Powder coatings are in high demand due to their scratch resistance, extreme durability, color flexibility, and attractive finished appearance. They are environmentally friendly and even turn out to be more cost effective than paint coatings.
With each of these positive qualities, powder coated tubing has become extremely popular for a huge number of consumer applications, such as:
- Lawn and garden products
- Appliances
- Bed frames
- Automotive components
- Bicycle components
- Furniture
- Boats
- Many other general industrial purposes
The first factor in ensuring a long and rust-free life for powder coated tubing used in any application is to make sure it was applied correctly in the first place.
If the powder coated tube is produced carefully, the end user can expect a sturdy finish that will last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, the tubing will continue to perform at a high level, but sloppy habits could mean that the tubing will rust, peel, or crack.
Here are some how-to suggestions for keeping powder coated tubes rustproof:
Maintaining a Powder Coated Tube
The metal fabrication company needs to follow strict procedures to maintain a rust-free environment when preparing the tubing for the coating process, applying the coating to the underlying material, and allowing for proper drying time.
Even the strongest product will begin to erode if exposed to outdoor elements for too long. Factors that can cause life-shortening damage to a protective coating include:
- Heat
- Cold
- Wind
- Rain
- Salt
- Snow
- Pollution
Minimize exposure whenever practical, dry the tubing as soon as possible after use, and store in a protected environment to minimize rust exposure. Inspect the coating on a regular basis to look for small areas of wear and tear.
If the coating needs replaced, make sure to completely remove all the old coating and properly prepare the underlying material for the new application.
Protecting Powder Coated Tubing
If you abruptly hit something hard enough or long enough, chances are that it is going to crack or chip. These small nicks can lead to big problems.
Only use the tubing for the purpose for which it was intended, and shield it from other materials during storage. If the tubing will be handled extensively, a light coat of non-abrasive wax may provide a degree of protection.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals
Exposure to harsh chemicals can eat away at the powder coating. Once the coating starts to peel, the underlying material is exposed to the elements and moisture begins to work its way in, eventually leading to rust.
Avoid certain chemicals when using or cleaning the tubing, including:
- Methanol
- Gasoline
- Chlorine
Ensuring a Rust-Free Life
Powder coated tubing is widely used in many industries for a reason. Regardless of whether the powder coated tube is used in an industrial or consumer environment, proper care and maintenance can be the key to many years of rust-free use.
To ensure you are getting the most out of your powder coated tubing, rust prevention should be a priority. You can also discuss with your manufacturer if moving to a more corrosion-proof metal grade makes sense too.
