What Temp Is Cerakote® Cured?

Cerakote^® is renowned for superior performance in many industrial applications. It safeguards equipment, tools, and components that endure harsh conditions without compromising performance. This finish offers abrasion, chemical, corrosion, and impact resistance. 

With proper application and maintenance, Cerakote coating can last for many years. Its durability depends on the type of Cerakote used, the application process, and the conditions to which the object is exposed. Achieving excellent results depends on curing the Cerakote at the specified temperature and for the correct duration.

Understanding Cerakote

Cerakote is a high-performance ceramic-based coating applied on metals, wood, plastics, and polymers to provide wear and corrosion protection. It is commonly used to safeguard parts that face harsh conditions, such as exhaust systems and engine components. Other applications of Cerakote in industries include aerospace equipment, automotive parts, audio electronics, fitness equipment, kitchen and bath fixtures, marine equipment, and medical equipment.

Cerakote provides various benefits:

• Wear resistance: Cerakote can withstand wear and tear, allowing objects to maintain their appearance and functionality for a long time. 
• Corrosion resistance: This coating shields the material from moisture exposure and prevents rust formation.
• Chemical resistance: Cerakote can withstand exposure to various chemicals to ensure the longevity of the surface in harsh conditions.
• Toughness: Cerakote makes surfaces resistant to scratches to maintain the integrity of coated parts.
• Strength: An effective layer of protection enhances impact resistance and reduces the risk of damage, such as dents.
• Heat resistance: Ceramic coatings can withstand extreme temperatures of up to 1,800°F.
• Improved aesthetics: Ceramic coating prevents fading and repels water, dirt, and grime.

Cerakote Curing Temperature

Proper curing ensures the coating reaches the maximum hardness and durability. Curing is done in an oven or a heat chamber at a controlled temperature and duration. The curing temperature varies depending on the color and substrate:

• H-series: The H-series should be applied to metal substrates and kept at a standard curing temperature of 250°F (121°C) for two hours.
• Elite series: The Elite series is suitable for metal substrates at a standard curing temperature of 300°F (148°C) for one hour.
• Flash curing: This option is useful for applying stencils or when applying multiple coats and curing at 150-180°F (65-82°C) for 10-25 minutes. 
• Other substrates: Plastic, polymer, and composites should cure at 150-180°F (65° – 82°C) for two hours. 

Follow these tips to see better results:

• Check for hot spots in the oven that may degrade the Cerakote.
• Avoid placing coated parts into direct heat.
• Opt for convection ovens for consistent heat distribution.

Factors That Affect Curing

Proper curing is essential to achieve the full benefits of Cerakote. Oven curing is the most common method and involves placing the coated item in an oven set to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature. Maintain this Cerakote temperature for the recommended time to ensure uniform heating and curing.

Infrared curing is a faster alternative that is useful for larger items or when time is a factor. Once cured, Cerakote may benefit from additional treatments, such as buffing, polishing, and top coat application, to enhance its appearance and durability. 

The coating’s thickness affects its appearance, performance, and protective qualities. A thin coating provides inadequate coverage, potentially allowing the underlying material to corrode. A thick coating is more likely to chip, making it less durable. 

Advantages of Using Abrasives From 10X Engineered Materials

Cerakote may show signs of wear over time, signaling that you will need to remove and reapply the coating. It is essential to use a solvent that doesn’t damage the surface. An abrasive like aluminum oxide or superoxalloy is ideal for use in a sandblaster. The ideal grit size is 70 to 120, with a blasting pressure of 35 to 70 PSI for aluminum oxide, whereas superoxalloy abrasives will perform over a wider pressure range and can safely exceed 110 psi because they are stronger, tempered abrasive particles. Clean the surface with acetone after blasting to prepare it for a fresh coat.

The best blasting media for Cerakote is a superoxalloy abrasive formulated to remove the coating without damaging the material. It is tempered and tough, so it can be reused. They create less dust, which enhances worker safety. Our blast abrasives are cost-effective, high-performance, and eco-friendly.

Count on Superoxalloy Abrasives for Cerakote Removal

EpiX MP is the go-to product for our customers who apply Cerakote. It has the ideal particle size distribution to remove Cerakote without damaging the substrate. EpiX-MP removes Cerakote better than other abrasives to deliver a clean finish.

Call us at (260) 209-1207  to find out more about our blasting media products, or fill out our contact form to discuss your sandblasting applications.