Last Updated on May 2022
You most likely are struggling to find the best powder coating guns in the market, and it’s becoming stressful to get what you exactly need.
Quite disappointing.
Since the market is flooded with inferior powder coating systems, it might be challenging to find a cost-effective, efficient spray gun for your work.
And this is where this article comes in handy.
Here, we will:
- Show you the best powder coating guns,
- Explain the importance of powder coating systems,
- Outline the factors to consider before purchasing the coating guns,
- List the best brands to look for when purchasing powder coating guns,
- Outline the different types of powder coating machines,
- Explain the safety precautions to consider when using the spray guns,
- Respond to frequently asked questions
Essentially, you will find everything you’ve been looking for about powder coat guns in this article. It’s going to be exciting and intensive coverage. To save you energy, you only need to click any of the above links, and it will take you to the section you want to read.
Do you want to find the value for your money?
Let’s get started.
6 Best Powder Coating Gun Reviews In 2021
Whether it’s your first time to use a powder coat gun or you are an expert looking for the best powder coating guns, the following are the best models you will find in the market that might suit your needs:
- Redline Powder Coating Gun System with Bonus Powder Cup Kit: Model EZ50
- Chicago Electric Power Tools Portable Powder Coating System
- Eastwood Dual Voltage Powder Gun
- Mophorn WX-958 Powder Coating Machine
- Hyper Smooth 02 LED Electrostatic Powder Coating System
- 2019 New Complete PC04-5 10~30 PSI Powder Coating System
| Product | Item Weight | Output Range | Package Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.6 pounds | 50kv | 12 x 12 x 8 inches | |
| 8.45 pounds | - | 14 x 8 x 10 inches | |
| 5 pounds | 25kv | 18 x 10 x 6 inches | |
| 49 pounds | 100kv | 23 x 19 x 18 inches | |
| 27 pounds | 100kv | 14 x 9 x 5.5 inches | |
| 1 pounds | 50kv | - |
Redline Powder Coating Gun System with Bonus Powder Cup Kit: Model EZ50
Highlighted Features of Redline EZ50
- Three extra powder cups
- Additional 10-foot cable with a connecting clip
- Inbuilt controls (no hand switches or foot pedal)
- Inbuilt automatic powder control
- Powder control knobs
Suppose you are looking for a lightweight powder coating gun equipped with all accessories for the coating exercise. In that case, this Redline powder coating gun model is all you need.
Besides the powder coating spray gun, the Redline EZ50 kit comes packed with other valuable accessories that include:
- one special air supply adapter fitting (USA)
- three powder flow deflectors (12MM, 19MM, and 25MM)
- three powder cups with lids
- two powder coating electrodes
- one power supply
The three powder cups with lids will save you time and energy to switch between colors. This is possible because you do not have to keep cleaning one cup for the next color.
When it comes to application, the Redline EZ50 is undemanding. The controls of this all-inclusive powder coating gun are inbuilt, making it user-friendly. You only need to control everything from the powder coat gun by twisting a knob (it does not have foot pedals, hand switches, or box controllers).
Another exciting feature of this gun is its ground cable. It comes with a 10-foot ground cable with a connecting clip essential to reach longer distances. The other items you will find in this bonus powder coating kit are; one package of spare O-rings and one user manual guide.
Customer Reviews
“This gun is amazing. I wish I would have upgraded years ago. It will pay for itself just in the amount of overspray that is reduced. Hardly any residue on the floor and the adjustable voltage makes it easy to get in the tight spots.”- S. Tentacles.
Pros
- Fast color change (less than a minute)
- Versatile-applicable on metal, wood, plastic, and glass
- User-friendly
- Easy to clean
- Affordable compared to its competitors
- Can reach longer distance (10-foot cable)
Cons
- Weak handle
Chicago Electric Power Tools Portable Powder Coating System
Highlighted Features of Chicago Tools Powder Coating System
- 120 volts gun power lead
- Requires PSI of 10-30
- Can use any standard powder coating
- Remote activation switch
- Footswitch for activating the gun
- Two powder cups
- Airflow regulation valve
Chicago electric portable powder system is the ideal powder coat gun you need for a smooth, pleasant finish that is tougher than conventional paints.
If you are looking to coat trucks, cars, or airplane parts with a smooth cover that is easy to clean up, you cannot go wrong with the Chicago tools powder coating system.
