Newbie Rim Question, What's powder coating?

[TRD-CELICA-GT02]

I heard people talk about powder coating their rims. What is it exactly and can someone please explain the process. I know it has something to do with coloring the rims. Can someone elaborate? Is it permanent?

[Camry2000]

The special powder is sprayed on with a gun, similiar to spray painting. Then the powder is cured by baking it in a special oven. The heat cures the powder, insuring a strong long lasting bond.

[BB_GT01]

Camry2000 is on the mark. Its just an alternate form of paint. It is usually a lot more durable than paint that is air dried or chemically cured (like an epoxy). Powder can be heat cured or cured with a UV light, like a dentist does for new fillings.
Powder coatings are often used on things like appliances and bicycles, also. That is where you would have seen this type of finish, other than wheels.