We expect a lot of our vehicles. We rely on them to get us to jobs and to transport our favorite people…to accomplish the tasks of the day and to take us away in our leisure time…and for simple self-expression and enjoyment. And for all these reasons, we require durability, performance, and aesthetics as key values from those manufacturing our vehicles.
It’s in exactly these categories – durability, performance, and aesthetics – that powder coating proves itself to be an invaluable ally and contributor to the automotive industry.
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Why Is Powder Coating Used in the Automotive Industry?
What exactly is powder coating, and what unique benefits can it bring in the automotive realm?
Powder coating is an innovative coating method, distinct from traditional paints, that offers a powerfully resilient finish to a number of automotive components, from rims to chassis and body panels to engine parts. If you like customizability, durability, and reliability, you’ll love the way powder coating has revolutionized vehicle finishing, becoming an industry standard for excellence.
Powder coating forms a barrier that stands up to the rigors of the road with a higher degree of strength, enduring harsh environmental conditions and frequent handling, and still comes out on the other side looking pristine.
In addition to its high level of durability, powder coating is a compelling choice in terms of its extreme versatility. Looking for a sleek, sporty solid? A striking matte finish? A vibrant metallic hue? Whatever your vision, we supply endless possibilities for customization. At BoroTek, we offer over 6,500 colors, tones, and textures, so you can let your imagination run wild!
What Parts of a Car Are Typically Powder Coated?
The versatility of powder coating extends to virtually every metal-based component of an automobile, and it offers its advantages to cover a variety of functions. For instance, powder coating helps rims withstand high temperatures generated by friction. It offers a chip-resistant finish that makes wheels look attractive while protecting them from corrosion and abrasion.
Similar benefits result from powder coating the chassis, which functions as a structural backbone of a vehicle – resistance to corrosion and enhanced durability of the chassis helps ensure the long-term structural integrity and safety of the vehicle as a whole.
Engine parts from intake manifold, to valve covers and engine blocks enjoy improved heat resistance and aesthetic appeal even under high temperatures and potential chemical exposure.
Because powder coating is a thick, uniform, customizable coating, it’s also excellent for body panels, where it gives unparalleled finesse and also protects against chips and dents.
What Are the Advantages of Powder Coating Over Traditional Paint?
There’s a reason powder coating is surpassing traditional liquid paints in the automotive sphere. Liquid paints are prone to chipping, scratching and fading over time, whereas powder coating forms a durable, bonded layer which is highly resistant to these signs of wear. This results in a longer lifespan with reduced need for touch-ups to maintain appearance and performance.
Powder coating also has environmental benefits over liquid paints, which often contain solvents and volatile organic compounds. Powder coatings contain no solvents and emit very low amounts of VOCs when applied, making them a more environmentally sustainable option. Additionally, the process of powder coating results in less material waste and is more time-efficient.
Finally, powder coating’s customizability gives a wide scope of creative options to those enthusiasts who crave individuality or custom style.
How Is Powder Coating Applied to Automotive Parts?
Before coating, the surface of the automotive part is prepared to promote proper adhesion. This may involve cleaning and degreasing, sandblasting, or chemical etching to ensure contaminants are removed and the surface is receptive to the coating.
Powder coating is applied to the prepared surface using a specialized spray gun. The electrostatically charged powder adheres evenly to the grounded surface of the metal part. The part is then cured via heating. During the curing process, the powder particles fuse together, forming the strong, seamless finish that makes powder coating so powerful.
After curing is complete, the now-coated parts cool and are carefully inspected for quality.
How Does Powder Coating Affect Vehicle Performance?
In a word: positively. Critical automotive components enjoy a longer, more durable and functional existence when powder coated. Vehicles are subject to corrosion, abrasion, weather damage, and other environmental risks, and powder coating provides a protective barrier against these.
A vehicle may be more than the sum of its parts – but each part is important. Powder coating helps preserve structural integrity and proper functioning of individual parts, which in turn helps the vehicle run more reliably and look good doing it.
Can Powder-Coated Automotive Parts Be Repaired or Recoated?
While one advantage of powder coating is its toughness, powder-coated parts can be recoated or repaired if needed – or if desired for a change in style. The surface will typically require sanding to remove existing coating as a predecessor to additional surface preparation and recoating. Sometimes, small repairs can be made without stripping all the part’s coating.
Need Powder Coating Services Near Nashville? Call Us
Powder coating has been a game-changer in the automotive industry because of the performance, durability, and style it offers. But, of course, its applications don’t end there. If you want to know what’s possible for your automobile, appliances, garden supplies, patio furniture, and more, don’t hesitate to reach out today.