ipcm n. 87 | May- June 2024

The smart journal for surface treatments

ISSN 2280-6083

ipcm digital on

® Special issue on

www.myipcm.com

ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

2024

INTERNATIONAL PAINT&COATING MAGAZINE

15th Year - Bimonthly N° 87 - MAY/JUNE

AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS

Introducing Alesta® BioCore™ The future of eco-friendly powder coatings for metal substrates Sustainable. Durable. Revolutionary.

Unlock a new era in sustainable design with Alesta® BioCore™, the innovative bio-based powder coating that reduces scope 3 emissions by up to 25%.

Developed from non-food organic waste, our products seamlessly blend environmental responsibility with top-tier performance.

Environmentally Friendly Innovation Using biobased resins derived from non-food, organic waste, Alesta® BioCore™ does not compete with food resources, supporting a more sustainable supply chain.

Proven Excellence As the first in the industry to earn the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification PLUS (ISCC PLUS), Axalta sets the standard for eco-conscious manufacturing.

Equivalent Quality, Lower Emissions Our Alesta® BioCore™ solutions match the quality and properties of traditional polyester resins but with a significant advantage: they enable an average CO2 emissions reduction of 25%.

Our Premium Range: Alesta® SD BioCore™: Architectural SuperDurable Alesta® AP BioCore™: Architectural Alesta® IP BioCore™: Industrial Make the switch today and embrace sustainability without compromise. Alesta® BioCore™ offers a responsible choice for a greener tomorrow.

Learn more: www.axalta.com/biocore

Axalta Powder Coating Systems GmbH Uferstrasse 90 CH-4057 Basel Switzerland +41 61 404 4000 info-ch@axalta.com www.powder.axalta.com

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CONTENTS MAY/JUNE 2024

© AdobeStock

28

© Next Hydraulics

RESEARCH BREAKTHROUGH

32

TU Graz Develops Innovative Coating Against Ice

The Future of Next Hydraulics Between Innovative Industrial Choices and Green Coating Technologies

© AdobeStock

© John Bartelstone

46

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

HOW IT'S COATED

The New York City Library’s ‘Wizard Hat’ Coated with Fluropon® Patina Green

by Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings

05 EDITOR’S LETTER 06 BRAND NEW 10 HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

26 IN MEMORY OF 40 WHERE WE HAVE BEEN 43 SPECIAL ISSUE ON

14 BRAND NEW 20 ASK JOE POWDER

44 BRAND NEW 52 FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

PaintExpo Reconfirmed itself as the World’s Most Important Event for Industrial Coating Technologies

The “Ask an Expert” Column

OF THE MONTH 22 HIGHLIGHT J. Wagner Highlights at PaintExpo 2024

62

ARCHITECTURE&DESIGN

A New Laser Scanner System for Pintarelli Verniciature’s ProgrammingFree, Automatic Powder Coating Plant: a Further Boost to the Quality of its Certified Coatings

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

When Every Detail Matters: La Marzocco’s New Coating Plant

58 HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

From Raw Materials to Applied Colours: ST Powder Coatings at Fuorisalone 2024 to Make Powder Coatings the Stars of Design

72 ADVANCEMENTS

Bio-based Powder Coatings: the Next Frontier for Tackling Scope 3 Emissions?

76 HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

TIGERator - The Ultimate Online Tool for 3D Surface Configuration

THE STABLE ONE

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INDUSTRIAL COATINGS

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MORE?

CONTENTS MAY/JUNE 2024

© Lechler

80

© Pleion

ADVANCEMENTS

Carbon Fibre Coating: Technologies and Solutions to Preserve Performance and Elegance

© SpeXparts

110

98

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

Towards Excellence: Pleion Revolutionises the Coating of its Thermal Collectors with a New Plant

© ipcm / generated with AI

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

SpeXparts: an Italian Company of Excellence in the Production of High-Quality Hoses for the Industrial Painting Sector

82 HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

An Industry at the Service of Design: Trends and Inspirations from Milan Design Week 2024

88 HOW IT'S COATED

AkzoNobel Painting a More Secure Future for Historic Dutch Windmills

90 SCIENCE OUTLOOK

A FEM Approach to Explore the Thermal Dynamics of Steel Parts During Powder Coating Process

134

ON TECHNOLOGY 104 FOCUS Painting Srl Increased the Quality of Its Products by Installing a New Powder Coating Plant and Implementing TORAN 3® Pre-Treatment Technology

COLOUR STUDY

Oregon State Researchers Advance Pigment Chemistry with Moon-Inspired Reddish Magentas

120 BRAND NEW 126 ADVANCEMENTS

Energy Savings Hinge on Pump Selection and Installation

114 ADVANCEMENTS

138 STANDARD&LEGISLATION

116 ADVANCEMENTS

139 MEETING THE INDUSTRY

The EcoSupply P Core Minimises Paint and Rinsing Agent Losses

Ikaro, the Latest Innovation in Portable Sphere Spectrophotometry

The 5.0 Transition Plan Goes Beyond Industry

A NEW FOCUS ON INNOVATION www.adaptacolor.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

Richiedi la versione in italiano a info@ipcm.it

T

echnology and creativity share much more than we might think. In fact, creativity is the main trait of technology. Creativity is also the main competitive driver of any ecosystem, as its ability to produce ideas and innovations is what enables it to stand out and excel over others.

If technology is the realm of machines, creativity is the dominion of the human mind. There can be no technology without human capital that knows how to use, control, and master it. There could be no technology without the innovative creativity of those who invented it.

Even in fields where technology apparently does not belong, it actually breaks forth with the power of creative ideas, when new colours are created, new shapes engineered, new materials formulated. And new technologies are invented, along a continuum that is proper to human development.

Does it make sense to demonise technology?

No, it does not, because it is a product of humans – and as long as it remains a tool for humans.

Transition 5.0, a topic I introduced in the previous issue of ipcm® and which is also discussed on page 138 of this magazine, finds its meaning precisely in the centrality of human beings in their relationship with machines, suggesting new models of ethics and sustainability, which some farsighted companies have already been putting into practice for some years.

In this issue of ipcm®, which contains a focus on architecture & design but also presents many innovations seen at PaintExpo 2024, the two worlds of creativity and technology meet, converge, and intersect, revealing their mutual potential and influences.

