What is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a durable and versatile finishing method for metals such as aluminium or steel. It provides long-lasting protection and, where required, can have an attractive finish suitable for architectural, industrial and commercial applications.
At C&O Powder Coatings, we have over 40 years of experience in applying high-quality performance coatings to aluminium and galvanised steel fabrications, combining quality materials with strict process control to deliver a high-quality, consistent, and accredited powder coating finish.
How Powder Coating Works
Powder coating is a dry process. Instead of liquid paint, a fine powder mixture of pigment and resin is sprayed onto the metal surface. Because the surface is electrostatically charged the powder clings to the metal surface. This is then baked in an oven, where heat melts the powder and bonds it to the metal creating a smooth, continuous coating.
The result is a tough, even layer of powder coating that resists corrosion, fading, and impact damage. Because the coating forms a physical barrier, it protects metal from the effects of moisture, salt, its environment, and ultraviolet light.
The Powder Coating Process at C&O
At C&O we follow a proven, certified, four-stage process that ensures a high quality, durable powder coating finish.
Benefits of Powder Coating
Powder coating offers a wide range of practical and environmental advantages compared to wet paint systems. These include:
Performance Benefits
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Strong adhesion and durability
- Resistance to UV exposure, impact and wear
- Consistent colour and texture across large areas
Environmental Benefits
- No volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Minimal waste through powder recovery and recycling
- Chrome-free pre-treatment for safer processing
- Lower overall environmental impact compared to solvent-based paints
Powder Coating Colours and Finishes
Powder coating provides designers and architects a wide choice of colours, textures and gloss levels for their project. As accredited applicators for IGP, Axalta, Syntha Pulvin, Interpon, Jotun, and Tiger we can offer a wide range of powder coating styles to suit all projects including,
- Solid colours from the RAL and BS ranges
- Smooth and textured metallics
- Textured decorative coatings to match natural weathering
- Anti-microbial powder coating
- Anodic coatings to match anodising finishing
- Matt and Gloss finishes
This flexibility allows us to meet both design requirements and functional specifications for every project.
Applications of Powder Coating
Powder coating is used in many industries where durability and appearance are equally important. Typical applications include:
- Architectural façades, windows and cladding
- Railings, balustrades and street furniture
- Industrial equipment and enclosures
- Public infrastructure and transport projects
- Outdoor products and structural steelwork
Our large-scale conveyorised lines allow us to handle complex fabrications while maintaining quality, accuracy and consistency.
Why Choose C&O Powder Coatings
With more than 40 years of experience, C&O Powder Coatings has built a reputation for reliability, precision, and quality.
We hold Qualicoat and Qualicoat Seaside certifications as well ISO 9001: 2015 registration, demonstrating our ability to meet the highest international standards. Our Total Quality Management system ensures that quality is monitored at every stage, from pre-treatment to final inspection.
By choosing C&O, our clients benefit from:
Certified quality control and process auditing
Advanced chrome-free pre-treatment technology
A full range of colours and specialist finishes
Consistent turnaround and technical support
Powder coating delivers protection, performance, and design flexibility. It provides a strong, uniform surface capable of withstanding years of exposure to challenging environments.
At C&O Powder Coatings, we combine accredited processes, environmental responsibility and technical expertise to deliver results our customers can rely on.
To learn more about our powder coating services or to discuss your next project contact us.
Powder Coating FAQ
What can be powder coated?
Powder coating can be used for metals such as, aluminium, stainless , raw and galvanised steel and in a range of projects including architectural façades, cladding, public infrastructure and transport projects.
What colours are available?
C&O can provide all RAL and BS range of colours which are also available in different textures and finishes
How does powder coating compare to painting?
Powder coating offers improved durability and a more uniform finish. There are no drips or runs, and it’s more environmentally friendly as it contains no solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
How long does powder coating last?
If properly applied powder coating can last over 20 years depending on environmental conditions.
Are there any quality standards for powder coating?
Both Qualicoat and Qualicoat Seaside certifications are recognised powder coating standards as well as BS EN 12206.