Home / Our Process / Powder Coating
Leading Edge Manufacturing delivers a smooth, long-lasting powder coat that resists chipping, scratching, and corrosion. Choose from stock colors or custom colors made to your specifications, including federal standard color matching and precision two-tone finishes.
Our solvent-free process is also environmentally responsible, minimizing waste and emissions. Have a project in mind? Let’s discuss the right finish for your application.
Stock and custom color matching
Precision two-tone finishing
Superior durability and corrosion resistance
Clean, eco-friendly process
Strict quality control for every part
From surface preparation to final cure, each stage is built for durability, adhesion, and a corrosion-resistant finish.
Every part is prepared for adhesion using one of two methods:
Zirconium Wash: an eco-friendly alternative to iron phosphate that cleans the surface and reduces sludge.
Abrasive Blasting: high-pressure media removes rust, contaminants, or old coatings.
For harsh conditions, high moisture, or extreme temperatures, a zinc primer base coat adds adhesion and rust protection before the topcoat.
We apply your chosen color and finish: gloss, matte, satin, textured, or metallic, including custom colors and two-tone finishes.
Parts cure in an oven, where controlled heat flows the powder into a smooth layer and cross-links it into a hard, durable film that resists wear, impact, and corrosion.
Powder coating is highly durable and can last 10-20 years, depending on environmental exposure, material type, and application method. Outdoor coatings may experience some fading over time due to UV exposure, but UV-resistant formulations help extend longevity.
Powder coating works best on conductive metals, including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and cast iron. Some materials may require special pre-treatment to enhance adhesion and performance.
Yes, but the existing coating must first be removed by abrasive blasting or chemical stripping so the new coat adheres properly. Powder coating adheres best to clean, bare metal surfaces.
Powder coating thickness varies based on application and purpose but typically falls between 2-10 mils (0.002-0.010 inches). Specialty coatings, such as corrosion-resistant or high-wear finishes, may be applied thicker.
We offer a variety of stock colors and can create custom colors to your specifications, including federal standard color matching. Finishes include gloss, matte, satin, textured, and metallic options.
Standard powder coatings withstand temperatures up to 300-400°F, but high-temperature formulations can endure 1,000°F or more for applications like exhaust systems. Chemical-resistant coatings are available for industrial and marine applications.
While powder coating is extremely durable, deep scratches or chips cannot be easily touched up like liquid paint. Minor damage may be addressed with a localized re-coat, but significant wear typically requires complete re-coating.
Yes, powder coating adds a thin but measurable layer to surfaces. If tight tolerances are required, we can account for the coating thickness during the process.
Yes. Unlike traditional liquid paint, powder coating contains no solvents or harmful VOCs, making it a safer, low-waste alternative. The process also produces minimal hazardous byproducts, making it an eco-conscious finishing choice.
Powder coating offers superior durability, corrosion resistance, and environmental benefits over liquid paint. It doesn’t require solvents, produces minimal waste, and results in a stronger, longer-lasting finish.