It is an issue full of colours, shapes, and emotions, with lots of content showing the increasingly sophisticated integration of technology into design, up to becoming an integral part of the everyday human experience.

It is an issue proving the critical role of storytelling around a product’s manufacturing process, with a focus on the quality of raw materials and processing phases. This approach emphasises the need for developing optimised and controlled workflows that guarantee high standards of quality, functionality, and aesthetics in products.

It is an issue that tells the stories of great companies such as La Marzocco – one of the Italian firms of excellence that the world envies us, especially where coffee is most loved and appreciated – and Pintarelli Verniciature – one of the most qualified and certified coating contractors in Italy, active above all in the field of architecture. We will also delve into the trends that emerged during Milan Design Week 2024 and some new technologies in the finishing world that facilitate the work of engineers and designers.

Finally, in the wake of the great success of PaintExpo 2024 – this trade fair’s most international edition ever – we will explore some of the innovations presented there, reaching industrial worlds far removed from design but just as fascinating and capable of paying the utmost care and attention to finishing with a view to sustainability. We will walk through the doors of Next Hydraulics, one of the leaders in the field of hydraulic cranes, Pleion, a supplier of solar energy equipment in Italy, and Painting, a coating contractor that has chosen to invest in sustainability in terms not only of environment but also of its workflow, hand-picking the right technologies to offer a reliable, customised, high-quality service to its selected customers.

Many voices and many experiences, united by creativity and sustainable innovation.

Alessia Venturi Editor-in-chief Direttore Responsabile

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

05

BRAND-NEW

Researchers at Skoltech Identified Ceramic Materials for Metal Coatings The innovative ceramic materials for metal coatings can potentially increase the efficiency of gas turbine, enabling power plants to produce more electricity and aircraft to consume less fuel.

T

he researchers at Skoltech have recently

Therefore, protective coatings allow turbines

looking,” has stated Artem Oganov, who heads

identified ideal ceramic materials for

to operate at higher temperatures without

the Material Discovery Laboratory at Skoltech.

metal coatings that would increase the

compromising their integrity and increasing

Furthermore, a material for thermal barrier

efficiency of gas turbines. They will subject

efficiency.

coatings must fulfil several requirements:

these materials to further experimental tests

“Thermal barrier coatings are nowadays made

 Having a very high melting point and a very

and, if successful, the coatings will enable

of yttria-stabilized zirconia, but if a material

low thermal conductivity;

power plants to produce more electricity and

with better properties were used instead, that

 When heated, the material must expand at

aircraft to consume less fuel.

would allow you to get more useful power

approximately the same rate as the superalloy,

In fact, thermal barrier coatings are used to

out of the turbine. To find such materials,

otherwise it will flake off the surface;

protect turbine blades in power plants and

you first have to come up with candidates

 The material must not undergo phase

jet engines. The blades are made of nickel-

whose properties you predict computationally.

transitions between ambient and turbine

based superalloys, which offer an excellent

We have tested a range of methods and

operating temperatures, which would cause

combination of high temperature resistance,

determined the best of them for calculating

the coating to crack;

toughness and resistance to degradation.

the relevant material properties, particularly

 It must resist the effects of dust particles

However, when temperatures get high,

thermal conductivity. In the paper, we list

and oxygen at high temperatures and prevent

the superalloy softens and can even melt.

some promising candidates, and we’ll keep on

oxygen ions from reaching the underlying metal and oxidising it.

© Skoltech

“While we did calculate the other properties, the crux of the problem is predicting thermal conductivity. We showed such predictions are computationally feasible and reasonably accurate with homogeneous nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations. This proves somewhat unexpected, as such simulations involve a massive number of computations and extensive statistics, resulting in high computational complexity. Nevertheless, we managed to simplify the method by supplementing it with machine learning potentials: That is, the interactions between the atoms were predicted using artificial intelligence, rather than being directly calculated,” has added Majid Zeraati, Skoltech PhD student.

For further information: https://new.skoltech.ru/en/

06

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

BRAND-NEW © AkzoNobel

Interpon Unveiled its New Dynamic Website AkzoNobel transformed the Interpon user experience with a new interactive website.

T

he Interpon division of the international paints and coatings

the potential applications and aesthetic contributions to buildings and

manufacturer AkzoNobel has recently launched a vibrant new

structures.

stylish website, which will include a host of new features and

Among the new and exciting features there is also an interactive map

digital tools to enable a more interactive and dynamic user experience

of the world, in order to quickly allow customers to find their nearest

for visitors.

Approved Applicator by simply entering a Zip or postcode, alongside

The new redesigned website is a single hub imagined to enhance

in-depth case studies of how AkzoNobel is supporting its clients around

the customer experience by making it simpler and more intuitive. As

the globe.

a matter of fact, it has been created with a customer-first mindset,

“The website is all about enhancing the customer experience: it is

highlighting the extensive involvement of the company across key

a user-friendly destination for customers to learn more about the

sectors – from architectural to industrial powder coating. The design

innovation, sustainability and colour expertise in powder coatings of

prioritises ease of navigation, allowing users to seamlessly access

AkzoNobel, with the best apps and interactive tools to provide all the of

information on range of products, their applications and the markets

information you need at your fingertips. We are incredibly proud of our

served. In addition, it will also include updates on product launches and

new site which is the result of a significant investment in time, resource

industry news.

and imagination and enables customers to fully experience the Interpon

The new Resources section features a wide range of tools, from the

difference,” has stated Remco Maassen van den Brink, the marketing

product finder to the latest brochures, all aimed at making information

director of AkzoNobel Powder Coatings.

access as straightforward as possible, while the Showcases gallery offers a visual tour of architectural projects worldwide, providing a glimpse into

For further information: www.interpon.com/gl/en

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

07

BRAND-NEW

Orion Showcased Gas Blacks and Sustainable Carbon Blacks at American Coatings Show Orion presented its portfolio of high-performance gas black pigments, three new sustainable carbon blacks and the PRINTEX® kappa 50 conductive black.

