How to Powder Coat Deer Antlers

Powder coating traditionally serves as a finish for metallic parts. It’s applied electrostatically using a spray gun and then heated at a specified time and temperature in an oven. Since the production of ultralow-temperature-cure (ULC) and low-temperature-cure (LTC) powder coatings, the use of this finish has expanded to non-traditional substrates such as glass, wood, and other organic materials, such as deer antlers.

For nonconductive materials, the electrostatic charge doesn’t transfer to the ground, and the powder will tend not to stick unless the material is preheated during surface preparation, sprayed hot, and cured at an elevated temperature.

Proper Surface Preparation of Antlers With Abrasive Blasting

Sandblasting helps remove any previously applied coatings or other contaminants. When blasting organic substrates, such as deer antlers that may be etched or altered, it’s best to use low blasting pressures to avoid damage. In many cases, a soft abrasive is the most suitable option. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is among the softest blasting media options available for removing dirt and other contaminants; however, it does not remove material as efficiently or cover large areas as quickly as harder abrasives. Harder blasting media, such as aluminum oxide and garnet, can clean the antlers but are likely to leave embedded material behind or damage the surface.

Using high-performance abrasives, such as superoxalloys, provides better quality and is safer for users. Superoxalloy abrasives are made from mineral wool insulation and are used in various sandblasting applications, including less common ones such as surface preparation for deer antler powder coating.

When used correctly, superoxalloy abrasive media is low-dusting and reduces particle embedment within the substrate. It results in a surface that offers better coating performance. Superoxalloy abrasives are specifically engineered for optimal performance, and since they are made from polymorphous tempered particles. The use of superoxalloy abrasives for your surface preparation enhances the performance of any coating applied to the surface after blasting.

Powder Coating Process for Non-Metallic Substrates

Deer antler powder coating requires an electrostatic application process that involves charging the particles so they can adhere to the surface. For the process to work on organic substrates like antlers, they must be given conductivity through preheating, grounding techniques, and conductivity additives.

Preparation

To aid adhesion of the coating, the antlers must be free of dirt, dust, and other residues. Sandblasting is an effective method of pretreatment to remove these contaminants. After blasting, clean the surface with compressed air and wipe it clean with an anti-static cloth.

Preheating

Raising the antlers’ temperature before application improves their conductivity. A minute of infrared (IR) preheat usually raises the temperature enough to release surface moisture. The powder application should be carried out during preheating, typically between 2 and 4 minutes.

Application

Powder coating antlers in an automated booth allows a homogeneous layer build-up, saves the powder, and reduces outgassing caused by excessively thick layers. Using electrodes can also offer control over layer thickness to prevent powder overflow. With LTC and ULC powder coatings, the most important aspect is to heat the powder up to a melt/flow point quickly.

Curing

IR curing typically takes five to seven minutes. One popular method for heat-sensitive substrates is also UV curing, which requires less energy and heat than other methods. The moisture in the antlers will blister out and appear as blow holes in the coating. Sand the coating and repeat the operation until you are satisfied with the finish.

Tips for Achieving the Best Finish for Antlers

Common issues that can arise during the powder coating process include uneven coverage, outgassing, and poor adhesion. You can prevent some of these challenges by:

• Using a grounding rod to boost electrostatic attraction.
• Spraying hot to create a more reliable coating.
• Curing the first coat in a conventional oven ensures the second coat adheres more easily.
• Using special tape or plugs to prevent unwanted coating adhesion.
• Apply at least two coats to ensure a full finish.

With the right methods and our EpiX superoxalloy abrasives, you can achieve better and more consistent powder coating results.

Choose the Right Superoxalloy Abrasive for Sandblasting Antlers

10X Engineered Materials provides superoxalloy abrasives, which are the industry’s best all-around option for sandblasting deer antlers. EpiX abrasive media is recyclable and doesn’t produce waste or damage to the surface of the antlers.  If you need more information on using our products when customizing deer antlers, ask your question through our online form or call us at 888-707-5034. When you’re ready to use our products, you can find them at distributors across the U.S or order EpiX directly from our website.