Is Powder Coating Heat Resistant?
Powder coating’s durability and affordability have made our high temperature powder coating a favorite amongst our clients. With its ability to adhere strongly to most metals, it is a great option to consider for your upcoming project. And, if you’re wondering whether or not it’s heat resistant, the short answer is, “yes”.
The long answer is a bit more detailed, so please continue below to learn about some of our high-temperature powder coating options.
What is High Temperature Powder Coating?
Powder coating is one of the most common coating methods that professionals turn to when they require fast, even, and reliable industrial finishing. Applied as a free-flowing dry powder, the coating provides unparalleled versatility thanks to its easy application. Unlike conventional liquid paints, which require an evaporating solvent for application, powder coating uses electrostatic application methods before being cured under high heat. Most powders require baking at around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-20 minutes to fully cure.
Here at Crest Coating Inc., we have a variety of different high temperature coatings available, and bring our long history of experience and expertise to help our clients find the right products for their specific needs. Thanks to the high temperatures at which it is cured, powder coating is viable in conditions that may not be suitable for other coating techniques. From exhaust and mufflers to heat shields and industrial equipment, high-temperature uses are completely viable. But just how far does that heat resistance go? The truth is, a powder coating’s heat resistance varies with the materials that are used. An epoxy coating will be very different from a nylon, fluoropolymer, or ceramic coating, for example.
There are four heat resistance categories that powders will generally fall under:
- Ambient to 200°F
- Up to 500°F
- Up to 800°F
- Up to 1,800°F
So, depending on the temperatures and environment you expect to see, we have a range of coatings that we can recommend. Read below to see a few examples:
General Ambient Temperature Powder Coatings
The most common powder coatings can withstand temperatures between ambient to 200°F, although most are on the lower end of the spectrum. These general powders will do the trick for most typical applications, but may be susceptible to significant color change and other issues once you start pushing that 200°F+ range. As a rule of thumb, general powders can be used on most external components without a problem, but should be avoided when temperatures are expected to exceed 150°F, like engine components or exhaust parts.
>>> Related Article: When to Choose Nylon Powder Coating
Fluoropolymer Mid-Range Powder Coating
The next level up with regard to heat resistance is the use of Fluoropolymer coatings. Fluoropolymers are a family of plastic resins which are based on fluorine/carbon bonds. This coating is characterized by its multiple carbon–fluorine bonds, and is often most commonly seen on Teflon coated frying pans. These are usually rated between 300°F to 500°F and are a great choice if additional properties are desired like non-stick performance, chemical, or abrasion resistance. Some fluoropolymer powder coatings are also commonly used on exterior applications of commercial and residential high-rise buildings.
Specialty High Temperature Powder Coating
Need even more heat resistance? That’s going to push you into specialty high temperature powder territory. The specialty high temperature powder coatings we have available are rated between 600-800°F, and withstand these higher temperatures while still offering good corrosion resistance and some unique cosmetic options. These are ideal for protecting the exhaust components we mentioned earlier on, as well as heater shrouds and other commercial products from high-temperatures. Despite the high temperature rating, high-temperature powder coating is not recommended for direct flame exposure.
High Temperature Ceramic Coating
Ceramic coatings are the highest heat resistance category readily available to be applied by coating. Rated to temperatures up to 1,800°F, this is the ideal material to use when your project involves extreme heat environments. High temperature ceramic coatings can also perform as a thermal insulator, reducing the amount of heat that radiates from a surface – making them ideal for the most demanding automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications. Furthermore, many of these coating options only require an ambient cure, and possess excellent wear properties, allowing them to be applied to a wide range of substrates. Their versatility and strength are why ceramic coatings are often found in sub-sea applications, in your engine compartment, in aircraft, and basically anywhere that you’ll find extreme levels of heat, pressure, and friction.
High Temperature Powder Coating: Trust Us With Your Needs
Crest Coating, Inc., established in 1967, has unsurpassed experience and knowledge in industrial powder coating services and exotic liquid coatings. For over 40 years we have retained the status of Chemours Licensed Industrial Applicator, as well as Approved Applicator for Whitford Xylan®, Halar®, BCS Technologies, and other exotic coatings. We have experience working on complex projects and provide expertise and support for any of our clients’ needs.
At Crest Coating, we value the extensive coating and application knowledge of our staff, who have decades of experience. To find the right coating for your next project, fill out this quick form today, or contact one of our experts by calling 714-635-7090.