A

t the American Coatings Show + Conference, the global trade

PRINTEX kappa 50 powder meets or exceeds performance requirements

fair dedicated to the paints, coatings and inks industry that

for conductivity, dispersibility and cleanliness at lower concentrations

took place from 30th April to 2nd May in Indianapolis (U.S.A.), the

than conventional conductive carbon blacks, achieving the percolation

international specialty chemicals manufacturer Orion S.A showcased its

threshold with low carbon black loading and good coloristic properties.

portfolio of high-performance gas black pigments, three new sustainable

Furthermore, COLOUR BLACK FW 200, COLOUR BLACK FW 2, SPECIAL

carbon blacks and the PRINTEX® kappa 50 conductive black.

BLACK 4 and SPECIAL BLACK 6 feature excellent degrees of dispersion

The XPB 10045 is the first circular gas black for coatings systems

plus high purity. Their UV absorption mitigates weathering and their low

designed by Orion. It has been specifically developed for high-jetness

pH makes the grades ideal for UV coatings systems.

applications and it is compatible with all suitable coatings systems. The

“The gas black process produces a deep black with properties that are

XPB 10042 and XPB 10049 powders, on the other hand, are the first

ideal for coatings and printing systems. The high structure and high

circular furnace blacks of the company for tinting applications

purity of gas blacks lead to exceptional dispersibility compared to other

“Our new circular grades based on pyrolysis oil and renewable sources

carbon blacks of the same particle size,” has stated Carlos Hernandez,

meet the same application requirements as conventional specialty

the Orion marketing manager for coatings and printing systems in the

carbon blacks. As a result, formulators can create more sustainable

Americas region. “In addition, the narrow particle size distribution of the

coatings with comparable application properties to regular specialty

gas blacks speeds pigment development and thus coatings production,

carbon blacks,” has stated Jennifer Stroh, the director of sales and

while improving colour performances.”

marketing of Orion.

The company also presented several other sustainable products. The

© Orion SA

08

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

For further information: https://orioncarbons.com

BRAND-NEW

Mankiewicz Received Two Supplier Awards 2024 by Airbus Mankiewicz was the only supplier to be honoured with the special award for operational excellence.

T

he international manufacturer of paints and coatings Mankiewicz

commitment to customer service and quality and we are excited to

has received two supplier awards by Airbus during the Supply

continue our partnership with Airbus. We are delighted that it values the

Chain & Quality Improvement Programme - Supplier Day 2024.

efforts and commitment to excellence and outstanding customer service

The company, which has been named as an accredited supplier once

and would like to extend this award to all colleagues in all disciplines

again, is also the only one to be awarded with the special prize for

around the world,” has stated René Lang, the executive managing

operational excellence. The award is presented annually to companies

director of the Aviation division at Mankiewicz. “This award therefore

that have distinguished themselves through exceptional performances

represents the special recognition for the continuous development of

in the areas of product quality and delivery reliability. The operational

our processes in all areas of our global setup since we received our first

excellence is described as the ability to continuously optimise processes

award already back in 2013.”

and systems across the entire value chain by following a clear strategy, implementing best practice processes, and achieving the highest

For further information: www.mankiewicz.com/en/

performance in a well-structured organisation.

“We are so delighted that we have been awarded with the highest honour as an accredited supplier again, plus the extra award for our operational excellence. The recognition is a testament to our

© Mankiewicz

Jens-Peter Otte, Head of Quality Management at Mankiewicz, with the two Airbus Awards.

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

09

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

PaintExpo Reconfirmed Itself as the World’s Most Important Event for Industrial Coating Technologies Edited by ipcm®

The ninth edition of PaintExpo, the world’s main trade fair for industrial coating technologies, attracted over 10,400 visitors from 76 countries and hosted more than 430 exhibitors, confirming its leading position in the industry. Held at the Karlsruhe Trade Fair Centre (Germany) from 9 to 12 April 2024, it fully met the expectations of all industry players, providing them with a wide range of innovations and business opportunities.

F

or four days, from 9 to 12 April, the

With the participation of 431 exhibitors from

interest in the latest industry trends and

Karlsruhe Trade Fair Centre was the

25 countries over 31,500 square metres

making this edition the most international

beating heart of the global surface

of exhibition space, PaintExpo was a true

ever.

treatment and coating industry, providing

oasis of innovation: sustainability, energy

This ninth edition was therefore a huge

industry professionals with a comprehensive

efficiency, and process digitalisation were

success, enabling countless high-level

overview of technologies and services along

the protagonists, with numerous globally

professional conversations and the creation

the entire supply chain, from pre-treatment

premiered, cutting-edge solutions. It attracted

of new contacts and concrete networking

to plant engineering, from paint application to

an international audience of 10,400 visitors – a

opportunities, with the exhibitors’ and

final quality control and packaging.

steadily growing figure reflecting the global

visitors’ high degree of engagement and satisfaction further consolidating the event’s position as a leader in the industry. “We are extremely satisfied with the excellent turnout of visitors, which was even better than the previous edition. PaintExpo was a powerful and innovative event, and this edition was more international than ever. For four days, it was the nerve centre of the whole industrial coating technology sector, confirming itself as the most important driving force in the industry worldwide,” stated Markus Geisenberger, the CEO of Leipziger Messe, the trade fair organiser.

The whole industrial coating world in one place A dynamic, engaging, and optimistic atmosphere permeated the air in the three exhibition halls of PaintExpo, fostering the creation of interesting business opportunities.

As mentioned, this year’s event was more © Leipziger Messe GmbH - Tom Schulze

international than ever, with more than a third of the visitors coming from abroad.

International exhibitors accounted for 45% of

10

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

the total, confirming PaintExpo’s position as a

Marketing & Sales Assistant at Eco-Techno.

Turri from Chemtec’s Sales & Marketing

global benchmark in the industry.

“For us, PaintExpo is not just a trade fair

department.

WAGNER International CEO Michael Müller

but a meeting point for all companies that

“Once again, PaintExpo confirmed itself as the

expressed great satisfaction with the

collaborate and work with us. Often, during

European trade fair that brings together the

professionals who attended the event:

the year, we are so immersed in our own

most companies in our industry with its wide

“Our stand was crowded from the moment

activities that we forget the pleasure of

range of solutions. For Global Mask, it was a

the doors opened. Half of the visitors we

getting together. PaintExpo is also about that!

pleasure to be part of this event and have the

welcomed came from abroad: from Argentina

Moreover, it is nice to see the number of

opportunity to share with other professionals

to Japan, they hailed from all over the world.

