Metal fabrication is an essential industry that supports the world’s infrastructure and economy. Nearly every aspect of civilization benefits from some form of metal fabricated product. From household appliances to vehicles, no part of daily life would be the same without metals like carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Powder coating is a high-quality, long-lasting finishing process that adds value and longevity to metal parts and products. This post will explain what metal finishing is and why it’s important, how powder coating works, and the great benefits of powder coating for steel baskets and carts in manufacturing.
What is Metal Finishing?
Metal finishing is the process of altering the surface of a metal product to improve its appearance, durability, and resistance to corrosion and other forms of wear and tear. The metal finishing process may involve various techniques, including plating, painting, and powder coating. Each finishing technique has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the choice of finishing method depends on the desired outcome of the product.
What is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a type of metal finishing that involves the application of a dry powder to a metal surface. The powder is electrostatically charged, causing it to adhere to the metal surface. The coated metal is then baked in an oven, causing the powder to melt and form a hard, durable finish. It is primarily used on metal materials, such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and brass, but can also be applied to a variety of non-metals, including glass or fiberboard.
Benefits
Steel baskets and carts are vital components in many manufacturing processes. They are used to transport materials, products, and equipment throughout the factory floor. As such, these steel baskets and carts are exposed to harsh conditions, including high temperatures, moisture, and corrosive chemicals. Powder coating is an ideal finishing process for these steel baskets and carts, offering the following benefits:
Durability
Powder coating protects steel products by creating a durable seal that reduces wear and tear and improves resistance to corrosion and rusting. As a result, powder-coated steel baskets and carts are long-lasting, even with little maintenance. Powder coating leaves metal products with a hard and durable finish. It’s perhaps the toughest overall finish found on consumer goods, commercial equipment, and industrial surfaces. Powder-coated objects withstand adverse conditions like severe weather, chemical contact, and physical collision. This allows trouble-free daily use and product longevity far beyond what painted or plated surfaces can offer.
Aesthetic Appeal
Powder coating creates a smooth, uniform surface for your steel fabrication projects. It’s also highly customizable, with various surface finishes, colors, and textures available to create your desired appearance. Colors are pre-mixed in the powder pigments by the supplier. That’s done in factory settings with computer-controlled mixing ratios. Carefully pre-mixed powders allow for perfect color distribution that’s difficult to achieve with wet paint products.
Low Maintenance
Powder coating requires little maintenance to keep it looking good and working well. All you need to do is wash the product with regular soap and rinse it off with water as needed. No reapplication or special cleaning solutions are necessary. This makes products virtually maintenance-free under normal use. There’s no need for occasional repainting. Powder-coated surfaces are simply washed with regular detergent and water.
Corrosion Resistance
Rusting is always a problem for metal fabricated products. Outdoor pieces get pounded by rain, snow, sleet, and hail. Indoor products also suffer corrosion through high humidity and water exposure. Because powder-coated equipment is so thoroughly and evenly covered, there is no opportunity for moisture to seep through to metal pores. Without question, corrosion resistance is a chief benefit gained.
Environmentally Friendly
Powder coating is an environmentally friendly finishing process. Unlike traditional wet painting methods, powder coating doesn’t produce any volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This makes it a safer and more sustainable finishing option for both the environment and those who work with the product. Powder coating doesn’t require the use of solvents or chemicals, making it an ideal finishing process for manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Conclusion
Powder coating is a high-quality, long-lasting finishing process that offers a wide range of benefits for steel baskets and carts in manufacturing. From improving durability and resistance to corrosion to offering a customizable aesthetic appeal, powder coating is an ideal finishing process for manufacturers looking to improve the lifespan and performance of their steel baskets and carts. Additionally, it is an environmentally friendly finishing option that can help manufacturers reduce their environmental impact. Contact Salco today to learn more about our finishing services.