This user-friendly powder gun package comes with:
- 8′ lead with ground clamp
- remote
- 8′ high voltage gun power lead
- power source
- cord
- two powder cups
- inline filter
- disposable moisture separator
- extra sealing gasket
- spare tip O-ring
- spare fuse
- a footswitch.
To operate this electric powder coat gun, all you need to do is fill the tool with your preferred powder and start the painting process. Its design is flexible so that as you use your hands to operate the gun, your leg will be working on the switch.
The machine requires 10-30 PSI air pressure, and it is powered with 120 volts making it ideal for all powder coating exercises. It is a versatile tool that can shoot any type of powder (chrome, texture, and metallic) appropriate for hobbyists or shop owners.
Customer Reviews
“This is perfect for what it’s intended for. I could see doing parts as large as car rims. You will be limited to the size of your oven. About 20 psi supplied by a small compressor is all that’s needed. Anything more would be a waste. Little to no waist and mess, I kept the air pressure as low as possible for great results.”-GRL Guitars.
Pros
- Versatile tool and log lasting
- It is usable with any standard powder paint
- User-friendly
- It is portable
- Available in fair price compared to its competition
- Has an inline filter (moisture filter)
Cons
- Challenging to clean when switching colors
- Only appropriate for the smaller parts of the vehicle rather than the more significant parts
Eastwood Dual Voltage Powder Gun
Eastwood Dual Voltage Powder Gun Highlighted Features
- Low 15000-volt setting
- High 25000-volt setting (for multi-coat coverage over larger surfaces)
- Superior quality finish
- Coats and cures in less than an hour
- Complete coverage (from tight to more extensive areas)
Eastwood dual voltage powder gun is a top-quality spray gun with a minimum voltage of 15000 volts and a maximum of 25000 volts suitable for doing two separate coats. The 15000-volt setting is for coating small areas, while the 25000-volt setting is to paint large surfaces.
The gun is user-friendly, and it’s quick to switch colors. One unique thing you’ll like about this gun is the quality of the finish it has. Eastwood dual voltage powder gun offers a superior quality finish, long-lasting, and cures in less than an hour.
This dual voltage powder gun comes with:
- Ground clamp
- Handheld activation switch
- 6 Ft activation and ground leads
- Removable diverter
- Quick change powder bottle
To power the gun, you will need a compressed air source of between 5-10 PSI (either from a compressor or a handy tank with a regulator). You will also need an electric powder coating oven for curing and a ventilated workspace for the coating exercise.
Customer Reviews
“Works like a charm. I am delighted with the results I got on my first try, and it was not very hard or time-consuming.”– Jennifer L. Mohrman.
Pros
- Coats and cures very fast (less than an hour)
- Long-lasting, high-quality finish
- User-friendly
- Quick to switch color
- Versatile with dual settings
- Covers both tight areas and large surfaces
Cons
- Lacks tweaking and some adjusting
Mophorn WX-958 Powder Coating Machine
Highlighted Features of Mophorn X-958 Powder Coating Machine
- 45 liters capacity (equivalent to 12 gallons)
- Fast speed (450g a minute)
- Voltage auto-adjustment with circuit protection
- Durable stainless steel
- Push and pull wheels
- 0-100 kV output range
Mophorn X-958 powder coating machine is a budget-friendly system for industrial use. This 12-gallon machine is made of high-quality stainless steel, making it a powerful powder coat gun capable of withstanding corrosion, rust, acid, and alkali.
Its 45 liters capacity tank provides sufficient space for powder ink to paint more expansive areas without refilling frequently. Also, its speed is superb. It can spray up to 450g in a minute (approximately 16 ounces per minute), making you cover larger areas within a short period. These two features make this electrostatic spraying machine convenient for industrial use.
Another fantastic feature of this powder coating system is its voltage. Mophorn X-958 comes with a voltage auto-adjustment control and circuit protection system that ensures you achieve fine, stable qualities.
The package content of this feature powder coat gun include:
- One trolley
- One control unit
- Powder gun spare parts
- One fluidizer powder hopper
- One pressure regulating valve
- One powder hose
- Air tubes
- Grounding lines
- One oil-water separator
- One manual powder gun with gun cable (4m)
Whether you are working on flat or recessed surfaces, the Mophorn X-958 powder coating machine is the right equipment you need for the job.
