What is the standard lead-time for the Powder Coating Service

Powder coating typically adds 5-7 extra days to the lead time for parts ordered through Fabworks' laser cutting and sheet metal fabrication services. This additional processing time is necessary to ensure a high-quality, durable finish on your parts. The powder coating process involves several steps that contribute to this extended lead time. First, the parts must be thoroughly cleaned and prepared for coating. This may include degreasing, deburring, or chemical treatments to ensure proper adhesion of the powder. Next, the powder is applied electrostatically to the parts, which are then cured in a high-temperature oven. This baking process allows the powder to melt and form a smooth, even coating.

After the initial curing, the parts may require additional finishing touches or quality checks. For more complex parts, the process may need to be repeated, further extending the lead time. It's important to note that while powder coating adds time to the overall production process, it provides significant benefits in terms of durability, aesthetics,compared to traditional liquid paint finishes.

Fabworks strives to maintain efficiency throughout the powder coating process, but the nature of the technique necessitates this additional time to ensure the best possible results. When placing your order, you'll be provided with an accurate shipping date that takes into account all services requested, including powder coating. This allows you to plan your project timeline accordingly.

For time-sensitive projects, it may be worth considering whether powder coating is essential or if alternative finishing methods might be suitable. However, if the benefits of powder coating are crucial to your project's success, the added lead time is generally well worth the wait for the superior finish and longevity it provides.