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Powder coating begins with a thorough cleaning of the surface to be treated. Oils and greases are removed with a weakly alkaline or neutral detergent solution. Heavy oxides are removed by etching, and the furniture piece is rinsed, then sprayed with a conversion coating of chromate or phosphate solution. The conversion coating is chemically attracted to the aluminum and aids the powder coating to adhere more easily. Finally, the furniture piece is rinsed with demineralized water and dried. The metal is then sprayed with thermoplastic powder, a heat sensitive plastic polymer, using an electrostatically charged spray gun. The spray gun imparts a positive charge to the powder, which is then attracted to the grounded cast aluminum furniture piece. The cast aluminum piece is then heated in an oven to about 200 degrees, which causes the powder coating to melt and flow around the metal frame to form a skin over the furniture piece. As the thermoplastic powder cures during the heating process, it undergoes a chemical reaction called cross-linking that forms a powder coating that is abrasion resistant, thinner, more even and more durable than conventional paint.
The powder coating process produces a very thin film that is far smoother and more uniform than liquid paint. Depending on the type of powder used, the finish will vary from a high gloss to flat matte. The color is introduced during the thermoplastic powder manufacturing process. Color possibilities are virtually unlimited depending upon the manufacturer of the powder.
Visit the Cast Aluminum Furniture page on this website to see examples of powder coated cast aluminum patio furniture. Our goal is to provide you with the best selection of cast aluminum patio furniture at the best price possible.
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