Polyester resin based thermo-setting powder coatings MT-300 AM

Surface Finish Options Overview

Product Description

MT-300 AM is a series of polyester resin based thermo-setting powder coatings formulated using TGIC. The pigments used in the MT-300 series restrict the field of application of this powder coatings class to interior uses. MT-300 is designed for interior decoration such as, metal furniture, shop fittings, shelves, light fittings. MT-300 AM is a high-quality powder coating designed to meet decorative and functional demands of your specifications. Test results have proven reduction of bacteria and mold up to 99.9%.

Powder Properties

Mechanical Tests

Pre-treatment

Aluminium, steel or Zintec surfaces to be coated must be clean and free from grease. Iron phosphate and particularly lightweight zinc phosphating of ferrous metals improves corrosion resistance. Aluminium substrates may require a chromate conversion coating, chrome free pre-treatment or flash anodizing for certain applications. Galvanised steel may require zinc or chromate conversion or sweep blasting. Detailed advice should be sought from the pre-treatment supplier.

Application

MT-300 powder coatings can be applied by corona electrostatic or tribostatic equipment. However the aspect obtained by tribo-static equipment may vary when compared to electrostatic application and/or our colour card. In all application processes the aspect obtained is subject to variation, depending on the method of application (type of gun, nozzle, etc) and the shape/type of component. We recommend that the actual application parameters are adapted and adjusted depending on the type of component and with each powder batch in order to give a finish in accordance with our colour card. The following procedure is given as a guideline when using these finishes. We recommend the use of flat jet spray nozzles. To ensure powder homogeneity, the complete content of the boxes should be emptied completely into the feed hopper. For manual application it is essential to ensure that an even film thickness is applied and in all Instances sinusoidal gun movements should be avoided.

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.