Italian exhibitors and visitors grow year after

the innovations and solutions to which each of

As a company that operates globally, we

year, with the conviviality that is our hallmark

us is contributing in terms of knowledge and

consider this trade fair’s internationality an

in the world. We also enjoyed receiving visits

experience,” noted Marta Farré, the CEO of

extremely important value.”

from our competitors as if they were old

Global Mask International SL.

“This was the second PaintExpo edition in

friends,” said Stefano Gerletti from Futura

which Helios Italquartz participated, so we

Convogliatori Aerei.

are still uncovering this event’s full potential.

“Participating in PaintExpo is crucial for

Decision-makers were also greatly pleased

However, PaintExpo 2024 far exceeded our

consolidating existing partnerships and

Such a high degree of satisfaction was found

expectations: as the industrial curing sector

starting new collaborations. Chemtec has been

not only among PaintExpo’s exhibitors but also

cuts across all the markets where we are

participating in PaintExpo since 2012, and the

among visitors, including many key decision-

present, this trade fair provided us with many

2024 edition also gave us the opportunity to

makers in the industry. In the follow-up

different and varied connections, and the

identify new opportunities for development

survey, nine out of ten said they were willing

meetings at our stand were highly technical

and growth. We are happy to announce that

to recommend PaintExpo and to attend the

and very promising,” said Veronica Bassani,

we already intend to participate in the next

next edition of the trade fair. The level of

Marketing Specialist at Helios Italquartz.

edition of PaintExpo as well,” stated Beatrice

participation of decision-makers, professionals,

“Mirodur participated in PaintExpo for the first time as both a visitor and exhibitor. Although it was a leap of faith, we were very satisfied with this trade fair overall. The size of the exhibition centre, which was not excessively chaotic, and the attendance of not numerous but high-quality visitors were the event’s main strengths. Despite this being a niche trade fair, the exhibitors also belonged to quite diverse sectors. The support of ipcm®’ team was of great help, who sympathetically and professionally acted as an intermediary for Italian exhibitors,” indicates Riccardo Vitelli, Sales Representative at Mirodur.

“Our first participation in PaintExpo was undoubtedly a positive experience, which enabled us to establish business relationships with companies worldwide. Industrial coating is one of the main fields of application of our vacuum evaporation technologies, and visitors to the trade fair saw our solutions as an answer to one of the challenges they face daily: the treatment of waste water and its total recovery,” noted Francesca Colombo,

© ipcm

International Paint&Coating Magazine’s stand.

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

11

and senior executives was extraordinarily high,

and existing customers exploring the latest

with 83% of visitors influencing investment

developments in these areas. I am convinced

decisions in their companies.

that a multitude of fascinating, cutting-edge

“PaintExpo offers excellent opportunities to

projects will emerge from these encounters,

generate new contacts and initiate business.

and I feel optimistic about the rest of the year.

Networking is crucial here. Nordson’s

We look forward to the next PaintExpo and

participation has always been a very positive

are already committed to participating again,”

experience, and we were thrilled to be back

explained Thomas Rippert, Managing Director

at PaintExpo,” said Sergey Guskov, Sales and

at RIPPERT.

Service Manager, Central and North Europe

Oliver Zanner, the Marketing Manager of

Industrial Coating Systems, at Nordson

FreiLacke, also praised this year’s event: “Even

Deutschland.

before the start of PaintExpo, the enormous

“We are delighted to share that ALIT

interest among visitors was palpable. The

Technologies participated in PaintExpo 2024

trade fair was intense, unlike the last edition.

with great success. During the event, we had

We exchanged ideas with many visitors, and

the opportunity to connect with numerous

the quality of the conversations was excellent.

industry stakeholders, exchanging views and

As paint specialists and manufacturers, we can

ideas on the present and future of industrial

meet our target customers from a wide range

coating. Our presence at the trade fair

of industries here at PaintExpo, which is the

attracted great interest, especially concerning

most important event on our agenda.”

in-line frame paint stripping. Visitors were © ipcm

and sustainable, energy-efficient paint

A place to network, share ideas, and toast together

stripping processes. It was a special moment

eos Mktg&Communication, the publisher

to strengthen ties with our long-standing

of the ipcm® magazines, also participated

customers and beloved distributors, creating

enthusiastically in PaintExpo as the event’s

a beautiful atmosphere at our stand. In

official agency for Italy, Spain, Portugal,

short, PaintExpo 2024 was an unforgettable

Argentina, and Brazil

experience, and we are grateful for the

ipcm®’s stand was designed as a space for

opportunity to be part of this vibrant global

networking, sharing ideas, and toasting

network,” said ALIT Technologies’ Marketing

together. Visitors were immediately immersed

Manager, Andrea Gobbi.

in a cosy and dynamic bar-like atmosphere,

enthusiastic about our innovative solutions

Being optimistic despite tough times

© ipcm

The ipcm team at PaintExpo. ®

12

complete with a cocktail and aperitif service and a football table. The idea behind this stand’s concept was to create an experience

Although the market is facing a difficult,

beyond the mere promotion of the company’s

challenging time, the four days of PaintExpo

products and services. “We wanted to offer

were a beacon of optimism and new business

an informal space for sharing and exchanging

opportunities.

ideas, where exhibitors and visitors could

“Last year posed considerable challenges

interact freely. The result of this innovative

for our industry, and we had to postpone

concept was a welcoming environment where

or abandon many projects. However, since

industry professionals could meet, discuss

mid-Q1 2024, we have been seeing signs

new technologies and trends, and establish

of recovery and increased investment in

contacts for future collaborations,” noted

sustainable technologies and innovative

Alessia Venturi, the Editor-in-Chief of the ipcm®

automation solutions. I perceived the same

magazines.

positive trend at PaintExpo, with many visitors

At the same time, the bar setting was also

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

specially created to celebrate and toast an important milestone: the fifteenth anniversary of eos Mktg&Communication and the ipcm® magazines. “We also paid tribute to the companies that have believed

Get more from water

in this project from the beginning. We hung the magazine covers we published in these first fifteen years on our stand’s ceiling, creating a visual installation that celebrated our long history of collaboration and mutual trust with many firms in the industry. Each cover represented a significant moment in ipcm®’s journey and conveyed our desire to express gratitude and recognition to those who have played a key role in our growth path.”

