Painted finishes on structural foam molded parts.
As molded, structural foam material is extremely rugged and impervious under harsh conditions. This is ideal for many products and applications where structural foam is used. However, sometimes a more attractive appearance is desired.
Beautiful and durable painted finishes can be applied to structural foam molded parts.
These are the steps used in the finishing process.
1. As-Molded
Structural foam molded thermoplastics exhibit a characteristic swirl pattern or a mottled surface that can be attractive on durable outdoor, industrial or factory applications. However, the as-molded structural foam appearance isn’t appropriate for all products.
2. Sanded
Sanding is the first step when painted parts are required. The sanded surface provides better paint adherence.
3. Primed
As with most painting processes, a good primer coat is crucial.
4. Color Coat
A luster, semi-gloss or glossy sprayed color coating produces a smooth and even-looking paint finish.
5. Textured
Textured surfaces can be applied for aesthetic purposes or to reduce finger prints when the finished product will receive a lot of handling. A textured finish also assists in hiding blemishes in the part surface created during the molding process.
A proper finishing process and high quality paint material produces a good-looking and durable product.