Optimal Part Preparation for Liquid Paint and Powder Coating

The success of any paint or powder coating application largely depends on the quality of part preparation. In order to ensure a flawless finish and long-lasting protection, meticulous attention to detail is required during the part preparation process. There are three crucial techniques for preparing parts: sanding, mechanical blasting, and chemical washing. Let’s explore how these techniques impact your coating applications and how to ensure consistent and superior results. 

Sanding
Sanding is a fundamental step in part preparation, as it helps to create a smooth and even surface for coating. Before beginning the sanding process, it is essential to assess the type of material being worked on and choose the appropriate grit size for optimal results. Begin with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove any existing coatings, rust, or imperfections. Then move to finer grits to achieve a smoother surface. Make sure to check corners, edges, and intricate details to ensure uniformity.

Mechanical Blasting
Often known as abrasive blasting, mechanical blasting involves using abrasive materials propelled at high speeds to clean and prepare surfaces. Mechanical blasting is highly effective in removing rust, scale, old paint, and other contaminants. Choose the appropriate abrasive material based on the substrate material and desired finish. Make sure to adjust blasting pressure and distance to achieve the desired surface profile without causing damage. It’s important to regularly inspect and replace nozzles and abrasive media to maintain consistent results.

Chemical Washing
Chemical washing is a valuable technique for removing stubborn contaminants and preparing parts for coating. Various chemical solutions are available, each designed to address specific issues such as grease, oil, or rust. Select the appropriate chemical cleaner based on the type of contamination and material. Proper ventilation is required to ensure safety when working with chemical solutions. Ensure surfaces are thoroughly rinsed and neutralized after chemical washing to prevent any residue from affecting the coating.

Part preparation is a critical step in achieving high-quality liquid paint and powder coating finishes. Rohner provides solutions for part preparation to ensure consistent and durable coatings. Our custom sanding and grinding booths, manual wash enclosures, dust collectors, and media blast booths can help you prepare surfaces and components to ensure longevity and performance. Talk to our team about your part preparation requirements and we can create solutions for your operations. 

Have questions? Please contact the Rohner team: info@rohner-usa.com