1. Properly prep your piece : You must remove any corrosion or previous coatings before powder coating. Just as you would prep the part for a high quality paint job. Corrosion can be removed with abrasive blasting, wire brush or chemicals. Pervious coatings can easily be removed with liquid paint strippe r
After you have removed any corrosion or coatings thoroughly wipe down the part with lacquer thinner or acetone to completely remove any residual grease or oils
You must mask any areas where you do not want powder. Powder is very durable and therefore it is very tough to remove. The supplied tape is used to mask areas and the plugs will mask any threaded holes.
NOTE: The masking tape and plugs are applied before powder application and removed after the oven cure and cool down.
TIP: Tip mask large areas you can use aluminum foil along with the masking tape .
4. Part hanging :
Parts can either be hung from below the oven rack or set on top. Just as with liquid coating if any area of the part touches the oven rack lit will leave a mark, so you best finish is obtained by hanging below the rack with the supplied hooks.
TIP: You can also use un-coated coat hangers or steel wire to hang parts
5. Spraying:
Powder application is very simple and straightforward. Simply fill the powder cup with your desired color of powder and spray!
6. Curing:
The powder must be heat cured to transform it from a solid powder (similar to flour) into a gel state that allows the particles to melt and adhere to the surface. This operation MUST be performed in a non-food prep oven. The oven is preheated to 400F; once the part is powder coated carefully move the oven rack into the oven. Check the part every 5 minutes until the ENTIRE part has turned from a dry powder state to the gel state (this is easily identified as the powder will be glossy and look wet). Once this happens set your timer for 20 minutes. Once cured allow the part to cure and put back in service
TIP: Small toaster ovens can be obtained for about $20 or even less at flea markets. Start with this size and then keep your eyes open for associates, friends, etc that are upgrading their kitchen oven. Once you start powder coating you will realize the benefits, ease and want to do larger parts!
What can be powder coated:
Essentially any metal object that can withstand the 400 F cure temperature can be powder coated. Objects that have gaskets, wires, grease seals, bearings or plastic components must first be disassembled to remove these components that will not with stand the cure temperature
