The Powder Coating Workshop
The Powder Coating Workshop is a dimly lit area of the factory dedicated to cleaning, coating, and drying metal components used in manufacturing. I think its really a place of extremes. On the coating side, temperatures soar to around 200°C, necessary to fuse the powdered color onto the metal. Despite the presence of four air conditioners and two fans, the coating worker Li said to me he must endure conditions of around 45°C, all while wearing a heavy protective suit and mask to avoid inhaling powder particles. In contrast, I felt the drying side relatively cool, in fact arguably the most comfortable area in the factory, as it is shaded and equipped with numerous fans to aid in drying the coated metal.
The Young Workers
At the drying and cleaning line, most workers are young. This is a rarity in the traditional manufacturing industry, where the average worker is typically 40 to 50 years old due to the dusty, heavy, and dirty nature of the job. But the drying and cleaning line is different, it’s cooler, and shaded. The boy captured on camera, standing under the light, is barely 20 years old, according to his manager. Initially shy, he assumed my camera meant I was there to supervise his work. But when he realized I was taking his picture, he flashed a confident “V” pose with a smile.
I really really liked his smile, but when I returned, the drying line had stopped. Other workers explained it only operates three days a week as the factory is transitioning to a new integrated drying system. The factory consolidate work within those days to reduce variable labor costs.