Harlow-based Gratnells Engineering — a tube laser cutting specialist — has invested in a ‘state of the art’ powder coating line that allows for shorter runs without impacting on a best-quality finish.

The new machine, which includes equipment built by Surface Finishing Group, features a spray booth with sensors to ensure that the Gema spray guns only operate when metal is present in the booth.

The workpieces are given a phosphate wash, rinsed and dried before being sprayed; a heating process that turns the powder into a smooth uniform film is then followed by a cooling to ensure a hard resilient coating and a high-quality finish.

Since its installation, the line has processed a wide variety of items, including railings, doors, windows, automotive parts, industrial machinery and furniture.

Operations director Loic Jones (www.gratnellspowdercoating.com) said: “We decided to invest in a ‘state of the art’ powder coating line and use the latest technology, so we could offer short production runs with the best quality finish to our customer base.”