An automatic spray coating line created as a brand new design effectively implemented within a pre-existing working plant can truly revolutionise most finishing processes. How? By offering a number of tangible (and measurable) advantages compared to traditional techniques (especially manual processes) and ensuring a fast return on investment. In this feature, we will review the parts that make up an automatic spray coating line and explain how this type of solution improves end product quality and reduces operating costs.
Automatic spray-coating line set-up
By working in synergy, automatic spray coating machines can create simple or complex lines, with flat and vertical configurations, including elliptical designs and sophisticated anthropomorphic robots. The whole system is equipped with advanced software to ensure total control over the process and, consequently, the best possible performance in any use condition.
An automatic spray coating line can be used for finishing surfaces made of different materials, such as wood, ceramic, metal, glass, fibre cement and plastic. Depending on the application, specific process parameters and interchangeable tools are required.
Without going into too much detail, we analyze the types of available spray machines:
- Oscillating spray coaters, with one or two arms: these machines meet the needs of manufacturers who need to process small-, medium- and also large-sized production volumes.
- Rotary or elliptical spray coaters: perfect for customers looking for maximum performance in terms of productivity and speed, without ever compromising on quality. The high number of guns in these spray coaters allows for uniformity of application.
- Coating robots: these automation solutions guarantee high outout and at the same time very high finishing quality. In particular, robots that work horizontally ensure flexibility, speed and precision. Configurations with one or two robots operating in stationary load or oscillating mode are possible. Thanks to computer technology and tracking functions, two robots are able to work simultaneously on the same item, dramatically reducing processing times.
For further details on the make-up of a spray coating line, find out about the dedicated Cefla solutions for this technology.
Advantages of an automatic spray-coating line
Let's now review the advantages of installing an automated spray coating line, especially when compared to using manual methods.
As can be easily understood, the automated spray coating technique in itself guarantees greater transfer efficiency and consequently - lower paint consumption (and related costs). In addition, it improves the quality of the end product, not to mention the level of homogeneity that can be achieved even on complex surface designs and the possibility of always processing deliveries in predictable times.
Automation adds extra benefits to spray coating techniques: just think that even by employing qualified personnel, it will not always be possible to achieve the coating quality standards required by customers. There are too many variables that could affect the performance of a finishing line based on manual workmanship. An employer's most experienced operators, for example, could become ill and be temporarily replaced by less skilled personnel. All of this often leads not only to inferior results but also to wasted paint, time and substrates (therefore, to a waste of money).
These potential critical issues could all be resolved by introducing automated spraying equipment.
Why switch from manual to automatic coating?
Find out how to optimise your paint coating process
Results and benefits of automated spray coating
Regardless of the industry you operate in (automotive, furniture or consumer durables), choosing equipment to create an automated spray coating line can lead to several benefits also in terms of output:
- Guaranteed high quality finishes and consistency, also based on specific customer requests;
- Flexibility in every phase of the process: possibility of processing small batches efficiently, including customisations and special processes;
- Transfer efficiency and productivity: essential for securing good margins. This is thanks to software solutions and the IoT (Internet of Things), which help monitor processes and optimise every step, while patented technologies increase productivity;
- Constant innovation, thanks to the development and integration of increasingly high performance and effective tools and methods into automatic spray coating lines.
These factors ensure greater competitiveness in a market that requires shorter delivery times, lower costs and better quality.
Why choose Cefla for your first automatic spray coating line?
What do companies wishing to make a leap in quality, evolving from small-scale businesses to more industrialised organisations, really need?
Clearly, an initial investment is required. Enough space is then needed to install the new machinery and at least one suitably trained operator is required to supervise the process and load and unload the workpieces.
Cefla Finishing specialises in the design and creation of solutions capable of responding to any need expressed by companies throughout their upgrading process. For organisations that are taking their first steps in the world of automatic spray coating, we recommend Prima EVO, our one- or two-arm oscillating spray coater, which can be used as a “stand alone” machine, i.e. not requiring the installation of complex systems, and operated by one or two workers for manual loading and unloading of workpieces. This machine can also be easily integrated into complete and higher-output lines.
Perfect for enabling quick colour change-over and managing small production batches, the machine stands out for its extreme user-friendliness and, thanks also to its affordable cost, it is an ideal solution for a successful transition from manual to automatic spray coating in a simple and intuitive way.
Prima EVO is only one item out of the wide range of products and services that make of Cefla Finishing the go-to partner for not only larger companies, but also smaller players who are aiming to grow and become more structured. Would you like to know more? Contact one of our experts and find out about all the technologies and expertise that we can make available to you for your business!
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An automatic spray coating line created as a brand new design effectively implemented within a pre-existing working plant can truly revolutionise