Customer Reviews
“I was a little skeptical about this machine because of the price being so low compared to all the other industrial machines. But I tried it out, and I’m thrilled with it. This machine is amazing compared to the Eastwood gun much much, much better!”- Jesse Pereira.
Pros
- Long-lasting (made of high-quality stainless steel)
- Auto-adjusting voltage functions with circuit protection
- The push and pull wheels make mobility easy
- It is a versatile powder coating system
- Fast speed (450g per minute)
Cons
- Unclear installation manual
Hyper Smooth 02 LED Electrostatic Powder Coating System
Highlighted Features of Hyper Smooth 02 LED Powder Coating System
- User-friendly
- The adjustable kV output range of 0-100 kV
- Air adjustment knob
- Versatile (2 nozzles and two tips)
- LED display gauge
- Two hoppers (different sizes)
- Pressure gauge
This electrostatic powder coating system is ideal for several coats. Beginners will find it very dependable on their first-time use.
It is a durable, economical spray gun with a kV output of up to 100kV compatible with different coat nozzles. Besides the voltage regulation knob located on the box, this machine comes with an air adjustment knob that enables the user to set a preferred air output (fast or slow flow).
This powder coating gun comes with:
- A power supply
- One ground cable with a clip
- 1lb and 2 lb standard hoppers
- A flat spray nozzle
- One Widemouth multi-coat nozzle
- 1″ standard nozzle
Although an industrial machine, beginners will find it easy to operate this electrostatic powder coating gun.
Customer Review
“Works great. No problem doing 3 or 4 coats.”- Ron Carlson
Pros
- Has two hoppers (1lb and 2lb)
- User-friendly
- Has a pressure gauge for accuracy
- Flexible for multiple coats
- Budget-friendly and economical
- Switching between colors is fast and easy
- Removable nozzles and tips
Cons
- You cannot adjust Amps
2019 New Complete PC04-5 10~30 PSI Powder Coating System
Highlighted Features of 2019 New Complete Powder Coating System
- 10 to 30 PSI air supply pressure at 3.5 CFM
- Allows up to 400℉ paint curing temperature for 15 mins
- Adjustable voltage output (0-100kV)
- User-friendly control box
2019 New complete powder coating system is among the best industrial powder coating guns. It is a user-friendly device with a button system for regulating the desired amount for both powder and air.
This powder coating equipment is the go-to device for durable multi-color finishing on metal, wood, glass, plastic, and concrete surfaces. The device is high-tech with a digital pulse that makes it more efficient.
It comes packed with:
- Two-liner power cord
- Cup
- Grounding cable
- Control box
- Spray gun
At 3.5 CFM, this powder coating equipment has 10-30 PSI air supply pressure.
Pros
- User-friendly control box
- 10 to 30 PSI air supply pressure
- Paint curing temperature (up to 400℉ for 15 minutes)
- Comes as a complete package
- Adjustable voltage output (0-100 kV)
Cons
- At the time of writing this review, we couldn’t find any related shortcomings
Why Should You Use a Powder Coating System?
Compared to the traditional coating process, powder coating comes with considerable benefits. The following are the benefits of using powder coating systems:
Fast Curing and Drying
Compared to the liquid coating process that requires several hours to dry, powder coatings cure and dry in under ten minutes. This quick curing process speeds up the manufacturing process, therefore saving you time.
Durability
If you are looking for a long-lasting finish, a powder coating system is the option to consider. Using this system guarantees you durable surfaces resistant to extreme conditions like weather, impact, chemicals, and moisture.
Cost-effective
Powder coating ensures a long-lasting paint. Using this system, you will not need to paint every so often. And the fact that curing and drying take less time, you will not need to use heat for this process. This factor helps to cut down the curing costs.
Environmentally Friendly
Unlike the liquid paints that contain solvents and volatile organic compounds that are harmful to the environment, powder paints are solvent-free. They do not have hazardous elements that can harm the environment. Even more, powder coating systems emit less carbon dioxide compared to liquid paints.
Material Utilization
Liquid paints that are messy and complex. As such, reclaiming over-sprayed liquid paints on surfaces is not possible, compared to powder coatings that are easy to recover. In like manner, powder coating applications are free from solvents and less volatile.
