Cerakote doesn't require specific substrate temperatures. It's applied .0005" to .001" thick.

But honestly, I know it's applied and cured correctly from testing so that's not an issue whatsoever. Whether by sanding, scraping or with aircraft stripper, which does nothing to Cerakote, my results are that Cerakote is far superior to powder coat which I consider garbage.

Jim, I have a Trident digital controller so I know the thermocouple is working. I also have a Fluke temp gun and check oven and part temps when finished.

The substrate temp does not appear critical: From the Cerakote application guide: If the substrate material is heat sensitive (such as plastic, anodized or wood) then a cure for 2 hours at 150 F – 180 F is adequate.

anything that is applied 5 ten thousandths of an inch at room temp, put in a warm oven which then takes .5 to 1 hour to get up to cure temp and then bakes for 1 to 2 hours at cure temp

Why not put the parts in the oven before you turn it on, and save the 30 minute re-heat time?

That is a good question Graham. it has to do with gloss level. You vary the amount of catalyst to adjust gloss level and you can also do that with temp, and time to get to cure temp. My results are exactly how I want them now using the parameters I have set. I could do a test, the worst case is I scuff and shoot the parts again if they are too matte. It would be nice to hang parts in a cold oven, I will say that.

I have a lot of black to do in 2 weeks. Engine tin which I always do 2 coats. I'll try it then.