THE UNICOTE PROCESS UniPost poles are finished using a thermosetting polyester powder coat process. The UniCote Polyester Powder Coat Process is accomplished by sending the product through three main stages.    Stage one is cleaning and surface preparation for powder application. This is accomplished by use of a four wheel shot blast system, designed for cleaning aluminum and steel poles. The process removes contaminated surface layers, oxides, mill scale, burns, scratches, and surface irregularities. The process also provides an anchor pattern for better adhesion of the applied coating.       Stage two is the application of powder. The powder used is a TGIC polyester specially formulated for UniPost poles. It is made up of polymers, pigments, and fillers that form a fine dry powder for electrostatic application. The electrostatic application is performed automatically by negative charging of the powder at high voltage, low amperage, and electrically grounding the pole. This creates a magnetic effect and enables the powder to be applied consistently and uniformly to all exposed surfaces of the pole.   Stage three is the curing process, which is accomplished by baking the poles, allowing the agents in the powder formula to bond together and adhere to the pole. UniPost poles cures the powder in a unique manner using a combination of infrared and convection heat. The pole is heated to temperatures exceeding 450 degrees F and the powder is thoroughly cured when it exits the oven.