Preparing PaintExpo 2026 After the great success of this edition, the trade fair’s organiser is already working to make PaintExpo 2026, to be held from 14 to 17 April 2026 in Karlsruhe, an even more memorable event. The survey compiled by the exhibitors at the end of the trade fair revealed high satisfaction: 94% said they also intend to attend the next edition.

Such positive feedback is also reflected by the fact that only a month after the end of the 2024 edition, numerous companies have already confirmed their participation, booking an exhibition space for the 2026 edition and demonstrating strong interest and confidence in this event.

Turn key solutions for industrial wastewater treatment Design and manufacturing of plants and chemicals for industrial wastewater treatment Chemical-physical plants Sludge treatment and compactor systems Ion exchange demineralization systems and reverse osmosis systems Oil separators Filtering systems Batch type systems Flotation units Chemicals and spare parts for water treatment Technical service, support and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants

Aware of the incredible value of this trade fair, which manages to bring together thousands of professionals in the sector, eos Mktg&Communication is also already at work to contribute to the success of the tenth edition of PaintExpo, once again as the exclusive agency for Italy, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Brazil.

© Leipziger Messe GmbH - Tom Schulze

PaintExpo 2024 was attended by 431 exhibitors from 25 countries and over 10,000 visitors from 76 nations.

Beware of imitations, buy the original!

info@waterenergy.it

www.waterenergy.it

BRAND-NEW

DÖRKEN Attends SurfaceTechnology Germany 2024 The experts from DÖRKEN are looking forward to numerous exciting discussions and talks on various topics at SurfaceTechnology Germany 2024.

L

ike many industries, the surface technology sector is facing

In addition to the zinc flake solutions, which reliably protect a wide

constantly growing challenges. Increasing demands on

variety of components against corrosion, the topic of chemical

environmental protection, geopolitical tensions and the

restrictions also plays a major role. The company has been working on

development of new materials and technologies are just a few examples

PFAS-free products even before the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

of the issues that companies are dealing with these days.

proposed a ban on the production, use and marketing (including import)

These are the conditions under which the industry will be meeting

of perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS).

at SurfaceTechnology Germany, held from 4th to 6th June 2024 at the

DÖRKEN has various products in its portfolio, such as the DELTA-

Messe Stuttgart. Understanding these challenges as an opportunity and

PROTEKT® TC 502 GZ topcoat, taht has a very narrow friction coefficient

engaging in close dialogue with partners, customers and other players in

window on metric components like screws or nuts. With this solution,

the market – that it what the trade fair is all about. Trade visitors will gain

DÖRKEN has also the opportunity to win the Stuttgart surface

insights into current trends and developments and can speak directly

technology prize “DIE OBERFLÄCHE” 2024, which will be awarded during

with experts on various topics.

the trade fair. The prize honours the most innovative applications and technologies within all disciplines of surface technology.

PFAS in focus

DELTA-PROTEKT® TC 502 GZ has made it onto one of the five winners’

DÖRKEN will also be in attendance again this year. The supplier

podiums, the exact ranking will only be announced at the award

of microlayer corrosion protection systems from Germany will be

ceremony.

represented with a booth at SurfaceTechnology Germany. In hall 1 at booth C26, employees of the company with more than 130 years in the field of coatings will be available to answer any questions.

© DÖRKEN

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For further information: www.doerken.com

BRAND-NEW

Evonik Presented the New Fast-Curing Agent Ancamine® 2880 Evonik expanded its curing agent portfolio with the UV-resistant Ancamine® 2880 for topcoat flooring applications.

T

he international specialty chemicals

high gloss – underscoring the commitment of the

manufacturer Evonik has recently presented

company in meeting the evolving needs of the

Ancamine® 2880, a new fast-curing and UV-

global coatings industry by providing innovative

resistant epoxy curing agent for topcoat flooring

solutions that satisfy the highest performances and

applications that offers excellent mechanical

environmental standards at the same time.

properties, abrasion resistance and colour stability

“Our customers need solutions that provide

throughout its service life.

performance advantages and meet the latest labelling

The new modified cycloaliphatic epoxy curing agent

requirements, so we are excited to introduce our

from Evonik addresses current performance gaps

new high-performance curing agent in the Ancamine

of existing products, as it offers good balance of fast

series to the market. Ancamine 2880 addresses

cure speed with strong carbamation, water-spotting

the performance gaps found with existing available

and abrasion and chemical resistance, even under

curing agents and its excellent EH&S profile make it a

adverse conditions. It can also be cured at ambient

game-changer for the coatings market,” has declared

and low temperature, while its rapid hardness

Christian Schmidt, the head of the Crosslinkers

development enables early walk-on floors.

business line at Evonik.

In addition, Ancamine 2880 offers excellent aesthetics and possesses and enhanced EH&S profile, so it is

For further information:

then suitable for applications requiring excellent

https://crosslinkers.evonik.com/en/products/

surface appearance – thanks to its low colour and

ancamine/ancamine-2880

© Evonik

BRAND-NEW

Brenntag Acquired Specialties Distributor Lawrence Industries The recent acquisition of the specialty chemicals distributor Lawrence Industries will allow Brenntag to further strengthen its position in the British and Irish coatings market.

T

he international chemicals and ingredients distributor Brenntag

valued customers with a particular focus on innovative and sustainable

has announced the acquisition of Lawrence Industries, a British

solutions, leveraging each other’s capabilities,” has commented Lars

specialties distributor, in order to enhance its coatings, adhesives,

Schneider, Global President Brenntag Specialties Material Science.

sealants and elastomers sustainable product portfolio.

