How to Clean Parts Before Powder Coating

Person cleaning metal before powder coating

Whether it be outdoor patio furniture, your car, or a basic household object, powder coating is a great way to preserve the surface of your metal parts. The process has become very popular over the years because of its effectiveness, affordability, and safety for the environment. When attempting to apply this technique though, there are some steps you need to take beforehand in order to assure that your surface is in good condition to be coated. This includes thoroughly cleaning the metal and smoothing the material so that the powder goes on uniformly. In order to inform those who are curious about the proper preparatory actions of this technique, Coating Systems decided to lay out the suggested process to follow before coating your items with powder.

Gather Supplies

Before you begin the cleaning, smoothing and powder coating process, there are some items to make sure you have handy. These include:

  • Clean cloth
  • Degreaser
  • Protective gloves
  • Sandblaster

Cleaning the Surface

Before starting the sandblasting process, you should wipe down the surface of your part with a clean rag, attempting to remove any loose dirt and residue. From there, you may utilize the degreaser to try to clear up any of the grease and oil that may be adhering to your pieces. The gloves can come in handy here for making sure your hands are not dirty and sticky. Once you have wiped down the metal, you’re one step closer to being ready for the powder coating.
Related Post: Coating Systems Explains Common Powder Coating Mistakes to Avoid

Sandblasting

Now that you have made efforts to clean the metal, it’s time to sandblast your surface so that you can remove any corrosion or ingrained dirt. To effectively sandblast your object, it is good to suspend the item in the air by a chain so that you can access all sides of it. Make sure to wear protective clothing and glasses so that you do not get injured from the sandblaster, as the small abrasives can seriously harm your body. Following a detailed sandblasting, the surface of your part should be noticeably smoother, rust-free and ready to have a powder coating applied.
Related Post: Coating Systems Looks at Common Sandblasting Mistakes

Contact Coating Systems for More Information on Powder Coating

Powder coating can be a tricky process to execute effectively, so it’s important to take the necessary steps for making sure your parts are in good condition. Carrying out this technique can require a good deal of skill, but the experts at Coating Systems are happy to take care of your coating needs. To find out how we can help, contact us at 1-800-593-7754.