Latest developments in automotive finishing

Nowadays reduction in emissions, energy consumption and investment are the main driving forces behind the development and implementation of painting processes in automotive industries. In recent decade novel technologies such as primerless and 3-wet paint system, waterborne and UV (Ultra Violet) cure coatings and etc. have been introduced by different automobile manufacturers in order to meet the demands. In this paper 3-wet, primerless and UV cure technologies are discussed. In 3-wet system, curing ovens are replaced by intermediate dryers and primer sanding stage is also eliminated, in primerless technology function of primer layer is adopted by base coat. Consequently, the length of finishing line is significantly diminished in both systems. In UV cure technology, the coating is cross-linked instantly through a UV-initiated photochemical process in which superior properties are achieved. Primerless and UV cure finishes not only lead to energy and cost saving, but also minimize the VOC emission due to lower solvent consumption.