The difference

How the two finishes compare

Close view of a thick, textured powdercoat finish on a steel brac

Powdercoat

A thick, impact-resistant coating that builds high-wear coverage. It suits parts that need durable protection against scuffs, knocks, and daily handling.

Close view of a thin Cerakote finish on a machined component, cri

Cerakote

A thin-film ceramic coating that holds tight dimensional clearance. It tolerates heat well and suits parts where fit and thermal stability matter.

Why choose one over the other

Choose powdercoat when the part needs thick, high-wear coverage. Choose Cerakote when clearance is tight, the part sees heat, or you need a thin finish that keeps dimensions close to spec. Tell us your project and we will help you choose.

The process

Six steps from bare part to cured finish

Good preparation decides how well powdercoat bonds and cures. Each step below builds on the last.

01 Degrease

Remove oil, grease, and contaminants so the coating can bond to clean metal.

02 Outgas

Heat the part to drive off trapped moisture and gases that could cause pinholes.

03 Abrasive Blast

Blast the surface to create a uniform profile that gives the powder a firm grip.

04 Masking

Cover threads, mating faces, and areas that must stay bare to keep fits accurate.

05 Electrostatic Spray

Charge the powder and spray it evenly so it clings to every surface before curing.

06 Cure

Bake the part at the specified temperature so the powder flows, melts, and hardens into a finished coat.

Not sure which finish fits?

Tell us what you are coating and how it will be used. We will talk through the options with you.