·??Info on powder coatings 2

Combination ovens generally use IR in the first zone to melt the powder quickly. The following convection zone can then use relatively higher airflows without disturbing the powder. These higher flows permit faster heat transfer and a shorter cure time.

A variety of radiation curing technologies are available, including near-infrared, ultraviolet (UV) and electron beam (EB). These processes have the potential to open up new applications for powder coating of heat-sensitive substrates such as wood, plastic parts and assembled components with heat-sensitive details.

UV curing requires specially formulated powders that can be cured by exposure to ultraviolet light. The powder first needs to be exposed to enough heat so it is molten when exposed to UV energy; the initial heat source is typically infrared but convection heating can also be used. The coating is then exposed to a UV lamp. A photo-initiator in the coating material absorbs the UV energy and converts the molten film to a solid cured finish in a matter of seconds.

Near-infrared curing also uses specially formulated powders coupled with high-energy light sources and high-focusing reflector systems to complete the powder coating and curing process within several seconds. Heat-sensitive assembled parts such as internal gaskets, hydraulic cylinders, and air bag canisters can benefit from this technology.