Correcting Flaws in Your Powder Coat Finish

So you pull your freshly powder coated piece out of the oven expecting to see that perfect, shiny finish you’ve always counted on. But instead you find something entirely different – a dull spot. Or worse, a cloudy finish. Now what? There are a couple of options you can try to correct most flaws that only become visible after the cure. Whether it’s a dry spot – a dull finish from where the powder either didn’t spray out or didn’t stay on – or another imperfection (like solvent that outgassed during baking, as on our bike frame), these can usually be fixed without starting all over. Hot flocking The most common way to address a minor surface imperfection is to “hot flock” it. This is best done when the flaw is found before it fully cures. The part can be taken from the oven or curing lamps and while it’s still warm, new powder applied to the hot work piece. This will allow the powder to flow out quickly, confirming you’ve reapplied the material adequately and also that you’ve blended it well with the previous application. Pop it back under the lights or into the oven to let it cure and chances are you’ll be good to go. Recoating Another option is to apply a whole new coat of powder on top of the already cured finish. Any physical flaws such as dirt or chemical damage can be sanded out before applying a second coat. You’ll want to make sure you prepare the damaged area appropriately, and clean the entire part thoroughly with a prep solvent to remove any contamination from handling it. You’ll also need to be sure you have a good contact point for the ground clip before applying a second coat of powder. It should go without saying, but you will want to take care not to repeat the same mistake the second time. If, for instance, you rushed the first application and didn’t let the prep solvent fully gas out, give it a little extra time to ensure it’s all out before the second application. Likewise, if the flaw was from a thin first application, double check your gun is flowing correctly and pay close attention during the spray out to be assured the second coat goes down smooth. At the end of the day, powder coating can be pretty forgiving. Take your time and you’ll get the finish you’re looking for.