Is It Necessary to Sandblast Before Powder Coating？

Certainly! Sandblasting is a crucial preparatory step that cannot be overlooked when gearing up for powder coating. Ensuring a flawless finish and prolonged durability hinges on this preliminary process.

So, What Exactly Is Sandblasting?

It uses a blasting machine fitted with abrasive materials typically sand to clean surfaces scrupulously by removing dirt stains or previous finishes. Known as dry abrasive blasting as well, this method requires the operator to be aware of different media and how they are used effectively for best results.

Why Does Everything Have to Start with Sandblasting before Powder Coating?

It's because metal surfaces, with time in the process of daily use, tend to attract all sorts of contaminants. Trying to go on with powder coating such a surface is like going to war without armor. It has clear repercussions – whatever foreign particles are left on the surface can cause an uneven finish and will therefore ruin the effectiveness of the coating. So, it is absolutely necessary to have a clean surface that is free from oxidation and contamination. One needs to remove debris, rust, paint, oils, plating, and similar substances in order to reach the ideal level of cleanliness.

This is where sandblasting comes as the unbeatable choice for anyone considering powder coating. Other cleaning methods simply won't provide the accuracy and depth required by this delicate process. Your quest for a seamless finish that will stand the test of time begins with the pinpoint accuracy of sandblasting – the most precise method there is for preparing surfaces for powder coating.

Advantages of Sandblasting Before Powder Coating

Surely, what do you stand to benefit from sandblasting, is it worth it? Let’s find out.

1.   Effectively Gets Rid of All Contaminants

We cannot emphasize the importance of sandblasting in eliminating all the unwanted stuff on your metal surfaces. It removes all the contaminants, rust, and old peeling paint. This way, you can easily move forward to the next step of finishing your metal surface, which is powder coating.

2.   Ensures Easy Bonding Between Powder Coat and The Metal Surface

Prolonged use of a metal surface takes its toll; You might notice some scratches. Although they are not too obvious to the eye, they can hinder good powder coating adherence. Sandblasting is the ultimate solution as it removes the irregularities on the surface. That way, the bond between the powder coating and your metal surface is improved, which helps you achieve a smooth finish.

3.   Ensures Better Durability of The Coating

Another benefit of sandblasting is that it creates a clean porous surface. Therefore, powder coating after you sandblast will guarantee a more long-lasting than one applied directly to the metal surface. Sandblasting is also handy for surfaces exposed to harsh conditions, like fences. The strong powder coating adhering will ensure the metal surface looks good for a long.

4.   Cleans the Surface

Sandblasting is best known for its superior cleaning properties. You can use the technique to clean metal surfaces with contaminants like dirt, rust, oil, etc. All the contaminants are removed, leaving you with a smooth, clean, ready-for-powder coating.

5.   More Effective for Angles and Curves

Traditional methods of preparing a surface for powder coating, like hand-sanding, only work on fat surfaces. Sandblasting, however, will get even to the most corners and curves.

Also, most metal parts have undergone different forming processes and will have dimensions that entail curves and corners. Sandblasting removes the contaminants in these otherwise inaccessible areas. This will save you time, energy and provide you a perfect finish.

Alternative Methods of Preparing a Metal Surface for Powder Coating

Of course, there are other ways you can get rid of powder coating and other finishes like chemical strippers and burn-of. However, these methods may be risky or too complex.

Some powder coat strippers, for instance, can cause severe burns on contact; you must take excessive precautions while handling them and have irritating odors. Additionally, the high temperatures inside burn-of ovens might warp the metal surface and make it challenging to apply a fresh coating.

Take Away

Now you know why it's important to sandblast your metal surfaces before the powder coating process. You're protecting the metal from abrasive conditions making the coat more durable. If you skip sandblasting, you will not get the desired results; the coating will crack and peel in no time, and you might go back into your pockets to buy an additional powder coat. Sandblasting will save all the trouble and more. Ramseier Koatings is here to help with all your powder coating equipment needs.