“We are excited to join the Brenntag family. Gaining the international

“The acquisition of Lawrence Industries will further strengthen our

reach is an important next step for us as a leading distributor of

specialty offering in the UK and Ireland and is perfectly in line with

specialty chemicals in the UK. Moreover, acquiring access to Brenntag’s

our strategy in Material Science. Lawrence Industries has developed

extensive Innovation & Application Centre network enable our current

an industry leading reputation. I am deeply impressed with Lawrence

and future customers to benefit from best-in-class value added

Industries and its highly capable and outstanding team, their

services,” has added Charles Henn-Allen, Managing Director of Lawrence

long-established regional presence, strong specialty portfolio and

Industries.

experienced technical set-up. I look forward to further expanding our technical and value-added services to our top tier suppliers and

© Getty Images

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For further information: www.brenntag.com

BRAND-NEW

Cornelia Tietz is the New Director of EuPIA Starting from 4th March 2024, Cornelia Tietz is in charge of the European Printing Ink Association (EuPIA) to keep consolidating its global position.

T

he European Printing Ink Association (EuPIA) appointed

“In the current revision of so many EU regulations relevant to our

Cornelia Tietz as its new Director, succeeding to Martin Kanert.

industry, a dynamic and well structures trade association is of benefit

“It is a great honour and for sure a challenge to take over from

to its members, and we will continue to contribute under the lead of

Martin Kanert who has been the driving force of EuPIA for so many

the Director to give an answer to societal questions. I would personally

years. I am truly looking forward to embark on this new and exciting

like to thank Martin for two decades of leadership and at the same

journey together with the EuPIA members and the CEPE team,”

time extend a warm welcome to Cornelia who will help and support us

declared Cornelia Tietz, the newly-elected Director of EuPIA.

through a transition into a sustainable future,” has concluded Mehran

Cornelia Tietz holds two master’s degrees in humanities and has

Yazdani, EuPIA’s Chairman.

almost 20 years of experience in the industry, where she served as For further information: www.eupia.org

the Secretary General of the European Solvents Industry Group ESIG and its sector association. “I am proud to have helped EuPIA develop into what it is today. It goes without saying that this has only been possible with the substantial support and dedication of the many people engaged in EuPIA’s committees, working groups and task forces. And I am happy that with Cornelia, the EuPIA Council has found such an experienced and knowledgeable successor,” has added Martin Kanert, former Director of EuPIA.

© EuPIA

#FAST #SAFE #EFFICIENT #EXHAUST-FREE #PROCESS-SAFE #STATE SUBSIDISED

HOW TO DRY SURFACES PERFECTLY WITH HEATPUMP AND SAVE UP TO 75% ENERGY AND CO2!

04 - 06 June 2024 Stuttgart Trade Fair Hall 001 | Stand C08

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

17

BRAND-NEW

BYK Additives Invests in a New €25 Million Innovation Laboratory The new modern and sustainable complex will ensure even greater customer proximity and exclusive seminar offerings.

T

he international manufacturer and provider of specialty chemicals

The complex will be created on the existing site of the company and will

BYK has recently presented the plan for a new cutting-edge

cover a total area of 5,100 m2. The heating and cooling systems will be

innovation laboratory and seminar complex in Wesel (Germany).

fed with 100% renewable energy generated through heat pumps and

The company estimates a total implementation period of four years,

photovoltaic panels. In addition, several other sustainable materials will

with completion envisaged in the second quarter of 2028.

be deployed throughout the entire project.

The €25 million project testifies the commitment to Germany as an

“BYK is networked with its customers worldwide; with this innovative

innovation location and will ensure even greater customer proximity and

laboratory complex, it will be creating space for effective communication

exclusive seminar offerings thanks to integrated function rooms. The

as well as for developments and cooperation with our customers and

aim of the investment is to generate new innovations together with and

distributors. At the same time, the new building will offer us more

for customers in end-use facilities.

opportunities for our exclusive on-site seminars that are so much

“It will be of especial benefit to our customers who seek to develop their

in demand,” has also added Jörg Hinnerwisch, the president of BYK

project solutions here on site with BYK experts. It was therefore logical

Additives. “With regard to sustainability, safeguarding the future, and

to plan a further story where we will soon be able to host customer

ecology, we wish to equip the building – and further adjacent laboratory

events, visits and seminars. At around 25 million euros construction

buildings – with heat recovery, as well as meeting the full energy needs

costs, a particular intention of the innovation complex is to provide

of this new innovations construction with 100 percent renewable

modern state-of-the-art laboratories for BYK end uses while at the same

energies.”

time allowing more breathing space for existing end use, applications labs and R&D facilities,” has stated Stefan Mößmer, the Marketing & Commercial Managing Director of BYK. © BYK

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

For further information: www.byk.com/en

BRAND-NEW

ASK Chemicals Presented New Solutions for Coatings at ACS 2024 ASK Chemicals showcased its new sustainable and VOC-free binders for paints and coatings at the 2024 American Coatings Show, which took place from 30th April to 2nd May.

A

SK Chemicals has showcased its VOC-free, sustainable binders

The Foundry division offers an exceptionally wide and innovative range

for industrial paints and coatings at American Coatings Show

of foundry consumables including binders, coatings, risers, filters,

2024. ASK Chemicals highlighted new binders for industrial

release agents as well as metallurgical products such as inoculants,

coatings, complemented by offerings for the formulation of decorative

inoculation wires and master alloys for iron casting.

coatings. In particular, the company presented NECOWEL alkyd resins,

The Industrial Resins division is a leader in the field of specialty phenolic

two-component paints and its REZIANCE range of industrial phenolic

resins. Our phenolic resins are the preferred choice when it comes to

resins, developed for different industrial applications.

meeting the highest requirements in the areas of fire protection, energy

ABOUT ASK Chemicals

consumption, service lifetime, health, and safety at work.

The company has a production and sales network in 22 countries

ASK Chemicals Group, headquartered in Hilden near Düsseldorf

and employs approximately 1800 people worldwide. ASK Chemicals

(Germany), is a global supplier of high-performance industrial resins and

Group sees itself as a driving force of industry-specific innovations with

materials. The company’s products are mainly used in foundries and in

research centres and laboratories in Europe, Asia, Americas and Africa.

the production of friction, abrasives, refractories, impregnation, coatings, insulation and composite materials.

