Last Updated: September 12, 2018
Powder isn’t typically a strong or extremely protective substance. Think about powdered sugar, cosmetic powder, baby powder, or powdery snow. Not particularly sturdy, are they? It’s hard to imagine that a powder substance could adequately coat an aluminum railing – however, that’s the magic of powder coating. Aluminum powder-coated railing resists corrosion and stands up to harsh weather. It also won’t peel, flake, crack, or rust. If you’re looking for a new railing for your home or business, aluminum powder-coated railing is a great option for several reasons.
Aluminum Powder-Coated Railing
Understanding the Powder Application Process
Usually coating something in powder is an easy way to make a mess. It’s hard to imagine how powder could increase a product’s durability. However, the process used to coat aluminum railings in powder is far more involved than a simple dunking.
To kick off the powder-coating process, the manufacturer thoroughly cleans the aluminum. Then, the powder receives an electrostatic charge before it is sprayed onto the surface. After that, the railing moves into an oven, allowing the particles in the powder coating to melt and form a continuous, durable film. The full process is a bit more intricate:
The 11-Step Application Process
- First, the aluminum is carefully inspected for defects, damage, and white rust. If the product is satisfactory, it is placed on a moving conveyor belt, which will carry it through the following steps. Human hands will not touch the parts from this point forward.
- The product is cleaned with an alkaline cleaner in a spray wash system. This cleaning removes any fabrication and manufacturing impurities. After the initial cleaning, that spray wash system is used for the next five steps.
- The manufacturer cleans the fabricated parts with a city water rinse.
- Next, the manufacturer cleans the fabricated parts with a recalculating reverse osmosis water rinse.
- For the final cleaning step, the manufacturer cleans the fabricated parts with a fresh reverse osmosis rinse.
- Pre-treating takes place using a titanium and zirconium conversion coating. The coating contains a fluoride additive.
- The manufacturer rinses the fabricated parts once more with a fresh reverse osmosis water rinse.
- An air-knife, which creates a 200-mile-per-hour blast of air, removes all water particles. This is important because moisture can ruin the application process.
- A dry-off oven evaporates any leftover moisture.
- Finally, after those nine cleaning steps, the manufacturer applies the powder paint using 10 automatic guns. That ensures that there are no gaps in the powder coating. An electrostatic charge is then added to the powder particles, so that they’re highly attracted to the product.
- To finish up, the product moves into the curing oven. The heat gels, cross-links, and cures the powder, creating a lasting powder coating.
Benefits of Aluminum Powder-Coated Railing
Durability
Like we mentioned above, aluminum powder-coated railing is an extremely durable option for your home or business. The coating prevents corrosion and damage from the elements, which is particularly important if you live in an area with highly temperamental weather. Unlike paint, powder coating doesn’t flake or peel. It also blocks UV rays, which tend to speed up the rate of metal corrosion.
Eco-Friendly
Powder coating is actually a very eco-friendly process. Manufacturers typically waste very little water during the coating process. In fact, a large quantity of the used water often goes to a wastewater treatment facility. Plus, unlike liquid paint coatings, powder coating doesn’t emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Finally, powder coating is non-toxic, making it a safe bet if you have curious pets or kids.
Quality Control
When it comes to the quality of your railing, you can rest easy. The powder-coating process includes a series of quality-control checks. Those checks take place both during pretreatment and as the parts come off of the production line.
Selecting an Aluminum Powder-Coated Railing
We’ve established that powder-coated railings are a durable option, but how do you select a railing that’s right for you? With a variety of styles and colors to choose from, finding a railing to suit your home or business is a snap.
Styles
There are several factors to take into consideration when deciding on a style for your aluminum railing. First, evaluate the purpose of your railing. Are you looking for a stylish accent to your home or patio? Do you need a functional railing to make your business more accessible for differently-abled and elderly patrons? Maybe you’re planning to place your railing on a deck with a gorgeous view. Whether you’re seeking fashion or function – or a bit of both – there are a variety of aluminum powder-coated railing styles to choose from in our online store.
Colors
At MMC Fencing & Railing, we carry Westbury powder-coated aluminum railings in our online store. The Westbury railings are available in ten standard colors. These basic neutral shades complement a variety of structures, textures, and colors. However, custom colors are an option if you’re looking for something a bit bolder.
Quality
Selecting a quality aluminum powder-coated railing is key. When you’re scouting out your new railing, make sure to look for a supplier with a history of quality products and dedicated customer support. You’ll also want to make sure that your product comes with a quality warranty. Our Westbury aluminum railing products, for example, use an architectural-grade powder coating that comes with a lifetime limited warranty. This warranty will cover all of your major concerns, including cracking, peeling, flaking, and rusting. It also protects against unexpectedly quick fading.
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If you’re interested in purchasing an aluminum powder-coated railing, look no further than MMC Fencing & Railing. In our online store, you’ll find a variety of aluminum powder-coated railings, including the Tuscany, Riviera, Montego, and Veranda styles. Beautiful, classic, and virtually maintenance-free, these Westbury railing systems will add lasting value to your home or business. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 1-866-931-5002 or click here to request a quote. We look forward to hearing from you!