Life hacks Archives

How do you maintain your powder coated metal parts or rims?

February 19, 2018 by pcnearme

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]

Simple care instructions after your rims and metal parts come back from powder coating.

Use these basic steps to care for your rims after they have been powder coated.

You’ve just picked up your parts from the powder coater and put your bike or car together for a sweet ride this weekend but forgot to ask this important question from your custom coater.

How do you maintain your powder coated metal?

There are several ways to protect your powder coated project especially from the elements over time.

First off, some info on the powders themselves. Powder coating powders come in all ratings and types like TGIC, polyurethanes, polyesters, and hybrids.

There are many colors and styles including smooth, textured, hammer-tone, metallic, translucent & illusion. Learn more on the different powder colors and their specific applications.

The care and maintenance of powder coating should be very little especially if it was done by quality custom coater.

However, if that leaves you feeling a little unsettled this list of safe cleaning products will make you feel better about the care and maintenance of your metal project.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”MPW Guide form mobile” _builder_version=”4.0.9″ global_module=”12668″ saved_tabs=”all”]
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″]How to care for metal rims after powder coating:

1. 1. 1. General Clean– use mild soap and water, preferably phosphate free.
    2. Deep Clean– use Simple Green or orange based cleaner that is diluted according to label instructions
    3. Protect Daily– use an emollient like WD-40 to protect it from grime or dirt build up in between cleanings
    4. Lasting Finish– use an automotive spray-on sealer for waterproofing

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”3.29.3″][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.4.2″]

Download the infographic for free

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″][embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpK4Siy2SNI&width=1080&height=810&iv_load_policy=3&rel=0[/embedyt][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”2020 blog wrap up” _builder_version=”4.5.1″ saved_tabs=”all” global_module=”18725″]RossKote is committed to sharing their experience in metal coatings, painting, and restoration so customers can navigate the process of powder coating and make the best choices for getting their projects done.

RossKote regularly contributes helpful videos on his blog and YouTube channel.

Join us. As we build a powder coating community online to share our passion for performance finishes by subscribing to RossKote’s Powder Coater Podcast

Connect with us. Comment below. What would you like to know more about? I love to answer everyday questions to the consumer market wants to know about powder coating.

MAUIPOWDERWORKS.COM
Copyright 2016-2020©
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

About Maui Powder Works

February 17, 2018 by pcnearme

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22.3″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.5.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ z_index_tablet=”500″]

From Maui Boat Captain to Powder Coating Innovator

Ross Scott set out to solve the seemingly endless process of metal degradation not only on the boats he sailed but for every man’s daily challenges. He’s bringing new finishes to the powder coating industry and new opportunities to Hawaii businesses and residents.

In Hawaii, everything around us is subject to rapid degradation because of climate extremes like UV sunlight and salt air. Nobody knows this better than Ross Scott, the owner of Maui Powder Works who has been in the restoration business his whole life.

How it all started

The restoration process was an endless challenge as Scott transitioned from a master of the sea to a master of powder paint. Liquid paints have slow dry times, are subject to surface rejection, and require endless primer coats. “I was frustrated with painting liquid paint on metal” he shared, “I knew there had to be a better way.”

In 2004, he started researching solutions. “Ever the ‘do it yourself-er’ I was seeking a new way to achieve that perfect metal finish, that’s when I found out about powder coating,” explains Scott.

Powder coating was mainly known as a commercial service and often reserved for large industrial projects. Large ovens meant small projects had big costs and long wait times. Scott saw an opportunity. He built Maui’s first powder coating shop specifically designed to serve customers at all levels with unique oven configurations and multiple oven sizes.

As a Maui resident for nearly 40 years, it means a lot to Scott to work with his local community. Collaborations with top welders and contractors in Hawaii has given this local company a chance to play a role in big public projects.

Chances are you’ve been to some of these spaces like the Whaler’s Village in Kaanapali, The International Market Place in Waikiki and the Kapa Bar & Grill in Wailea. Scott shares, “When you see your work in a public space, it brings a sense of pride and contribution to the community.”

What sets them apart

What really sets Maui Powder Works apart is their innovative finishes. Scott brings decades of restoration experience with faux finishes to the powder coating industry. This empowers Maui Powder Works to offer never before seen powder applications like anodized bronze and patinas perfect for gates and railings.

“I built this company from the ground up so that I can provide my customers the quality finishes that I wanted for myself.” Scott disclosed.

