Choosing the Right Powder Coating Gloves for Safety and Performance

Choosing the Right Powder Coating Gloves

Powder coating is a process of applying a decorative and protective finish to a wide range of materials and products. The powder used for powder coating is a mixture of finely ground particles of pigment, resin, and additives that is electrostatically applied onto a surface as a free-floating, dry powder.

Once applied, the powder coated item then goes through a curing process in a curing oven where it forms a "skin." The powder melts, flows, chemically reacts, and transforms into a smooth, evenly coated finish.

Why Proper Gloves Are Essential

Powder coating requires proper protective gear, especially gloves. The powder materials can irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. Proper gloves create a protective barrier between the skin and potential irritants.

Choosing the right powder coating gloves ensures safety and high performance when powder coating. The gloves prevent skin contact with chemical powders while allowing dexterity and movement.

Features to Look For

There are a few key features to look for when selecting powder coating gloves:

• Chemical resistance - Gloves should be resistant to the chemicals present in powder coatings like epoxies, polyesters, acrylics, and urethanes.
• Heat protection - Gloves must withstand the high temperatures used in curing powder coated items in ovens.
• Non-stick surface - A non-stick glove surface prevents powder adherence and makes the gloves easy to clean.
• Comfort and flexibility - The gloves should be comfortable with adequate dexterity for tasks like holding parts during powder coating.
• Long cuffs - Long cuffs protect forearms and prevent powder from going up sleeves.

Types of Powder Coating Gloves

There are a few types of gloves commonly used for powder coating:

PVC Coated Gloves

PVC or vinyl gloves are made of cotton or fabric dipped in liquid PVC for flexibility. PVC coated gloves offer very good chemical and heat resistance. They have fair abrasion resistance and a comfortable fit.

Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves are made of synthetic nitrile butadiene rubber. They have excellent chemical resistance and protect well against oils, greases and some solvents. Nitrile gloves withstand temperatures up to 350°F safely.

Latex Gloves

Latex powder coating gloves provide mediocre chemical resistance but are highly flexible and comfortable. They feature a great grip and sufficient abrasion resistance.

Leather and Kevlar Gloves

Leather gloves treated with Kevlar offer very good heat, cut and abrasion resistance. These durable gloves are also quite flexible and comfortable for extended wear.

Proper Use of Powder Coating Gloves

Using powder coating gloves correctly ensures optimal protection and performance:

• Inspect gloves thoroughly before use to check for defects.
• Select the right size for a proper fit. Ill-fitting gloves lower dexterity and safety.
• Clean contaminated gloves immediately to prevent material buildup.
• Allow gloves to air dry after cleaning before continuing use.
• Replace old and damaged gloves immediately.
• Always wear arm length gloves to protect skin from exposure.
• Follow all specifications from the manufacturer.

Maintaining Powder Coating Gloves

Proper maintenance preserves glove integrity and working life. Follow these glove care tips:

• Check expiry dates and storage conditions from the manufacturer.
• Store unused gloves properly sealed in cool, dry storage areas.
• Discard gloves with tears, holes or irreversible material degradation.
• Wash gloves without damaging the material. Follow washing methods approved by the manufacturer.
• Replace gloves as per the manufacturer's recommendations or after observable decline in integrity.

The Right Choice Ensures Safety

Powder coating opens workers up to health and safety risks from chemical and heat exposure. Choosing high quality powder coating gloves designed for the job is essential to mitigate these risks.

The ideal powder coating gloves protect against workplace hazards while allowing the dexterity to perform tasks efficiently. Matching glove specifications to working conditions and requirements ensures optimal protection, performance and productivity.

FAQs

What are some common materials used for powder coating gloves?

The most common glove materials used for powder coating are: PVC coated gloves, nitrile gloves, latex gloves, and leather/Kevlar gloves. Each material offers different benefits in terms of chemical resistance, heat protection, flexibility, grip, comfort and durability.

How do I clean powder coating residue off gloves?

Carefully remove excess powder with a soft brush or cloth first. Use a mild soap solution, avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Gently scrub gloves with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. Allow gloves to fully air dry before reuse. Check with manufacturer cleaning guidelines.

How often should powder coating gloves be replaced?

Replace powder coating gloves at the first signs of wear and tear such as thinning material, holes or loss of integrity in protecting hands and arms. Also follow the manufacturer's expiration dates and recommended replacement guidelines based on frequency of use.

Can household rubber gloves be used for powder coating?

Household rubber gloves do not provide adequate protection for powder coating. They lack the necessary material technology, specifications and approvals meant for industrial use. Only use gloves designed specifically powder coating to ensure proper protection and performance.