
Thermoplastic powders are also thicker and more flexible than thermoset powders.

Thus you can use far less powder to achieve the same finish. It is also less dense than thermoset powders. Thermoplastic coating offers higher performance than thermoset. Thermoplastic powder coating is usually more expensive, although recent technological advancements enabled enormous cost reduction in the process. Thermoset powder coating is most commonly used since it is generally the least expensive option and easy to apply. This creates an even, corrosion-resistant surface coat. While these categories differ in application and execution, they all have this in common: a powder is applied to a surface, which hardens under specific conditions. Powder coating is divided into three categories: thermoset, thermoplastic, and UV curable. Here, the surface coating will usually protect the part in question from the sun or other harmful environmental factors. These include plastics, carbon fiber, composites, and MDF (medium-density fiberboard). Non-metallic materials sometimes require a protective surface layer too. Areas where powder coating is advantageous include marine applications and roadways where de-icing salts are commonly applied. Powder coating is a commonly used surface coating since it is tough, can vary in thickness, and comes in various colors and surface finishes. Here, it is helpful to apply a protective surface layer that is corrosion resistant and tough enough to withstand expected wear that the part in question may undergo. Even stainless steel can rust under specific conditions. Metals tend to corrode under normal usage conditions. Though it is not as durable as PVD coating due to its thickness, it provides excellent rust prevention, color uniformity and scratch protection. Powder coating differs from traditional liquid paint, which is generally applied using an evaporating solvent. It can be applied to any material, but it is commonly used on steel, aluminum, and plastic.

This coating is applied electrostatically as a free-flowing powder and cured under heat or UV light. Powder coating is a surface treatment used to protect metals and other materials against potentially harmful environmental factors.