Since 2010, Maui Powder Works has been a thriving sandblasting and powder coating business with a home base in Maui and serving all islands.

More on this Green Business

Their projects range from everyday projects like custom rims and railings to large-scale commercial projects like the trellised lower level shopping area at Whaler’s Village. Some of their clients include local businesses like Air Maui, Atlantis Submarines, CheeseBurger in Paradise, Padilla Designs and Pitzer Construction.

The company sponsors Maui Raceway Park and will soon partner with local schools to offer educational opportunities for students.

One of the newest members of the Maui Powder Works crew is Ravin AhPuck, a 2015 Lahainaluna graduate.

“Joining the team at Maui Powder Works was a full hands-on experience. When I get to do custom colors and it turns something from an eyesore into a work of art, I’m amazed. Each piece we powder coat gives it a totally new life!” AhPuck commented.

What’s next

What’s next for this fast-growing company? We’re going to offer a series of video tutorials so that other custom applicators can learn these techniques to expand their skill set and scale their business.

“By sharing our coater effects and our story we can inspire others to build on their success”, said Scott.

More on Maui Powder Works

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”MPW Blog Form Mobile” _builder_version=”3.29.3″ global_module=”12659″ saved_tabs=”all”]
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”2020 blog wrap up” _builder_version=”4.5.1″ global_module=”18725″ saved_tabs=”all”]RossKote is committed to sharing their experience in metal coatings, painting, and restoration so customers can navigate the process of powder coating and make the best choices for getting their projects done.

RossKote regularly contributes helpful videos on his blog and YouTube channel.

Join us. As we build a powder coating community online to share our passion for performance finishes by subscribing to RossKote’s Powder Coater Podcast

Can you powder coat over powder coat?

November 14, 2017 by pcnearme

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22.3″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” z_index_tablet=”500″]

When powder coating over existing powder coat

Hands down, one of the most frequently asked questions in this business on how powder coating works.

Yes! Typically if the coating is newer and recently powder coated. However, there are some variables that could play into whether you should coat over it or not.

Here are the top four things to consider when powder coating over powder coat.

Ask yourself

Is the current coating sound and without flaws? If the coated metal project has imperfections i.e. bubbling from outgassing, fish-eyeing or spots where the coating has resisted, recoating may not be the first solution.
Was it cured properly the first time? If the original coating hasn’t cured properly the first time recoating will not be the solution this time.
Is there existing rust or corrosion from exposure already? As expected re-coating would not be the solution here because powder coating does not stop the process of decay.
Is it a painted finish instead of being powder coated? Believe it or not, many customers bring in projects they assume to be powder coated when in fact they are painted. We find this especially in the outdoor furniture and fixture market because many of those products come from China and have the appearance of being powder coated when in fact they are not.

Determining these important features to your metal project is best left to the experts.

Something as easy as a color change or color match may not be so simple. It may, in fact, require a full restoration process.

Find out more about how long does it take to powder coat your rims about how to prep rims for powder coating and what products to use when degreasing rims before powder coating.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″][embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tiLALB3qZh0&width=1080&height=810&iv_load_policy=3&rel=0[/embedyt][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”MPW Blog Form Mobile” _builder_version=”3.29.3″ global_module=”12659″ saved_tabs=”all”]
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”3.29.3″][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″]

How long does it take to powder coat wheels?

November 14, 2017 by pcnearme

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22.3″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.29.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]

Customizing rims with powder coating

It’s an inexpensive way to get your car to look good. But how long does it take?

The short answer to the question is it can take about 1-2 hours per rim, from sandblasting and prep to coating and curing.

The long answer is it may take longer if you don’t have an appointment or you need additional services like two-tone color, clears and candy translucent coats.

Preparing your wheels ahead of time is also vitally important if you’re needing a quick turn around time. See our blog post on the following topics for info on prepping rims and the best way to de-grease before bringing them in.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″][embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4a1_KUqx1w&width=1080&height=810&iv_load_policy=3&rel=0[/embedyt][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″]Although most coaters carry many colors in-stock, you may be looking for that perfect match and that may require a special order. Look for a coater who serves wheel and rim customers best. Typically, they have smaller ovens and can get your project done faster. That way you may not have to wait for your project to get done with someone else’s or batched with other jobs.See my post on dry times or oven curing for powder coating.

