The first component in a powder coat system is the powder-application apparatus. The most common method used to apply powder to components is the use of a powder coating gun, which electrostatically charges powder particles and applies them in a layer to the surface of the component being painted. A corona gun is a powder coating gun which uses electric power, internally or externally, to electrostatically charge the particles. A tribo gun uses a different type of paint powder and charges the paint particles with an internal friction system rather than an electric current.
Another method of powder application is the fluidized bed, commonly used as part of an assembly line. A fluidized bed works by using a controlled airstream to suspend the powder particles in air. While suspended, the powder behaves like a fluid. Components are then heated or electrostatically charged then dipped into the bed, causing a layer of particles to adhere to the component.
A more recent technology, the electromagnetic brush (or EMB) method is used to apply a powder coat to a flat surface. This method uses a rubber roller and a powder-feed mechanism to apply electrostatically charged powder in an even coat along a large flat area. This allows for quick application of powder to components and is well-suited to use in an assembly line.
After the application of powder, the next step in the process is curing the paint; this is done in a powder coating oven. The paint is heated to at least 400 degrees and allowed to flow for two to10 minutes, depending on the powder used. Powder coating ovens can be convection or infrared and typically contain an apparatus for creating ultraviolet light, which is used after heating to help cure the finish.