Why should we sandblast before powder coating?

Representing over 15% of the industrial finishing market, powder coatings are a popular dry finishing process that many different industries take advantage of. However, in order for powder coatings to reach their peak longevity and potential, sandblast must be performed prior to the dry finish being applied. To further understand this process, let’s look at why sandblasting and powder coatings go hand in hand.

Why should we sandblast before powder coating?

As touched on above, sandblast is key to preparing the metal for a powder coating. Using sandblaster is the method that capable of removing heavy amounts of rust, corrosion, oxides, and oils that can be present on metal and not readily removed by other means. If a piece is coated without this preparation, cracking and bubbling can occur. This is due to the oils, oxides, and dust underneath that will prevent the coating from adhering properly during curing.

Sandblasting evenly smooths surfaces and helps to prevent cracking and moisture seepage once the coating has been applied and cured. This process is also best for pieces with curvatures and crevices that aren’t easily sanded by other means. Sandblasting is able to penetrate any region with ease, making it the most thorough process for cleaning and preparing metal surfaces.

Furthermore, sandblasting also has the benefit of making the surface more conducive to adhesion. This is due to the microscopic scrapes on the surface of the metal that allow coatings to penetrate and stick more readily. This creates a stronger bond that helps powder coatings reach their full longevity potential. This process is also one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to clean metals for both numerous and large projects.

The Conclusion

It doesn’t matter if your coating new or old metal, so long as you utilize sandblasting beforehand, you can achieve a long-lasting and durable coating. If you need a powder coating for your project, look for a company that uses sandblasting methods to ensure that you get the highest quality finish that will last you for years. Don’t settle for less than the best when it comes to professional finishes.