Nick's Niche: Is powder coating living up to its reputation?
When I first entered the powder coating industry in 1980, very few people even heard of the technology, including me. I’m sure this was true with many people who started with this finishing technology back then, as it was only first introduced to the USA in electrostatic spray form in 1969. In my case, I was applying for a project manager’s position with a company that happened to produce powder application and recovery equipment. I didn’t care about the technology, necessarily, just the job I was being offered and how this position would fit into my engineering career path.
Oh sure, I was pleased to hear that this method of “spray painting” products was environmentally friendly, economical to use, provided an excellent finish, and used less energy in the process. Back then, we called this the “four Es” of powder coating. There was a “fifth E” for a while, but I don’t remember what it was. That’s the problem with being middle-aged, your memory just isn’t the same as it once was.