Powder coating wheels are one of the best ways to enhance the durability and aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. But NOT all powder coating services operate at the same level of expertise and professionalism.
For car enthusiasts and alloy wheel owners in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona, understanding this process can transform your wheels from ordinary to extraordinary. But more importantly, it can help you clearly identify who you can trust to do the job right!
The team at The Tempe Auto Spa at 101 Motors was recently tasked with taking the factory alloy wheels of a 2023 Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate Coupe and customizing them with a brilliant satin black powder coat. Our long-time client selected our team due to our quality-focused process for completing luxury auto restyling services.
- More than 30-Years of Experience in Luxury Automotive Restyling – Including Powder Coating Custom Wheels.
- Expertise Carefully Removing and Remounting Tires on Freshly Coated Wheels Without Causing Damage.
- A Multiple-Step Quality Assurance Process to Mitigate Potential Issues, Delays, or Additional Costs.
In this edition of “What’s at The Tempe Auto Spa”, we’ll walk you through the DETAILED PROCESS we took to ensure the powder coat project went off without a hitch.
We’ll also provide some quick facts about this ultimate touring sports coupe, education about powder coat projects, so you’ll learn everything you need to know about this process for protecting your entire wheels.
About the 2023 Aston Martin DBS 770
The 2023 Aston Martin DBS 770 represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance. Bringing together the best of British craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, this vehicle is not just a car; it’s an experience. Designed for the discerning driver, the DBS 770 is tailored to those who crave speed, power, and elegance in one complete package.
The DBS 770 Ultimate is a limited-edition production, with a total of 300 coupes and 199 convertibles put into production. Its sleek lines and aggressive stance make it a visual masterpiece. The front grille, with its bold and assertive design, commands attention. Every curve and contour of the car has been meticulously crafted to create a seamless blend of beauty and aerodynamics.
Engine Power and Specifications
Under the hood of the 2023 Aston Martin DBS 770 lies a beastly 5.2-liter V12 engine. This powerhouse delivers a staggering 770 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful production cars Aston Martin has ever produced. The raw power under the bonnet ensures an exhilarating driving experience that will leave you breathless.
Acceleration and Top Speed
With such immense power, the DBS 770 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. Its top speed of 211 mph makes it a true contender in the world of supercars. Whether on the open road or the racetrack, this car delivers performance that is both thrilling and unparalleled.
Handling and Ride Quality
The DBS 770 isn’t just about straight-line speed. Its advanced suspension system and precise steering make for a driving experience that would make James Bond blush with envy. Whether navigating tight corners or cruising down the highway, the car’s handling is impeccable, providing confidence and control at every turn.
What is Powder Coating?
Powder coating is a dry finishing process that has become extremely popular for a variety of applications. By applying a free-flowing, dry powder to alloy wheels, the process offers a durable, high-quality finish that can significantly improve the appearance and longevity of your wheels. It is an individual service within our Auto Reconditioning and Restyling division.
This type of protection for wheels provides several advantages, including:
- Durability: The coating is resistant to chipping, scratching, and fading.
- Environmental Friendliness: It emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to traditional liquid coatings.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The process is efficient and results in less waste.
Powder Coating the DBS 770 at The Tempe Auto Spa
At The Tempe Auto Spa at 101 Motors, we take a lot of pride in establishing long-lasting relationships with our valued clients. The owner of this beautiful Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate has trusted our team to care for multiple vehicle over the years. As such, it was an easy decision for him to task our team to transform his stock wheels to a custom satin black finish.
Here is how our team completed this project from start to finish.
Step 1: Wheel Inspection
Before the powder coating process, your wheels will be thoroughly inspected for any damage or imperfections. This step ensures that the coating adheres evenly and provides a smooth finish.
At The Tempe Auto Spa, we take an extra measure by attaching the bare rim (without the tire installed) to check for wheel straightness. If we discover that the wheel is bent, we immediately inform our clients so they can purchase a new one prior to the coating process begins.
