How to Choose a Powder Coating Colour
If you want to powder coat some of your products, then you have to choose which colour of coating to use. This is sometimes an easy choice. For example, you might be looking to match a specific colour that ties in with your product line or branding. Or, you might want to match an existing part's colour for consistency. You can use a standard palette colour here or have one custom made.
However, you might not have fixed colour ideas at this stage. In this case, it's worth thinking about how the colour you choose might affect your products. What do you need to know?
Do You Have Temperature Concerns?
In general terms, you should consider the different effects between light and dark powder coat colours. The ambient temperature around a powder-coated part and in the part itself can affect how well the coating performs. For example, dark-coloured powder coatings usually absorb more heat than light-coloured ones. They will heat up more quickly and retain their heat. On the other hand, lighter colours tend to deflect heat away from a surface. This keeps the surface cooler.
So, if you powder coat a pipe that sits in a sunny and hot spot, then the pipe will get hot if you use a dark colour. If this would be a problem, say if the pipe would pass unwanted heat on to the liquid it carries, then you should choose a lighter shade. This will help keep the pipe cooler.
Are You Coating Outdoor Products?
Powder coatings are sometimes affected by the sun's rays. So, if you're coating outdoor products or parts, then you should factor this into your colour planning. For example, the sun's UV rays can fade a coated colour over time. While you can add UV absorbers and light stabilisers to prevent some of this damage, your product colours might still change if they are subjected to intense heat regularly.
So, if you use a dark-coloured coating, then it might lighten as it ages. A strong primary colour might eventually look washed-out and faded. This can be a particular problem with very bright colours whose pigments are more likely to get damaged in the sun. In some cases, you might not be concerned about colour loss. If you are, then it's worth looking for colours that won't change as much in the sun. Muted and lighter tones often work well here.
For more advice on colour choice, talk to a powder coating company.
