Quality Adhesion Tests You Can Try on Powder Coating

When it comes to powder coating, the adhesion between the powder and the substrate is a vital factor to consider. Without proper adhesion, coatings can easily peel or flake off, leading to product failure and costly rework. We’ll discuss some quality adhesion tests that you can try on your powder coatings.

Crosshatch Adhesion Test

This is a commonly used test to determine the adhesion of coatings. It involves making two cuts at a 90-degree angle through the coating, resulting in a grid pattern. Testing professionals layer adhesive tape over the cuts, then quickly remove it. The amount of coating that comes off determines the adhesion strength. The test occurs on a small area of the coated surface, and the recorded results use a rating system.

Impact Test

This test measures the adhesion resistance of the coating to impact and deformation. It involves dropping a weight from a predetermined height onto the coated surface, then measuring the extent of damage. The test results can help determine if the coating has enough resilience to withstand impact damage and maintain its adhesion strength.

Pull-Off Adhesion Test

Pull-off adhesion tests measure the amount of force required to remove the coating from the substrate using a specialized apparatus. During these exams, individuals glue a dolly to the surface of the powder coating. Then, using a hydraulic pump, testers pull the dolly away and measure the force required. The results will give you an idea of the coating strength and whether it will remain in place during normal use.

Chemical Resistance Test

Another quality adhesion test you can try on powder coated items is the chemical resistance test. This test identifies how resistant the coating is to chemicals. By applying a specific chemical to the surface and observing the damage over time, you can measure how resistant to that substance your product is. Coatings that can withstand chemical attacks have a better chance of adhering to the substrate for an extended period.

Humidity Resistance Test

You’ll want to make sure that your coating can withstand humidity exposure as well. Highly humid conditions can lead to coating failures over time due to moisture penetration. The test exposes the coated substrate to high humidity for a specified duration, then measures the adhesive strength.

Conducting adhesion tests on your powder coatings can help you identify potential issues before they become costly problems. These are all useful ways to determine your coating’s suitability for use in a given application. At Swisher, we’re committed to providing value, quality, and continuous improvement to our products. We stand by our automated powder coating process and believe it’s the best the industry has to offer. Learn more about our processes and powder coating expertise by calling us today.