For further information: www.ask-chemicals.com

ASK JOE POWDER

The “Ask an Expert” Column Kevin Biller

kbiller@chemquest.com

Hi Joe,

The stability of a powder coating is influenced by many factors. First, I

I’m selling powder coating in South America. So now I have many

must differentiate two distinct types of stability. Physical stability involves

questions regarding powder coatings. But the most important

the requirement for the individual particles to resist clumping or fusing

is this: how long after the expiration date can a powder coating

together. Chemical stability refers to a powder coating’s resistance to

still be used?

premature polymerization during storage and handling.

Thanks

Physical stability is influenced by the melt point or more specifically the

Claudia Helsum

Tg (glass transition temperature) of the powder coating and the storage

Medellin, Colombia

conditions. A powder coating with a low melt point will sinter and clump more readily than one with a higher melt point. Accordingly powders stored in high temperature environments will clump more readily than

Hello Claudia,

those stored in cooler areas. Additionally powders exposed to high

Thanks for the question. I have travelled and worked in Colombia and

humidity environments tend to absorb moisture which will also cause

have very fond memories of my time spent there. I will be very happy to

clumping (please note that most powders are supplied in moisture

answer your question.

impervious containers and the exposure to moisture occurs after the package has been opened). Clumping obviously makes a powder difficult to fluidize, transport, and spray in an application system.

On the other hand, chemical instability causes a powder coating to chemically advance or polymerize during storage. Fast-reacting and low-temperature curing powders can start polymerizing in hightemperature storage or transport conditions. This premature chemical advancement reduces the melt flow of a powder coating causing a more textured finish. Both physical and chemical instability can be present in a powder coating. Typically fast-cure (or low-temperature cure) powders also have low melt points to help facilitate better melt flow at low cure temperatures. Consequently these types of powders are most susceptible to clumping and chemical advancement and should be stored and applied in a climate-controlled environment. I recommend © ipcm / generated with AI

20

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

less than 27 °C and 50 to 70% relative humidity.

Zaniolo CdA - 05.24

Powder Coatings series

Europoveri S.p.A. - Ph. +39.(0)444.750643 - www.europolveri.it

ASK JOE POWDER

Now to answer your question. Standard curing

cleaner followed by a clean water rinse.

If you’re still having adhesion issues after

powder coatings (175 -200 °C) that have

Pretreating the metal is the next step and

following these recommendations, then I

been stored in a reasonable environment can

can be accomplished by media blasting

would switch to a non-zinc primer. They

remain usable long after their “due date”. Low-

(remember to use only clean media) or a

work as well as most zinc-rich types and are

cure powders and those that have been

chemical pretreatment such as iron phosphate

much easier to spray. In addition, you get

stored in environments exceeding 27 °C for

or zirconium/silane solution. Clean rinsing with

significantly more coverage per pound of

long periods can suffer from clumping and

deionized water or water processed through

powder because the specific gravity of a non-

chemical advancement. I would inspect (for

reverse osmosis is recommended to ensure

zinc primer is considerably lower than that of

clumps, etc.) then spray and bake a sample

the best surface for the primer to adhere

the zinc-rich material. We’ve seen excellent

of any powder that is past its due date and

to. The metal must be thoroughly dried,

corrosion resistance of the newer non-zinc

make the determination yourself. If the finish

preferably in a forced air oven.

primers in our laboratory. Remember that

is still within your requirement for smoothness

After applying the primer it is wise to partially

clean, well pretreated metal is essential as is a

and appearance (no blistering, dirt, etc) then I

cure or “gel” the powder. Best topcoat

partial cure of the primer for optimal intercoat

would continue to use it.

adhesion is achieved over a partially cured

adhesion.

Claudia, I hope that this helps you. Someday

primer. So, reduce the recommended primer

Best of luck.

I hope to return to Colombia to enjoy the

bake time by 50% and proceed to top-

Joe

beautiful weather, excellent food, and

coating. Bake the top-coated rails per the

wonderful people.

recommended powder bake as disclosed

Peace,

on the Product Data Sheet provided by your

Joe

powder supplier.

Afternoon Joe, I have a question about powder coating.

What is the best powder coating primer to use as a base coat on fencing outdoor iron rails? We then apply gloss black as a topcoat. We use zinc-rich primer as our base, but the topcoat and base are starting to peel off.

Thank you, Joel Menchaca Houston, USA Morning Joel, This sounds like a serious problem. Using a zinc primer should be okay as your base coat (aka primer) as long as it’s processed properly.

It’s important to ensure the iron rails are properly prepared before applying the primer.

By proper preparation, I am referring to first removing all “oils and soils”, then preparing the metal for the best adhesion of the primer.

The O&S can be removed by solvent wiping (acetone works well) or by applying an alkaline © AdobeStock

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

21

© J. Wagner GmbH

Wagner’s booth at PaintExpo.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

J. Wagner Highlights at PaintExpo 2024 Alessia Venturi ipcm®

At the PaintExpo 2024 trade fair, J. Wagner – a leading global supplier of systems and components for industrial surface technology - presented some important innovations for both powder coating and liquid painting.

We took the occasion up to visit the booth and to talk with Markus Sonnenstatter, CSO Industrial Solutions, and Jens Arnoscht, CTO Industrial Solutions, at J. Wagner GmbH about sustainability, Industry 5.0, smart and accessible solutions for paints and coatings application in the General Industrial. ipcm®: Can you please briefly present the main exhibits of

unit, Sprint 2; the Flowsense system, a ground-breaking technology that

J. Wagner at PaintExpo 2024?

measures and fully automatically controls the powder output; a new bell

MS: At PaintExpo 2024, our main purpose was to show innovative

with internal charge for solvent-based paints, the TOPFINISH RobotBell

products for both liquid paints and powder coatings application, and we

1/Bell 1S; a new automatic flushing system which allows to recover a lot

had a lot of them: the new generation of our manual powder coating

of unused paint in the hoses and to reduce the consumption of flushing

22

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

workpiece geometries or with challenging powder coatings. The DSO function supports the coater in achieving an even more homogeneous surface finish. The intuitive controls and even clearer arrangement of the operating elements make day-to-day work easier: the coater has all the important parameters at a glance and can make all adjustments, including recipe selection, quickly and easily using a central rotary knob.

WAGNER’s Air Flow Control (AFC) technology constantly measures and regulates the air volume during the coating process, creating a uniform powder cloud for high-quality coating © J. Wagner GmbH

results.

