powdercoating questions

[born2drv]

Does anyone know if I powdercoat something white... and leave it outside, if it will tarnish? I'm in southern california so it hardly ever rains, just mostly really hot sun.

If it gets dirty, can you just wipe it clean? I'm asking because I'm going to have a friend make me a sign that will be laser cut out of hot-rolled 1/8" thick metal, and then have these letters powdercoated white (matte) and hung up in front of a business.

Just curious how durable this powdercoating will be and how easy to clean, etc.

If there's a cheaper way to paint it white and have a durable finish for outside that is easy to clean, please let me know

Thanks,
Yosef

 

[swaq]

The finish is supposed to be tougher than conventional paint, I'm not sure what that means as far as leaving it in the sun though.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Powdercoating

 

[Ckanderson]

Never had a problem with powdercoating in the sun. you can wax it though if you want extra protection

 

[Clip]

if its aluminum, go for anodizing. itll hold up longer than most anything.

 

[ToyoHabu]

There are several powders used in powder coat that have various physical and chemical properties. The epoxy based powders have excellent chemical resistance but like all epoxies will fade, yellow and chalk in UV. There are urethane based powder coats that have excellent shine and UV resistance.

 

[Enraged]

if its aluminum, go for anodizing. itll hold up longer than most anything.

hot rolled implies steel, but you're right, if it was aluminum, anodizing would be better.

 

[Ric]

Depends on the type of powder used. Different powders for different purposes. Make sure it's one for outdoor use.