Nick’s Niche: Liquid to powder conversion: How much of your existing equipment can you use?
There has been much discussion on this topic over the years. I’m sure I’ve written something on this in the past, as well. However, it never hurts to take a fresh look at this important discussion, as many people still have to reconcile how to convert to powder coatings in the most economical way. This goal often requires using as much of the existing finishing equipment as possible to minimize the capital investment. Replacement of the entire finishing process, which has its own set of issues, is not what’s discussed here. Instead, the article organizes the evaluation of an existing liquid paint process conversion to powder coating in easy-to-swallow bites.
Starting with an honest and open discussion of what you expect to achieve with your conversion to powder coating is the first agenda item. All other discussions and equipment evaluations originate from this starting point, and solutions need to be measured to these objectives to ensure a successful conversion project. There may be some reasons for conversion that are more specific to your situation, but the following reasons are the most universal that I’ve seen over the years. I’ve included definitions and discussions that correspond with these conversion goals while trying to use most all of your existing system components.