Step 2: Cleaning & Decontamination
The next step in powder coating alloy wheels is proper preparation. This involves cleaning the wheels thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or embedded brake dust.
Step 3: Strip Tank
If there are any previous coatings or paint on the wheels, they will need to be stripped off using a chemical strip tank. This step ensures that the powder coating will bond directly to the wheel surface.
In the picture below, you can see the end results. All polished aluminum & paint from the OEM rims have been stripped from the wheel. However, the wheel is not 100% ready for powder coating quite yet.
If you look closely, you can still see hazing, and some embedded raw material still bonded to the substrate. In order for powder coating to electrically bond to the wheel – all of this debris must be removed.
Step 4: Media Blast
After the wheels have been stripped and cleaned, they will go through a media blast process. This involves using small particles to roughen up the surface and remove any minor surface flaws. It’s commonly referred to as sandblasting or bead blasting and ensures smooth surfaces prior to coating.
A popular blast media is aluminum oxide, which is often used because of its general strength and effectiveness. It’s durable and stronger than a lot of other blast media, like glass beads or garnet, which are less abrasive.
Step 5: Final Wash
At this point, the wheel undergoes a final wash – which removes residue left behind from the media blasting process.
Step 6: Pre-Heating
Once the wheel is dry, it will undergo a pre-heating process in an industrial oven to ensure that the wheel is fully dry. However, it also serves as a critical step in our Quality Assurance program to avoid outgassing.
Outgassing occurs during the curing process, when trapped gases in the metal are released during final heating. The purpose of pre-heating is to release all those gases to reduce the potential of bubbles.
Step 7: Application of Powder
This process is much different than traditional rim painting or coating. Once the wheels are prepared, the powder is applied using an electrostatic gun. This is completed in a debris free paint booth – to reduce the potential of contamination. The charged particles adhere to the electrically grounded wheel, ensuring an even coat.
Step 8: Heat Curing
After the powder is applied, the wheels are placed in a curing oven. The heat causes the powder to melt and form a smooth, hard finish. This step is crucial for achieving the durability and aesthetic appeal that powder coating is known for.
Step 9: Final Inspection
The final step is a thorough inspection to ensure the coating has adhered properly and the finish is flawless. Any imperfections are addressed before the wheels are deemed ready for use.
At this point, the tires are then installed on the powder coated wheels, professional balanced, then installed and torqued to factory specifications.
Explaining the Science Behind Powder Coating
The science behind this process is simple. The dry powder used in this process consists of finely ground particles of pigment and resin that are electrostatically charged. This creates a bond between the powder particles and the alloy surface, resulting in a smooth, even finish.
Unlike traditional liquid paint, powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form.
The coating sticks to metal through a process called electrostatic spray deposition (ESD). In ESD, the powder gets an electrostatic charge from an electrode in a spray gun. The metal part is grounded and takes on a negative charge, while the positively charged powder particles are drawn to it. This attraction creates a solid bond between the powder and the metal.
The bond gets even stronger thanks to the chemical changes happening during the curing process. The powder goes into a force cure oven at about 400°F, where it melts and gels around the metal. When it comes out, the part looks shiny and durable, usually around 99.9% cured.
Powder coating is a great way to get a chip-resistant finish – which is impossible with regular paint on custom rims. Just keep in mind that the material needs to be heat-resistant and able to hold an electrostatic charge, so it won’t work with everything.
Metals are usually the best choice for powder coating to produce a durable finish. These metals include steel alloys, stainless steel, galvanized steel, mild steel, aluminum, electroplated steel, and magnesium.
Benefits of Powder Coating
This type of protection for wheels provides several advantages, including:
- Durability: The coating is resistant to chipping, scratching, and fading.
- Environmental Friendliness: It emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to traditional liquid coatings.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The process is efficient and results in less waste.
