The Electrostatic Process

At Applied Plastics, our skilled technicians understand the art and science of selecting, custom formulating, and applying functional finishes. We apply coatings to solve problems or achieve a specific high gloss, matte, textured, or wrinkled finish. The electrostatic powder spraying process is especially effective for applications where an item must have a protective coating with an outstanding appearance.

Electrostatic powder spraying involves the deposition of powders to either a cold or preheated substrate using a spray gun or an electrostatic fluidized bed. As the air-driven powder passes through the gun head, it receives a positive electrical charge. The positively charged powder is then attracted to the negatively charged or grounded item which is being coated. This electrical attraction holds the powder in place during transport to the oven and through the complete bake cycle.

Applied Plastics electrostatically spray coats items ranging from needles to tool handles, machine housings to chemical valves, and large castings weighing up to 4,000 lbs. After spraying, they are cured in an oven at temperatures from 200°F to 800°F, for varying durations, depending upon the item and coating. We can effectively coat individual pieces, short runs, or high-quantity production runs.

Key Features

• Selectable finish
• Uniform appearance
• Abrasion resistant
• Chemical resistant
• Corrosion resistant
• Mechanically strong
• Electrical insulation
• Anti-stick coatings are available
• Thin and thick films are available

Durable, Attractive Finish

Once baked, or cured, the powder coatings transform into a uniform coating that resists abrasion, chemical attack, corrosion, and mechanical damage. In addition, the cured coating is flexible, allowing for normal expansion and contraction of a metal substrate. As a result, tubing and sheet metal may be formed after coating without the protective coating being ruptured. Electrostatically sprayed “functional” powder coatings are available in nylon, polyester, epoxy, DuPont Teflon™, and other polymers, depending upon the nature of the material being coated and the desired surface properties. Many powders are FDA and USDA approved.