Powder Coating
Our powder coating process provides a high-quality, durable finish that outperforms conventional paint. Applied as a dry powder using electrostatic techniques, the coating is then heat-cured to flow and form a tough, protective skin. This finish resists chipping, scratching, fading, and wear, making it ideal for metal parts, machinery, and industrial equipment.
Contact us today to request a quote and enhance the durability and appearance of your components.
Dry Film Lubricants
Our dry film lubricants are advanced, paint-like coatings that form a solid, low-friction layer between two surfaces in motion. Designed to minimize wear, these coatings reduce friction, prevent galling, and enhance performance in demanding applications. Ideal for high-load, high-temperature, or extreme environment conditions, dry film lubricants provide long-lasting protection where traditional oils and greases may fail. Request a quote.
Chemical Agent Resistant Coating
Our Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) paint system provides a tough, protective finish designed for rapid and effective decontamination after exposure to liquid chemical agents. Engineered for military, defense, and specialized industrial applications, CARC paint resists corrosion, wear, and environmental damage while ensuring surfaces remain mission-ready and easy to clean in the most demanding conditions. Request a quote.
Alkyd, Epoxy & Polyurethane
At Sub Source, we specialize in delivering high-quality painted parts to a wide range of OEM customers. Our streamlined production and shipping process allows many orders to be shipped directly from our facility to the end user, reducing turnaround times and improving efficiency. With a focus on precision, durability, and on-time delivery, we help OEMs meet demanding production schedules without compromising quality.
Military Spec Paint
Sub Source offers military specification (MIL-SPEC) painting solutions for aerospace programs, the U.S. Department of Defense, and all branches of the military. Our coatings meet strict performance and durability standards, ensuring compliance with defense requirements while delivering superior protection in the most demanding environments. Request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Powder Coating
What is powder coating?
Powder coating is a dry finishing process that applies a fine, electrostatically charged powder to a surface, which is then heat-cured to form a smooth, durable coating. This process creates a hard, protective finish that is more resistant to chipping, scratching, fading, and wear than conventional paint.
Key Benefits of Powder Coating:
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Long-Lasting Durability – Withstands harsh environments and heavy use.
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Environmentally Friendly – Contains no solvents and produces minimal waste.
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Wide Color & Finish Options – Available in glossy, matte, metallic, and textured styles.
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Superior Protection – Resists corrosion, chemicals, and UV damage.
Commonly used in automotive, industrial, appliance, and architectural applications, powder coating offers both performance and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred choice for metal finishing.
What are the types of powder coating?
Powder coating comes in two primary types—thermoplastic and thermoset—each with unique properties and applications.
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Thermoplastic Powder Coating
When heated, thermoplastic powder coatings soften and flow into a liquid state without forming chemical bonds. This makes the coating reversible and reusable, as it can be reheated and remolded without degrading. Thermoplastic coatings are ideal for applications requiring flexibility and impact resistance. -
Thermoset Powder Coating
Thermoset powder coatings undergo a chemical reaction during curing, creating strong, permanent bonds. Once cured, these coatings are heat-resistant, durable, and cannot be remelted. Thermosets are typically more cost-effective than thermoplastics and are well-suited for environments with high heat and demanding conditions.
Choosing between thermoplastic and thermoset powder coating depends on your application’s durability, heat resistance, and cost requirements.
Thermoplastic vs. Thermoset Powder Coating
| Feature | Thermoplastic Powder Coating | Thermoset Powder Coating |
|---|---|---|
| Bonding | No chemical bonding; coating softens when reheated | Forms permanent chemical bonds during curing |
| Reusability | Reversible and reusable | Irreversible once cured |
| Heat Resistance | Lower heat resistance | Excellent heat resistance |
| Durability | Flexible and impact-resistant | Hard, rigid, and highly durable |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | Typically more cost-effective |
| Best For | Applications needing flexibility, rework, or heavy impact protection | High-heat environments, long-term durability, and industrial applications |
How durable is powder coating?
Powder coating delivers an exceptionally tough and long-lasting finish thanks to the strong chemical bonds formed during the curing process. Once applied, the coating provides superior resistance to moisture, chemicals, extreme weather, and physical impact, helping protect products in demanding environments.
Under normal conditions, a quality powder coating can last up to 20 years. In harsher settings—such as heavy industrial use or constant outdoor exposure—lifespan may be reduced, but performance still exceeds that of most traditional paints.
What are the advantages of powder coating over liquid coating?
Powder coating offers several key benefits compared to traditional liquid coatings. It is more environmentally friendly, producing minimal waste and eliminating the need for flammable solvents. The application process is also safer and cleaner due to advanced, efficient equipment.
In addition, powder coating reduces processing time. Unlike liquid coatings, it typically requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage and durability, resulting in faster turnaround without sacrificing quality.