Find out what the top color trends are in rim powder coating

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”MPW Guide form mobile” _builder_version=”4.0.9″ global_module=”12668″ saved_tabs=”all”]
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”2020 blog wrap up” _builder_version=”4.5.1″ saved_tabs=”all” global_module=”18725″]RossKote is committed to sharing their experience in metal coatings, painting, and restoration so customers can navigate the process of powder coating and make the best choices for getting their projects done.

RossKote regularly contributes helpful videos on his blog and YouTube channel.

Join us. As we build a powder coating community online to share our passion for performance finishes by subscribing to RossKote’s Powder Coater Podcast

The process of powder coating

September 25, 2017 by pcnearme

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″ z_index_tablet=”500″]

How powder coating works

The basic process of powder coating is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to powder coating and protecting metal.

1.Blast It – Sandblasting is the best way to prep a metal surface in need of restoration. It removes dirt, grime, rust, corrosion. It also removes existing painted or powder coated finishes. All types of metal can be blasted such as alloys, aluminum, steel, iron, etc. Sometimes coaters will use a chemical strip process prior to abrasive blasting to keep the blast time down to a minimum. If you have a new metal project you can sometimes by-pass this step. Your powder coater will be able to make this determination. The point of blasting is to remove any mil-scale rust and rough up the surface prior to coating.

2.Prep It – Prepping consists of applying a metal prep chemical solution to neutralize surface impurities, cleaning off any lingering debris and prevent rust and corrosion. Depending on the type of metal there are several kinds of solutions your powder coater can use to enhance the surface before coating. If this is a concern for you make sure to ask your powder coater about what they will be using; this is a step that should not be missed.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”MPW Blog Form Mobile” _builder_version=”3.29.3″ global_module=”12659″ saved_tabs=”all”]
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″][embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2jSRY9roO8&width=1080&height=810&iv_load_policy=3&rel=0[/embedyt][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”3.29.3″][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″]

Click Thumbnail

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.29.3″]3.Powder It – When fully prepped and dry your metal project will be ready for powder coating. The coating itself is done through an electrolysis process, whereby, the metal object is positively charged in order for the powder to be attracted to it and bond well during the next stage. There are many colors and brands of powder to choose from depending on the needs of the customer and the end use of the project. There are outdoor rated and interior only rated colors and powders. Some powders require clear coats which could add to an increase in costs. Here’s more on powder types with this post. Be sure to ask your coater which is best for your project.

4.Cure It – The cure times for metal can range depending on how long it takes the oven to get to temp and the size of the oven. Typically degrees ranging from 250(low cure) to 400 are required for the powder to heat up enough to bond. Once the right temp is achieved it takes 15-30 minutes for your metal part to achieve this state. A coater’s oven should evenly displace the heat so that your part is heated throughout for the curing process to be done correctly. If you’re specifically looking for more info on powder coating rims click on here.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.29.3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”2020 blog wrap up” _builder_version=”4.5.1″ saved_tabs=”all” global_module=”18725″]RossKote is committed to sharing their experience in metal coatings, painting, and restoration so customers can navigate the process of powder coating and make the best choices for getting their projects done.

RossKote regularly contributes helpful videos on his blog and YouTube channel.

Join us. As we build a powder coating community online to share our passion for performance finishes by subscribing to RossKote’s Powder Coater Podcast

Can you powder coat over bondo?

July 19, 2017 by pcnearme

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ z_index_tablet=”500″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

Filler applications can be tricky with powder coating.

It is not recommended to powder coat over Bondo or similar type putty products. Powder Coating over Bondo will cause outgassing to occur, this will create irregularities in the finish. Generally, any metal fabrication that has Bondo on it could be rejected by your custom coater. Generally, any metal fabrication that has Bondo on it should be disclosed. It could be rejected by your custom coater. If a filler is needed and there are no other options, then we recommend a high temp filler such as Alvin’s Lab Metal.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”MPW Guide form mobile” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ global_module=”12668″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_2,1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”2022 blog wrap up” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ global_module=”18725″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]

About us

RossKote is committed to sharing their experience in metal coatings, painting, and restoration so customers & powder coaters can navigate the process of powder coating and make the best choices for getting their projects done.

RossKote regularly contributes helpful videos on his blog and YouTube channel.

Join us. As we build a powder coating community online to share our passion for performance finishes by subscribing to RossKote’s Powder Coater Podcast

Connect with us. Comment below. What would you like to know more about? I love to answer everyday questions to the consumer market wants to know about powder coating.

MAUIPOWDERWORKS.COM
Copyright 2016-2022©
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

Learn more about the powder coating process.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

Find out how much it will cost to get your rims powder coated.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]