Choosing the Best Powder Coating Systems: Important Considerations
The search for the appropriate powder coating gun for your job might seem challenging. This is especially true since several powder coating guns with unique features in the market make the search exercise for the best powder coating guns confusing.
To make your work easier, here are essential tips to look for when shopping for the best powder coating guns:
Durability
Purchasing a long-lasting powder gun will keep you away from the market for a long time. You will save time and money for repairs or shopping for a new spray gun.
To determine the quality standards of a spray gun, you will find it crucial to know the quality and type of materials used to make the spray guns. Consider materials that can withstand corrosive and other harsh environmental factors that lead to the spray guns’ wear and tear.
Budget
It is always vital to work within a budget. Although most high-quality products tend to be extremely expensive, purchasing a product within your budget range will help you meet other financial obligations.
To find the value of your money in a tight budget while purchasing a powder coat gun, consider reviewing different market products. You might be lucky to find a top-quality powder coat gun that is affordable.
Transfer Efficiency
To save on the cost of materials, consider powder coating guns that are of high transfer efficiency. Transfer efficiency is the gun’s proficiency rate to transfer the dry powder to the area that needs coating.
While powder coating spray guns with low transfer efficiency contribute to material wastage, spray guns with high efficiency minimize material wastage. This helps to save you the cost of materials.
Spray Rate
Spray rate refers to the area covered by the spray gun in one minute. It is calculated by considering both the speed and the amount the gun uses before completing a given work. It is critical to consider a spray gun that meets your preferred rate of spray.
To complete a manufacturing process within a short period, consider powder coating guns with a high spray rate. This will help you not only to save on time but also money.
For excellent job efficiency and speed up work, go for powder coating equipment with a high spray rate when working on large projects.
When using these types of spray guns, always exercise care when setting the powder coating equipment to minimize powder wastage.
kV Output
kV output is the voltage that powers the particles of the powder that comes out by the nozzle. Various surfaces require different output voltages. Consider powder coating equipment with adjustable output voltage. This will help you set the kV output to a convenient level.
Spray particles coming from higher kV output adjustments are considerably charged hence adheres faster to the surface. On the contrary, particles emanating from a low-level kV output are less-charged; therefore, they travel further to reach recessed areas.
For mid-range home use, a spray gun of a kV output level of below 50kV is appropriate. For professional powder coating, a spray gun of a kV output level of at least 100kV or more works best.
Ease of Cleaning and Use
No one wants to associate with complicated powder coating systems. It is tedious and time-consuming working with a system that is challenging to use. Consider spray guns with a user-friendly instruction manual. Professionals may not need this.
Even more, go for powder coating guns that are easy to clean when switching colors. Spray guns, which come with several powder cups, make the cleaning process easy and fast. Go for these guns.
If the powder guns do not come with powder cups, consider one which you can clean handily by blowing compressor air over it. For more information on the top rated air compressors [Read our Full Review]
Portability
Consider machines that are easy to transport when moving from one point to the other. Lightweight devices are much preferred for individuals moving from one workstation to the other.
If you are working on larger areas, consider the equipment that comes with 10ft power cables. If you are using a 12-gallon capacity powder coating guns, go for the ones that come with a push and pull trolley like a standard welding cart.
Nozzles and Tips Replacement
The appearance of the nozzles and tips will significantly influence the spray rate and how the powder comes out. Smaller nozzles emit thin streams of particles. On the other hand, bigger nozzles emit massive cloud particles.
Whether small or big, both nozzles are crucial. Small nozzles and tips will work well on smaller objects, while more extensive nozzles and tips are ideal for broad surfaces. For these reasons, you will certainly need both sizes for different surfaces.
Consider powder coating equipment that allows for easy replacement of the tips and nozzles. Go for the ones that come with additional tips and nozzles.
Nature of Work
A workhorse is ideal for people who have lots of work. Consider powder coat guns with high spray rate and transfer efficiency. These features will help you complete work on time while saving you money.
Once in a while, DIY jobs at home require simple devices. Highly professional equipment might not be appropriate for this case. However, if you find the professional gadgets appropriate and can afford to pay for them, proceed and purchase.
Types of Powder Coating Guns
Powder coating gun models are broadly categorized into two main types; the Corona style spray guns and the Tribo style coating guns. The main difference between the two is how they transport the powder particles from the gun.
