Powder Coating Wheels

Powder coating is fast replacing conventional painting, as a surface finishing technique. It is a considerably newer technique considering it was first used in Australia in 1967. Since then, it has rapidly gained popularity amongst surface finishers. It is used in various fields from industries to kitchen to automobiles. Powder coating has several advantages over the traditional painting technique. Powder coating wheels instead of painting them seems to be the new trend that is catching amongst automobile owners.

Powder Coating Wheels

Powder coating is a technique in which dried powder is applied over a surface which is then heat treated. The result is such that, you get a uniform layer of powder on the surface which resists scratches, cracks, peels and rust. In this process, electrically charged particles of a powder are sprayed on any surface which has been grounded. As a result, the electrically charged particles cling to the surface forming a layer on it. The grounded item (a wheel rim in this case) is then placed in an oven to cure. There, the particles fuse together forming a perfect and uniform layer on the surface. The overall appearance is somewhat similar to a 2-layer wet paint finish.

Powder coating aluminum wheels has several advantages over painting them. As powder coating offers better protection against rust, scratch and cracks and peels, you need not bother about your vehicle's appearance for a very long time. Besides, powder coating is an entirely eco-friendly way of restoring the beauty of your vehicle. Additionally, powder coating does not allow any waste of powder, as it can be reused if any spillage occurs due to over spraying of powder.

The powder used in powder coating is basically of two types, thermoplastic and thermosetting. Thermoplastic refers to the powder which can be remelted again, while thermosetting cannot be remelted again. Similarly, there are various types of equipment that are used in powder coating of wheels. Tribo charging guns and corona charging guns are often used for electrostatic powder coating. Fluidized bed is another equipment of powder coating. In this method, a pre-heated rim is suspended in a container full of electrically charged powder.

How to Powder Coat Wheels

If you are an avid do-it-yourself enthusiast, then you can sure consider powder coating your wheels on your own. However, make sure you have all the right powder coating equipment at hand. For powder coating your wheels, you will need a supply of powder, any of the above mentioned spray guns, washcloth, gasoline, etc. Your first job is to remove the rubber tire from the wheel. Then, clean the aluminum rim thoroughly. Dip a wash cloth in gasoline and gently scrub dirt and oil off the rim. Let the gasoline evaporate completely before you take up your powder coating job. You can place it on a hanging rack to dry up. Next, load your spray gun with a powder of your choice. Start spraying sideways, without overworking a single area. Do not overspray the powder in a single coat itself. After the first coat has dried properly, spray the next coat of powder. The powder takes about 24 hours to completely cure on the surface.

You can ask a professional surface finisher to powder coat your wheels, if cost is not a problem for you. Professionals often charge you about $75 - $90 per rim. The price is mainly dependent upon the make of your vehicle and the shop where you approach for the service.