal appearance.
Where to go next?
If you have a colour in mind for your next project, reach out to us to see if we have something similar. If not, we can work with you to find the right colour for your project.
