Picking the Right Powder Coating Equipment

Pretty much everyone looking to get started with powder coating are confused by the countless systems and configurations of equipment they will need. Surely this can be over whelming to some, if not all, a general knowledge of the differences between the way the system works and it's various features can make this choice far easier.

The most important part of the equation is the gun. Missing this item, you would be tossing powder at your part wondering why it won't stick. In this section, we have various options, ranging from entry level beginner systems, to slightly more rugged powder coating guns for increased productivity. We'll start with the low cost and entry level systems most hobby users would get started with.

The first gun, and also the first one I ever picked up, is the Chicago Electric powder coating system. A low pressure working range starts us off, and uses a top mount cup system. This unit has no ability to control it's power, but the manufacturer does include 2 cups, and more can be purchased to at least ease in color changes. The unit's control box for the powder coat paint is activated by a foot pedal. The control box is rather big for a non-variable hobby unit, but it works off of standard 110v home power. This is about tied with the hot-coat model to get started with, at only $69.99.

Our second option, and subsequently, the second one I have ever used is the Eastwood company's hot-coat system. I purchased this gun 3 years ago and have had no complaints, and the price has fallen to $62.99. As with the Chicago gun, Eastwood does offer replacement cups, and also various spray ends to help with spray patterns and give a more flexible coating to your part. The control box is fairly small, about 1/4 of the size of the Chicago system, and this unit works off a thumb switch to activate it. This can become quite cumbersome, but easy to get used to, as both hands will be tied up in operation this system. I found this unit very enjoyable with the additional tips, this system can use most manufacturers shipping cups directly on the gun, which makes color changes fast and easy on this unit.

From the same system as the Chicago gun, is Caswell's HV powder coating gun. This is basically the Chicago unit re-branded under the Caswell name, however Caswell has implemented adjustable 30kv-50kv voltage adjustment. Variable voltage is very important, as with each layer you apply, a stronger static adhesion is required. While this system costs more at $230.00, the advantages over a cheaper system are numerous and the price isn't too steep for most to pay.

Our final entry, is actually listed as a Pro Series. Eastwood's Hot Coat Pro 1100 series retails in at $599.99 and is a one handed activation and operation setup. With the ability to scale voltage from 10kv-25kv, leaves you a bit shy of the Caswell's numbers, but will allow a user to get 2nd and 3rd coats easily and quickly.. As with their cheaper system, different tips are available to produce varying spray patterns and give you as much coverage as possible on the part.

These 4 systems, while spanning a decent range in price (from $62.99-$599.99) are all a cost effective and competitive way to get started. Being able to pick the best.. well, that will vary depending on who's buying the setup. Regardless of the pick, this powder coating equipment will allow you to have professional results in a quick and timely manner.