TRiXX Powder Coating

What is powder coating?

Powder Coating is a process where the piece, usually metal, is electrostaticly charged. The charge draws the powder to the piece in an even coat and is then heated in an oven to melt the powder and create a smooth, solid finish.

What can be powder coated?

Any metal that can hold a static charge and withstand 500º can be powdercoated. This includes aluminum, brass, steel, and iron to name a few. There are some high temperature plastics which can also be done, but they are not very common.

Preparation

Powder coating requires a clean smooth surface. It is highly recommended that you remove any finish from your parts before you send them, using paint stripper or sandblasting. We can remove existing coatings for an additional $20 fee. Anodized parts do not require removal.

You will also want to make sure that the parts are completely free of any plastic or rubber items that will melt. We cannot be held responsible for any disassembly that may be required.

Powder coating paintball gear.

If you own a Tippmann Model 98, chances are its already powdercoated. Powder coating provides a unique finish for paintball equipment because of the various shades, illusions, and sparkle additives which cannot be achieved with anodizing. It is ideal for giving your marker a unique look that will certainly turn heads. One thing to take note of is that powder coat has a greater thickness than most. While the thickness isn't usually visable to the naked eye, it is not recommended for internal parts (bolts, sears, hammers, etc). Outer parts such as bodies, feed tubes, expansion chambers, grip frames, etc. are ideal for powder coating.

Powder coating automotive parts.

Powder coating is an excellent choice for parts the will be handled/removed frequently due its high scratch resistance. Common parts are valve covers, tubing, stabilizers bars, etc. The same rules apply here with tolorences; it is not a good idea to powdercoat moving parts.

Powder coating computer parts.

Powder coating computer parts can be a great way to set your rig apart from the rest. Common requests are for cases, power supply cases, drive bay trays, radiators, etc.

Powder coating VS. Anodizing

Anodizing is an excellent choice for aluminum parts, however it does have some drawbacks. The process of Anodizing requires electrical current and several chemicals which can make the process quite lengthy and expensive to have done. While anodize is king when to comes to the "metallic" look, it does not withstand heavy blows the way powder coat does. Good powdercoat should withstand a ten pound blow from a hammer. Also 90% of paintball equipment is anodized, making it difficult to achieve a truly unique look for your marker, simply because it has probably been done before.

Powder coating VS. Paint

While painting is the most affordable option, it is also the least resistant to damage. Painting yourself can lead to runs, cracks, bubbles, and a sticky texture. In addition, having it done professionally will often bring the price equal to or above powder coating.

What sizes can be done?

We at Trixx are currently capable of doing parts a maximum of 15"x15"x20"

How long does it take?

Once we receive your items, we usually have them shipped out in 2 - 3 business days. If the powder you requested is out of stock it can take up to a week.