Standard durable polyester powder coatings

Surface Finish Options Overview

Product description

MT-D1036 Gloss is a range of powder coatings intended for use on architectural aluminium and galvanized steel. MT-D1036 Gloss has been specifically formulated without the use of TGIC. As part of the MT-D1036 series of architectural powders, MT-D1036 Gloss gives excellent exterior durability and colour retention and conforms to the requirements of all the major European architectural finishing standards. All MT-D1036 Gloss powders are lead-free and meet the requirements of GSB Florida 1. Qualicoat Class 1. EN12206. and EN13438 (formerly BS6496 &BS6497), and AAMA 2603.

Powder properties

Pre-treatment

For maximum protection it is essential to pretreat components prior to the application of the powdercoating. Aluminium components should receive a full multi-stage chromate conversion coating or suitable chrome-free pre-treatment or suitable pre-anodising to clean and condition the substrate. Detailed advice should be sought from the pre-treatment supplier. Galvanised steel requires surface preparation by either multi-stage pretreatment using either zinc phosphate or chromate conversion or controlled sweep blasting. Depending on the type of galvanizing, degassing or use of anti-bubbling additives may be required – follow the procedural advice of the pretreatment supplier. The products may also be used on cast or mild steel. For outdoor use MT-PZ anti-corrosive primer over a correctly prepared substrate is recommended.

Application

Powders can be applied by manual or automatic electrostatic spray equipment. This product should be applied at minimum 60μm. All powders can show small color differences from batch to batch, this is normal and unavoidable. Bonded products have better application properties than blended products (more stable) but attention should still be paid to line settings in order to avoid “marble effect” and changes in aspect after recycling.

Products with different codes should not be mixed even if same colour and gloss. Different substrates (aluminium, steel, galvanized steel…), use of primer, and big changes in film thickness may give a different aspect. Applicators and fabricators are advised to use a single batch for parts that will be assembled together. Differences are more likely with special effect powders. For more information, it is suggested to read the Metallic Applications Guidelines. Clearcoats including tinted clearcoats cannot be applied directly on primers. Only fully opaque shades are suitable for application over primer.

Post application

For specific advice on the suitability of post coating processes such as bending or the use of sealants, adhesives, thermal break, cleaning etc. Please consult us.

Test conditions

The results are based on mechanical and chemical tests which (unless otherwise indicated) have been carried out under laboratory conditions and are given for guidance only Testing has been determined under laboratory conditions using the following application properties and is for guidance only.

Mechanical tests

Chemical and durability tests

Environmental and durability tests

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.