Powder Coating, Anodizing, Electrophoresis, How to Choose?

Recently, we received couples of enquires about the post finish selection. Some customers would like to make some custom metal parts and make them look pretty. They are entangled in how to select the suitable finish at low cost but high quality. Here, we want to share our experiences and opinions about these 3 finishes:

1. Powder Coating  

Powder coating is a type of coating that is applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. The main difference between a conventional liquid paint and a powder coating is that the powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. The coating is typically applied electrostatically and is then cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a "skin". The powder may be a thermoplastic or a thermoset polymer. It is usually used to create a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint. Powder coating is mainly used for coating of metals.

2. Anodizing

Anodizing (also spelled anodising, particularly in the UK and Australia) is an electrolytic passivation process used to increase the thickness of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts. Aluminum alloys are anodized to increase corrosion resistance and to allow dyeing (coloring), improved lubrication, or improved adhesion. Anodizing produces a very regular and uniform coating. Some aluminum aircraft parts, architectural materials, and consumer products are anodized. Anodized aluminum can be found on smart phone, multi-tools, flashlights, cookware, cameras, sporting goods, window frames, in electrolytic capacitors, and on many other products both for corrosion resistance and the ability to retain dye. Although anodizing only has moderate wear resistance, the deeper pores can better retain a lubricating film than a smooth surface would.

3. Electrophoresis

Electrophoresis is the motion of dispersed particles relative to a fluid under the influence of a spatially uniform electric field. The technique applies a negative charge so proteins move towards a positive charge. It is ultimately caused by the presence of a charged interface between the particle surface and the surrounding fluid.

TEAM Rapid offers customize metal part fabrication. We can make your parts at lower cost and better quality by our professional Prototyping China service and pressure die casting service. Furthermore, we provide the post finish service to meet your product needs. Are you working on your next rapid prototyping and pressure die casting project? Contact our team at sales@teamrapidtooling.com and get a free quote today.