Powder Coating for the Masses!

Powder Coating FAQ

What is it?

A plastic finish that goes on as a powder, then is baked to create a durable finish.

Why powder coat?

Very easy to get good results. Minor surface imperfections are filled in and smoothed out. Major surface imperfections can be hidden with a wrinkle-coat.

Limitations?

You can only do it on metal, and only on pieces that are small enough to go into your electric toaster oven.

What do I need?

Air compressor. Powder coat gun. Water filter and pressure regulator for the compressor. The powder. A toaster oven for baking the finish on.

Can I spray the powder on indoors?

I do! Less wind indoors. Parts go in a big box which contain most of the powder overspray. The rest is vacuumed or wiped up, or I inhale it. You'll blow your nose the powder coat color for a while. Dusk mask is recommended.

How long does it stay in the oven?

I generally use a high-temperature (450) until "flowout", when the powder melts and gets all glossy. That takes about 5 minutes. Then 15-20 minutes at 375 to cure it. If not cured enough, it will chip off with a fingernail. But you can stick it back in the oven.

Special Techniques?

With larger pieces I do each side separately. Powder-coat one side, bake it until "flowout" then let it cool and power-coat the other side. Back into the oven for cure.

Preparation?

I use a soap pad (steel wool) to get the printing off the metel. Then dry and spray!.