The Cerakote Process: Step-by-Step
Glock 19 Gen 5 W/ Agency Arms Compensator
Understanding the Cerakote Process: A Deep Dive into the Coating Revolution
Cerakote has rapidly become a go-to finish for firearms, knives, and various tactical gear, prized for its durability, resistance, and customization. But what exactly goes into creating this high-performance coating? In this blog post, we’ll explore the Cerakote process from start to finish, offering insight into the steps that make it a leading choice for those seeking both protection and aesthetic appeal.
What is Cerakote?
Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating known for its superior hardness, abrasion resistance, and protection against corrosion and chemicals. Developed and manufactured by NIC Industries, Cerakote is applied in a thin layer to enhance and protect surfaces, particularly metals, ceramics, and polymers.
The Cerakote Process: Step-by-Step
1. Preparation and Cleaning
The first and most crucial step in the Cerakote process is preparation. The item to be coated—whether it's a firearm, knife, or other gear—must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure proper adhesion of the Cerakote.
Degreasing: Any oils, grease, or residues are removed using degreasers or ultrasonic cleaners. This step is essential to ensure that the Cerakote bonds properly with the surface.
Abrasive Blasting: The item is then blasted with a fine abrasive media, such as aluminum oxide. This creates a rough surface profile that improves the mechanical bond between the Cerakote and the substrate.
2. Masking
Once the item is prepared, masking is performed to protect areas that should not be coated. This involves applying tape or specialized masking materials to cover parts of the item where the coating is not desired.
Precision Masking: For intricate designs or parts with tight tolerances, precise masking is crucial. This ensures that only the intended areas are coated, and the finish is applied uniformly.
3. Application of Cerakote
With the item prepped and masked, the Cerakote application can begin. The coating is applied using either an airbrush or a spray gun.
Mixing: Cerakote is a two-part system that includes a base and a hardener. The two components are mixed just before application to ensure the coating performs at its best.
Spraying: The mixed Cerakote is applied in thin, even layers. Multiple coats may be applied depending on the desired finish and the item’s specifications. The application process requires careful technique to avoid runs, drips, or uneven coverage.
4. Curing
After application, the Cerakote needs to cure to achieve its full strength and durability. Curing is done in an oven at a controlled temperature.
Heat Curing: Cerakote requires baking at temperatures typically between 250°F and 300°F (120°C to 150°C). The curing process usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the specific Cerakote product and thickness of the application.
Cooling: Once the curing cycle is complete, the item is allowed to cool slowly. This helps to avoid any potential warping or deformation.
5. Inspection and Quality Control
After curing, the item undergoes thorough inspection and quality control checks.
Visual Inspection: Inspectors look for any defects such as uneven coverage, bubbles, or imperfections in the finish.
Functional Testing: For items like firearms, functional testing is conducted to ensure that the coating hasn’t affected the item's performance or operation.
6. Final Touches
If any issues are detected during the inspection, touch-ups or additional finishing steps are performed. This may include re-masking and re-coating specific areas, or buffing out minor blemishes.
Final Assembly: For items that were disassembled for coating, final assembly takes place. This is the last chance to ensure everything fits and functions as intended.
Why Cerakote?
Cerakote’s multi-step process ensures a high-quality finish that stands up to the demands of high-wear applications. Its combination of ceramic and polymer properties results in a coating that is not only visually appealing but also offers unmatched durability and protection.
Advantages
Exceptional Hardness: The ceramic particles provide a tough, abrasion-resistant surface.
Corrosion and Chemical Resistance: Cerakote excels in environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or harsh conditions is a concern.
Customization: With a broad range of colors and finishes, Cerakote allows for extensive personalization and aesthetic choices.
Thin Profile: The thin application ensures minimal impact on the item's dimensions while delivering robust protection.
Conclusion
The Cerakote process is a blend of science, art, and precision engineering. From meticulous preparation to the final curing phase, each step is designed to ensure a superior finish that delivers on durability, functionality, and style. Whether you’re protecting a valuable firearm or personalizing a favorite knife, understanding the Cerakote process highlights why this coating is a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