Why Powder Coating is the Best Choice for Alloy Wheels
When it comes to protecting and beautifying alloy wheels, powder coating stands out. It’s not just about looks; it’s about providing a strong barrier against the elements and daily wear and tear. For vehicle owners in Phoenix and Tempe, powder coating offers an extra layer of protection against the harsh Arizona sun and road conditions.
Enhancing Durability
Powder coating creates a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint. This increased durability means your wheels will be better protected from road debris, weather conditions, and even minor impacts.
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the main reasons car enthusiasts opt for powder coatings is the variety of finishes available. Whether you’re looking for a matte black or other satin finish, gloss black or other glossy colors, or metallic finish, this process can provide the look you desire. Plus, you can choose from multiple color options – as they are available in an array of colors.
Cost-Effective Maintenance
Powder-coated wheels are easier to clean and maintain. The coating resists dirt and grime, making it simpler to keep your wheels looking brand new with minimal effort. Generally, the coating of wheels in this method will last longer than ceramic coatings.
And when you weigh the cost of powder coating vs coating over a 10-year period – you’ll typically get a better ROI by using quality powder coating services.
How to Choose the Right Powder Coating Color
When selecting a color and finish for your powder-coated wheels, consider the following:
- Vehicle Color: Choose a color that complements your car’s paint.
- Personal Style: Your wheels should reflect your personality and style. Do you prefer matte finishes or gloss finishes? Are these for track vehicles or truck wheels?
- Trends: While it’s essential to be true to your taste, keeping an eye on current trends can help you make a more informed decision.
Popular Finishes
Some of the most popular finishes include:
- Matte: Offers a modern, understated look.
- Gloss: Provides a shiny, polished appearance.
- Metallic: Adds a touch of sparkle and sophistication.
Customization Options
At The Tempe Auto Spa @ 101 Motors, we believe the sky is the limit. This is why our powder coating services offer customization options, allowing you to create a unique look for your wheels. From custom colors to intricate designs, the possibilities are endless.
Maintenance Tips for Powder Coated Wheels
While powder coated wheels are extremely durable and strong, it’s still possible for them to get dirty. Brake dust, road debris, mud, and other contaminants can significantly impact the aesthetic appeal of your freshly coated wheels. However, here is something you may not know. The dirtier the wheels get – especially with mud, the more likely your tire/wheel combination will fall out of balance.
To avoid those high-speed wobbles and to ensure your powder coated wheels keep looking fresh for years, here are a few simple maintenance tips.
Regular Cleaning
Keep your powder-coated wheels looking their best with regular cleaning. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
*PRO TIP – Do NOT use acid-based wheel cleaners – or iron removers that are not pH neutral. And ABOVE ALL – do not use any chemicals on your wheels if they are warm to the touch. This will result in staining.
Add a Ceramic Coating
Applying a protective coating like those offered by Ceramic Pro can help preserve the finish and make cleaning easier. Products designed specifically for powder-coated surfaces can provide an extra layer of protection.
Avoiding Damage
Be mindful of curbs and potholes to prevent chipping and scratching. While powder coating is durable, it’s not indestructible. Treat your wheels with care to ensure they stay in top condition.
Wrapping it Up
Powder coating your alloy wheels is an excellent way to enhance the look and durability of your vehicle. With the right preparation, application, and maintenance, your wheels can stay looking new for years to come.
For car enthusiasts and alloy wheel owners in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona, powder coating offers the perfect blend of style and protection. Whether you’re looking to improve the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle or seeking a cost-effective way to maintain your wheels, powder coating is the way to go.
The Tempe Auto Spa at 101 Motors proudly offers powder coatings solutions as a part of our Auto Restyling and Refurbishing solutions. We can powder coat wheels, suspension components, engine blocks, or any other performance component.
If you’re thinking about a cost-effective way of restyling and protecting your wheels or other parts, fill out the contact form and one of our sales professionals will reach out to you quickly.