Color Matching

Question:

We have a powder coater that is making parts for us using Morton Color 11-7001 (asphalt black). We have found a second source for this powder coating service and just did a trial run with them. The parts we received look different (the color is more glossy and it looks more “textured”)...we really don’t know what to do at this point. I mean, which color is correct? I guess the only thing we can do is ask our customer to see which color is correct. Is there anything else that we can do at this point? The production supervisor was wondering about that color number (11-7001). Is there any type of spec that goes with this color? I know that powder coating is a process and each supplier could run this process a little different so I guess we have no choice but to stick with one supplier. R.R.

Answer:

The problems you are seeing between both these powder coaters are most probably caused by poor process implementation or process control. However, batch-to-batch consistency of the powder material itself can also be to blame, but for now we can assume that there is nothing wrong with the powder. Verify that both powder coaters are using the same batch number from Morton and you can definitely eliminate this concern.

The process used to apply and cure the powder coating directly affects the color, gloss and surface smoothness of a particular powder coating. For instance, lack of film thickness control will make a powder look more or less textured (orange peel). Improper gun settings and poor part grounding will do the same thing (KV starring). Under or over curing of the powder will change the color and gloss of the finished part. Improper oven ventilation (exhaust) will also affect color and gloss of a powder coating. All these issues are process related and must be corrected to obtain the desired look and feel of the coating. Use the powder coater that has the best control over his process and you can be sure to obtain consistent results.