Retro Reflective Black Powder Coating

Surface Finish Options Overview

RETRO REFLECTIVE BLACK

Highlights: Retro Reflective line of powder coating is a proprietary and patent-pending breakthrough technology designed to reflect light back to its source. This innovative single layer solution combines the safety benefits of retroreflectivity with the strength, durability and sustainability of powder coating. Available in a wide range of custom colors, APP Retro Reflective is formulated to create a smooth, impact and mar resistant surface capable of withstanding harsh exterior environments.Tip: For more reflectivity, apply this coating thinner. A thinner MIL thickness/film build will make the final color a little more gray with less black, however you will also have more reflective properties. A standard MIL thickness between 2.0 - 3.0 MIL will have a blacker final color with a little less reflectivity compared to a coating with a MIL thickness between 1.0 - 2.0 MIL.

Product Features:- Embedded glass beads provide retroreflective properties. - Reflects light to aid in nighttime visibility.- Available in a wide range of colors.- Exterior durability.- Excellent chemical resistance.- Excellent mar and scratch resistance.- Patent pending technology.PolyesterGloss: 13 - 20% @ 60°Appearance: SmoothDurability: Ultra-durableExterior/Interior (UV Protection)Exterior Durability: ExcellentChemical Resistance: GoodSpecific Gravity: 1.76 ± .05Salt Spray: 1000 hours pass (ASTM B-117)Humidity Resistance: 1000 hours pass (ASTM D-1735)Theoretical Coverage: 109 Sq. Ft. per pound at 1.0 milRecommended Bake: 15 Minutes @ 390° Part Metal Temperature (PMT)Typical Application: Decorative & Functional finishes, handrails, safety, DOT, automotive, etc.

FAQ

1. What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is a dry finishing process used to apply a protective and decorative coating on metal or other surfaces. Instead of using liquid paint, fine powder particles (usually made of polyester, epoxy, or hybrid resins) are electrostatically charged and sprayed onto a conductive surface. The coated object is then baked in an oven, where the powder melts, flows, and cures into a smooth, durable finish.

Key features:

Durable, hard finish

Resistant to scratches, corrosion, and UV

Environmentally friendly (no VOCs)

2. Benefits of Powder Coating

Powder coating offers several advantages over traditional liquid painting:

Durability: Resistant to chipping, scratching, fading, and wear.

Corrosion Protection: Provides excellent protection against rust and chemicals.

Environmentally Friendly: No volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and minimal waste.

Efficiency: Overspray can be collected and reused, up to 99% material utilization.

Uniform Finish: Smooth, even coating without runs or drips.

Cost-Effective: Single-coat systems can achieve high film thickness, reducing labor and energy.

Aesthetic Variety: Wide range of colors, textures, and effects.

3. What Temperature to Cure Powder Coating

The curing temperature depends on the type of powder used:

Epoxy powder: ~160–200°C (320–392°F)

Polyester powder: ~180–210°C (356–410°F)

Hybrid (Epoxy-Polyester) powder: ~180–200°C (356–392°F)

Typical curing time: 10–20 minutes depending on thickness and oven type.

Always follow the powder manufacturer’s specifications for best results.

4. Process for Powder Coating

The powder coating process usually follows these steps:

Surface Preparation:

Clean the surface thoroughly (remove oil, grease, rust, or dirt)

Methods: chemical cleaning, sandblasting, or phosphating

Pre-Treatment:

Apply a conversion coating or primer if needed to improve adhesion

Powder Application:

Spray the powder using an electrostatic spray gun or fluidized bed

Curing:

Bake the coated object in an oven at the recommended temperature for the powder type

The powder melts and forms a continuous, smooth film

Cooling & Inspection:

Let the coated item cool

Inspect for defects, uniform coverage, and desired thickness

5. How to Spray Powder Coat

Equipment Needed:

Electrostatic spray gun

Compressed air supply

Powder feed hopper or container

Grounding of the object

Steps:

Ground the object: Ensures the charged powder is attracted to the surface.

Spray evenly: Hold the gun 6–12 inches from the surface, moving in smooth, overlapping strokes.

Apply sufficient powder: Ensure full coverage without excessive buildup.

Cure immediately: Transfer the sprayed item to the curing oven to fuse the powder into a solid coating.

Tips:

Maintain consistent speed and distance while spraying.

Use proper ventilation to reduce airborne powder accumulation.

Test a small area to check film thickness and color before full application.