Tips for Discovering the Best Powder Coating Equipment

Source | ThinkStock

Q: We have some very old booths and application equipment that needs replacing. We have talked with several vendors, and we could use some advice on who makes the best equipment. Can you give us any direction on the best company for powder spray guns and booths?

A: Selection of powder equipment is like any other purchase for your business. You need to compare the offer and select the company that can provide the best value. Performance matters a lot, so you will need to test the potential equipment.

I strongly recommend a visit to the test lab of any vendor you are considering. Nothing can help as much as seeing the company up close and seeing the equipment perform on your product. You can test their equipment and learn how the advertised features work. Look at the number of guns used, spacing, gun output, coverage and control. Measure film build consistency and look at critical areas to see how well the equipment is working. Ask about spare parts wear and price to see how costly it will be to maintain the equipment. Ask about service technicians’ relative experience and availability. Construct a table to compare the performance and service features and put some values to each item (gun output, film build consistency, coverage in tight spaces, edge coverage and so on).

Initial cost is important but it should be lower on the list. Operational performance and things that add up to lower cost over time are more important.

About the Author

Rodger Talbert

Rodger has more than 30 years of experience in the powder coating industry.