How we treat your parts

A great finish starts long before the powder goes on. Here is what happens to your parts, step by step. Not every part needs every step, so we only do what your parts need.

1. 1

   Clean the parts

   We start by removing dirt, grease, and oil. Powder can’t stick to a dirty surface, so a clean part is the foundation of a finish that lasts.

2. 2
   If necessary

   Chemical strip

   If a part already has old paint, powder, or another coating, we strip it off with a chemical remover. That way the new finish bonds to bare metal.

3. 3
   Depends on the part material

   Outgas

   Some metals, especially cast parts, can trap moisture and gases inside. We heat the part first so they can escape. This helps prevent bubbles and pinholes in your finish.

4. 4

   Media blast

   We blast the part with fine abrasive media to remove rust and leftover residue. It also gives the surface a light texture that the powder can grip.

5. 5
   When applicable

   Chemical etch

   On certain metals, such as some aluminum parts, a chemical etch cleans the surface at a microscopic level and helps the coating hold on.

6. 6

   Shoot the powder

   We spray dry powder onto the part. The powder carries an electric charge, so it clings to the part evenly, including edges and curves.

7. 7

   Cure in the oven

   The coated part is heated to its curing temperature, typically 400°F. The powder melts, flows into a smooth layer, and hardens into a tough finish.

8. 8

   Quality inspection

   Before your parts go back to you, we inspect them for coverage, smoothness, and overall finish quality.