Polyester powder coatings for indoor applications with antimicrobial technology MT-310 AM

Surface Finish Options Overview

Product description

MT-310 is a series of polyester resin based thermo-setting powder coatings, without TGIC with specific antimicrobial activity. The MT-310 resin system is warning label free. The pigments used in the MT-310 series restrict the field of application of this powder coatings class to interior uses. MT-310 AM is a high-quality powder coating designed to meet decorative and functional demands. Additionally, MT-310 AM uses antimicrobial technology to reduce the number of microbes such as bacteria and mold. Test results have proven a reduction of bacteria and mold up to 99.9%.

Powder properties

Pre-treatment

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. Iron phosphate and particularly Zinc phosphating of ferrous metals improves corrosion resistance. Aluminium substrates may require a chromate conversion coating.

Application

Powders can be applied by manual or automatic electrostatic spray equipment. A good protection is linked with the recommended film thickness. 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.

Test conditions

Actual product performance will depend upon the circumstances under which the product is used. Testing has been determined under laboratory conditions using the following application properties and is for guidance only.

Mechanical 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.