The pretreatment stage of powder coating process, also known as parts prep, is crucial to the success of the finish. Ensuring that the parts are properly cleaned and prepared to accept the powder coating may be the most critical step. This step ensures the powder coating adheres properly, resulting in a long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, protective layer. Most defects in a powder coated part are due to inadequate pretreatment.
Different materials require different pretreatment approaches and often, there are strict guidelines that need to be met. Step one in pretreating parts begins with cleaning – mostly with chemicals. The amount of cleaning required is dependent on the condition of the parts. Is the part brand new and relatively clean? Or has it been sitting on the manufacturing floor or outdoors for weeks and gotten rusty? Is there oil, grease, or welding spatter on the part that needs to be removed?
Manual pretreatment cleaning methods, such as using a pump sprayer or spray wand, are common for most shops. With this set-up, an operator manually applies chemicals using specific equipment. Sometimes pretreatment with chemicals is not enough to correct surface imperfections – in these cases, mechanical preparation, such as media blasting, may be necessary.
As mentioned above, proper pretreatment ensures a successful powder coating result. A durable finish provides a long-lasting protective layer against corrosion. Production Systems can help your company set up an effective pretreatment process. We offer a variety of pretreatment booths. Our booths are durable enough to withstand the chemicals that will be sprayed in them. Contact us and speak to one of our engineers to get started.
