Powder Coating

First development in the 1940s and early 1950s, the powder coating process was initially organic polymers (or macromolecules) that were "flame sprayed" in a powder form onto metallic bases. 

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Then in the early 1950s, German scientist Dr. Erwin Gemmer developed and patented a fluidized bed process for thermosetting powder coatings. This quicker and more efficient method of powder coating was used in nearly all powder processes from 1958 forward and is still used today. 

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At the time, American manufacturers realized that this coating process was a very good idea but still did not have the right equipment to make the process accurate, efficient and cost effective enough to utilize as a real coating solution for most industries. 

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In the early 19602 and 1970s, two developments combined to create growing interest in the powder coating process. First, the growing ecology movement and secondly, new application techniques. The combination of these two things led to the method's success. 

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Application by electrostatic spray-powder particles are charged and then sprayed onto a grounded material-was developed in the 1960s. Charged particles stick by electrostatic attraction, melt and are then cured in ovens. This process helped powder coating become and environmentally friendly, convenient and affordable choice for a wide variety of industries.

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Powder coating releases no volatile organic compounds (VOCS) into the atmosphere like wet paints and:

• Can be applied at different thicknesses without running

• Is long-lasting and durable when exposed to heat, water and UV rays

• Provides a variety of finishes and textural effects

• Provides a more flexible coating than wet paints

• Cures more quickly than liquid due to the baking process

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Additionally, the powder that does not stick to the grounded part can be reclaimed and reused which is another environmental plus.