PPG develops low-energy paint process for automotive OEMs

Pittsburgh-based PPG has developed a low-energy paint process for automotive OEMs that can help reduce energy consumption by up to 39 percent by permitting a significantly lower curing temperature and faster flash and dehydration times, the company reports.

The system, developed in collaboration with Dürr Systems, features a waterborne crosslinking chemistry that cures at 176 degrees F—compared to 284 degrees F for current systems—and can reduce flash and dehydration requirements by several minutes per vehicle.

The new system can enable OEMs to reduce the physical footprint of their paint shop operations because fewer ovens are needed and cure temperatures are lower. In addition, it allows coating of metal and heat-sensitive parts such as plastics and composites at the same time.