The Corona Style Spray Guns
Corona style spray guns are the most commonly used in the auto body plating industry. They have a built-in electrode that creates a field of force between the coating surface and the nozzle. They charge any composition of powder particles hence more versatile than their counterparts.
Tribo Style Coating Guns
The performance of these types of guns depends on the friction charging. The powder particles charge by rubbing against each other on the walls of the PTFE tube. This process is not popular. It is rarely applicable in unique industrial systems.
Powder Coating Systems: Best Brands
There are thousands of powder coating guns in the market today. It is time-consuming to go through the individual features of the products. To save you this time and ensure you get the best quality, below find the best powder coating system brands in the market:
RedLine
RedLine are known manufacturers and distributors of cutting tools in the United States of America. Their headquarters are in Plymouth, Minnesota. Besides the cutting tools and other accessories, they have some of the best powder coating systems.
Mophorn
If you are looking for cost-effective quality products, you will never go wrong with Mophorn. Their products are high-quality and affordable to consumers. Besides the powder coating guns and accessories, Mophorn offers other products that include engraving machines, juice extractors, jacks, and heat presses.
Harbor Freight
This family business is the go-to brand for cheap quality products (sometimes up to 80%). For over four decades, this family business has supplied ordinary citizens with high-quality products at affordable prices compared to other brands.
Columbia Coatings
Based in Tennessee, Columbia Coatings specialize in masking, liquid, and powder coatings. They also supply top-notch hand tools and other equipment types that include booths, ovens, hoppers, and some of the best powder coating guns you will find in the market.
Safety Precautions to Consider Before Using the Powder Coating Spray Guns
Although the process of powder coating is safe, it is crucial to consider the following safety measures:
- Avoid using the vacuum cleaner when cleaning powder waste on the surface.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a face mask to protect yourself from inhaling dust.
- Protect yourself from possible electric shock by grounding the equipment securely throughout the coating exercise.
- Ensure your working area is free from moisture, and the device should also be free from moisture content.
- After each use, avoid unloading the needle into the clamp. It is not safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Powder Coating Gun?
A powder coating gun is a spray gun used for spraying powder paints on metallic surfaces. These machines charge the powder particles before electrostatically spraying them onto a grounded surface.
Is Powder Coating a DIY Process?
Yes. You can DIY powder coating at home provided you have the right equipment and skills to operate the machine for excellent results. You don’t need to hire a professional.
What is the Appropriate Way to Dispose of Waste Powder? Is Powder Harmful to the Environment?
Powder coating is environment-friendly. It is non-hazardous to the environment. However, always confirm with the manufacturer’s directions on the package for guidelines in case of exceptions. You can dispose of waste powder like any other environment -friendly product.
What Differences Exist Between Liquid Painting and Powder Coating?
| Liquid Painting | Powder Coating |
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The Powder Fails to Stick to the Surface. What Could Be the Reason?
The possible reasons why the powder fails to stick to the surface are:
- Loss of voltage output; hence the particles don’t get charged.
- In case the excess quantity of powder sticks on the PTFE tube walls, the charge potential is significantly reduced.
Can I Powder Coat Over a Liquid Painted Surface?
No, you cannot. If you powder coat over a liquid painted surface, the paint will come out over time. The color will peel off because of the following reasons:
- Liquid pigments are vulnerable to peeling; therefore, when they peel, the powder paint will go.
- The layer of the liquid paint such as popular spray paint brands creates a barrier preventing the powder coat from adhering to the surface.
To successfully coat a surface that has dry liquid paint:
- Peel off the dry liquid paint
- Smoothen the surface
- Clean the surface
- Powder coat the surface
What Sets Apart Powder Coating from Liquid Painting?
Environmental factors. Powder coating is environment-friendly. On the contrary, liquid painting is hazardous to the environment. Additionally, powder coats last longer than liquid paints.
Is Powder Coating Worthy?
Yes. Compared to liquid paint, powder coating can withstand extreme conditions making them durable products. Powder coating is worth every penny.
What Next?
We have provided you with everything you need to know about the powder coating devices. The information shared in this article is the basis for finding the best powder coating guns for 2021. Use the tips shared here to make informed decisions on which powder coating gun best suits your needs.
