The Effect of Low Temperatures on Powder
I have an application of powder coated steel storage racks in a freezer at 20°F below zero. Does powder paint, like steel, get harder as the temperature goes lower?
Q. I have an application of powder coated steel storage racks in a freezer at 20°F below zero. Does powder paint, like steel, get harder as the temperature goes lower? J.G.
A.Yes, very low temperatures have a definite effect on powder coatings. One of the most severe tests for functional epoxy (FBE) pipe coatings is a bend test at –40°F. For the coating to pass it must stand up to several percentage points of stretch (elongation) over a 0.25-inch thick steel substrate at 12 mils coating thickness. However, most powders do not have this feature inherent in the coating formulation.
Typically, you will see reduced impact results of any type powder coating (including thermoplastic powder coatings) at temperatures equal to or less than 32°F (0°C). You must take all this into consideration when selecting a powder coating for a low temperature application. As always, I recommend testing your powder coated parts in this environment before committing to a final design.
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