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Custom painting on TOP of a powdercoated m/c tank

My question is in regards to powdercoating, and whether a custom painted mural (using acrylic enamels) can be put on top of the powdercoating. I've had conflicting info and would like some expert advice. One painter told me it couldn't be done, and another said it could. I am airbrushing m/c tanks, and have a potential job pending, but the owner said he was thinking of having the frame and tank powdercoated, then have me do the mural. IF this can be done, what is the process? Any help is appreciated.

Colleen Godfrey
- Medford, Oregon
2003

Hi Colleen!

I have seen many types of artwork performed with success upon powdercoated surfaces. To be successful, you will need to paint a few panels with the same type of powder you will be working upon. Remember that powdercoating is still resin based as is liquid coating. There are many powder types and they will respond differently with each type of paint you are using. Many times, the final finish on a motorcycle is an acrylic clearcoat. The is a very hard finish and is somewhat prone to chipping and marring. It may be more difficult to apply any artwork upon since there may be less intercoat adhesion.

Most companies apply their decals upon the basecoat and then apply their clearcoat over them with success too, however these decals are made for high temperatures. Your acrylic enamels will not survive the baking process if you were to apply the clear powder over it. You would have to apply your paint over the final powder topcoat. Maybe you can change your paint base and then apply the clear over your mural?

Again, the most important thing you can do is to try your work on sample pieces and make some destructive tests before you attempt painting on the actual surface.Try a sample with clear over it, bake it and see what happens. Try lower temperatures and longer cycle times.

Lastly, remember that most motorcycle manufacturers apply their pinstriping in the same manner as you will be applying your murals. Good Luck,

Bob Utech
Benson, Minnesota
2003