A powder coating is a dry finishing application. The material consists of two specific types of materials finely ground together. These are a pigment and a resin. The coatings are either thermoset or thermoplastic. In the instance of a polyester coating, it is the former. If a part is to weather a harsh exterior environment in Grand Rapids, polyester powder coatings may be the perfect solution, providing protection.
Polyester Powder Coatings: Basic Types
Polyester powder coatings are available in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Among the various types are the following:
- Polyester triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC): This continues to be the most commonly applied in shops in Grand Rapids, MI and elsewhere in North America. It is the most popular of these three particularly because it is ideal for building up in layers
- Polyester TGIC-free: In Europe, this type of polyester powder coating is more popular. It is applied easily and has a high transfer efficiency producing a very smooth surface
- Polyester/isocyanate: Often called a Polyurethane coating, this is frequently an exterior application featuring higher levels of chemical resistance than other types of polyester powder coatings do
Although not the only categories of polyester powder coating, these are the most common. A more recent development, however, known as super-durable polyester resins is increasingly receiving attention in parts of the Coastal and Southern United States
Properties of Polyester Powder Coatings
Polyester coatings share much of the same qualities as other coatings. They can be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Whether chosen for a decorative or practical purpose, this type of coating provides the substrate surface with many desirable properties. These consist of, but are not limited to, the following:
- Hard surface
- Weather resistance
- Long-term exterior durability
- UV stability
- Good abrasion resistance
- Decent color preservation
- Gloss retention
- Chemical resistance
- Good impact resistance
- Overbake resistance
Polyester powder coatings are available to customers in an extensive assortment of shades and colors. They can also be textured to produce specific effects and may be applied in a gloss, satin or matt to customer specifications.
Polyester Powder Coating
Polyester powder coatings have an estimated 60 or more percent of the powder coating market. They retain their popularity because of their ability to withstand a harsh environment. For finishing shops in Grand Rapids, the application of a polyester powder coating can help a customer’s product satisfy the rigorous specifications its working conditions will place on it.