Powder coating paint is divided into thermoplastic and thermosetting polymer. Thermoplastic is applied in a fluidized bed process, while thermosetting undergoes cross-linking. Four categories of thermosetting powders are epoxies, acrylics, polyesters, and fluoropolymers, each with unique properties. Epoxy is impact and scratch resistant but not weather-resistant. Polyester is popular for outdoor use. Acrylic is used in the automotive industry for a crystal clear gloss finish. Fluoropolymer provides the highest quality weather-resistant finishes and is used in architectural and highly corrosive environments.
Powder coating paint can be divided into two main categories; thermoplastic powder and thermosetting polymer. Both types of powder coating paint require heat to flow and form an even film. Each type of paint has its own unique chemical properties and method of application.
Thermoplastic powder is typically applied in a fluidized bed process. No electrostatic charging is required. This type of paint is usually applied to a part heated to a temperature well above the melting point of the powder. The heat causes the powder to melt, adhere to the piece and form a uniform, scratch-resistant paint film. Unlike thermosetting polymers, thermoplastic powders remain chemically unchanged throughout the process, meaning they can be remelted and reused.
Thermosetting powder coat paint differs from thermoplastic powder in that it undergoes a chemical change, called cross-linking, as it cures. After it has been heat cured, this type of finish cannot be remelted or reused. Thermoset polymers tend to be more durable than thermoplastics and offer a wider variety of finishes.
There are four categories of thermosetting powders which are based on the type of resin used as a base. The four base resins used for thermosetting powders are epoxies, acrylics, polyesters, and fluoropolymers. In the production of thermosetting polymers, the resins are typically first ground into a fine powder to make them suitable for spray gun application.
The epoxy-based powder coating is both impact and scratch resistant. Its inability to withstand bad weather and ultraviolet rays generally limits its use to indoor applications. Epoxy powder coating paint is typically used for coating household appliances, automobile underbody parts, and industrial equipment. It’s also a popular choice for painting metal furniture, such as bed frames and futons.
Polyester resins are among the most popular of all types of powder coating paint. They are resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light and perfect for outdoor use. Polyester-based thermosetting polymers are often used to coat patio furniture, lawn and garden equipment, car and truck wheels, and many other items that are continually exposed to the elements. These finishes are weather resistant and offer good corrosion protection.
Acrylic thermosetting powders are most often used in the automotive industry. These powders offer a chip-resistant, crystal clear gloss finish, and these properties make acrylic resins perfect for automotive clear coat. Acrylic resins are also used as additives to other powder coating materials, such as polyester, to improve flow and leveling and to increase chemical resistance in the final finish.
Fluoropolymer powders provide the highest quality weather resistant finishes. This type of paint is generally used in architectural applications, such as metal building facades or light poles, and for industrial equipment. Fluoropolymers are also widely used to coat items used in highly corrosive environments, such as marine equipment.
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