© J. Wagner GmbH

Markus Sonnenstatter, CSO Industrial Solutions, at J. Wagner GmbH.

Jens Arnoscht, CTO Industrial Solutions, at J. Wagner GmbH.

solvent. At our booth in Hall 3 we showed all

powder blockage for example, because the

automatically controls the powder output.

these technologies live, accompanying our

system itself alerts the operators with a simple

This delivers consistently high-quality results

customers along the path of innovations.

traffic light signal, so that they can take care

and reduced powder consumption thanks to

The claim of the booth was “Wagner better

of the problem very quickly, without creating

constant layer thicknesses.

for you”: we wanted our customers to tell us

unnecessary waste.

As part of the Flowsense technology, each

JA: The second big innovation we brought to the trade fair was Flowsense, a groundbreaking technology that measures and fully

individual feeding element is equipped with

why they work with Wagner, so why Wagner is ipcm : The focus of the surface

high-precision measuring sensors. The smart

technology market is currently on

system constantly monitors the powder flow

JA: At PE 2024 Wagner addressed the key

powder coating: what are Wagner’s new

and compares the powder quantity with the

trends of sustainability, digitisation, and the

offerings in this field? Both for manual

target values. Flowsense can even measure

scarcity of human resources. This last aspect

and automatic application

the powder output in g/min and individually

is the focus of our most recent developments.

MS: At PaintExpo we showed two new

for each gun. The exact dosing of the

Our new powder coating technologies are

technologies for powder coating: the Sprint

powder quantity can be saved in the recipe

especially addressed to ramping up quickly

2 manual unit and the Flowsense automatic

and is permanently reproducible, without

the expertise of new employees of the coating

control of the powder quantity.

any manual corrections, which would be

technology. From the automatic application

The new generation of the Wagner manual

necessary without Flowsense. With Flowsense,

side, we want to “democratise” robotics so that

unit has been modernised in terms of

however, the output parameters are adjusted

everybody is able to install and use a robotic

design and functionality. With the Smart 2

independently and deviations are corrected

solution in a coating line very easily, without

manual unit we can allow operators with

automatically. The system even compensates

the need of programmers. Finally, we want

less experience to apply powders in a very

for influences on the output, e.g. caused by

to make powder coating application easier

fast and easy way. The WACON Sprint 2 XE

fluidisation and fluctuating powder levels.

for the customer. This means that Wagner’s

(successor to the EPG SPRINT XE control unit)

The sawtooth effect is smoothed out by the

technologies must be able to provide process

has the new DSO (Digital Surface Optimizer)

control to a micro-sawtooth that can no

stability without manual intervention and

assistance function, which reduces overcharge

longer be measured. The powder output can

regardless of spare part wear: the powder

effects such as orange peel, edge build-up

be adjusted much better to the target layer

coating system must be working stable

and similar. This advantage is particularly

thickness, which in turn minimizes the safety

regardless of any issues you may have, like

relevant for decorative coatings on complex

margin. This results in significant powder

better for them.

®

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

23

© J. Wagner GmbH

© J. Wagner GmbH

savings. Constant coating thicknesses within certain limits are also an important

continuous information on whether the coating is achieving

criterion for certification by quality associations for industrial coating. Another

the desired quality. This allows the user to replace the collector

advantage is predictive maintenance: as Flowsense permanently monitors

nozzles in a very short time and exactly when it is needed.

the powder flow, blockages, for example, are detected in time and rejects are

Flowsense is a real quantum leap in powder application!

avoided. In combination with the injector technology, Flowsense also provides information on the current status of the collector nozzles. This is clearly

ipcm®: What were the highlights on the liquid part?

visualised on the touchscreen of the powder center in a traffic light system. This

JA: One of the highlights was definitely the new bell WAGNER

allows the operator to see the exact system status at all times and provides

TOPFINISH RobotBell 1/Bell 1S. It’s an internal charge bell for solvent-based applications, which comes along with a control unit that is, again, easy to use for the applicator: the touchscreen shows different operator modes, from a beginner level for operators who may not have an expert knowledge of the paint application, to an expert level for a painting line manager who can adjust more values in the controller. This is the ideal solution package for integrators that are maybe not too experienced with bells and do not have their own SPS programmers. You can buy the control unit or just the bell: with this approach we see bells being used for non-automotive applications up to job coating.

GmbH

MS: The second highlight for liquid paint application is our

© J. W

agner

active flushing system for high pressure applications, where we provide an additional accessory that makes it possible to flush the pump after the entry of the gun so that the flushing can be done either with solvent or with solvent and air mixed. In this way you can flush the system more quickly, more efficiently, with less solvent and less paint loss, since the active flushing system also recovers all the unused paint in the hose prior to flushing.

The Sprint 2 manual Unit.

24

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

Increase your productivity WITH SELF-LEARNING ROBOT FOR FINISHING

Flowsense is a ground-breaking technology that measures and fully automatically controls the powder output.

ipcm®: The IPS powder centre, presented to the market at PaintExpo 2018, has been a great success in Europe. After 6 years, is there any further development planned for this ground-breaking technology?

MS: Well, the IPS is the best powder centre available on the market, because it is the only one with a really automatic colour change without manual intervention, while the SFT feeding concept (“Smart Feeding Technology”) delivers powder stability over time and a great transfer efficiency with powder saving. These are its main advantages, making it so successful in the market. Even though it is the best technology available, we will not stop its development, since we want to remain a technology leader in the future. However, I

SELF-LEARNING ROBOT

cannot share more details about this! ipcm®: After the fourth industrial revolution of the last decade, now we are already going towards Industry 5.0. How does Wagner approach this new paradigm?

JA: As we said at the beginning of this interview, we have recognised two megatrends in the industry: the scarcity of skilled workforce and sustainability. The Industry 5.0 concept reflects a focus on social value and well-being. It is a new phase of industrialisation in which

1 OPERATOR REQUIRED EUROPEAN ASSISTANCE

humans work together with advanced technology and AI-driven robots to improve processes and to improve sustainability. What we showed at PaintExpo 2024 is going in this direction.

info@Lesta.it

www.Lesta.it

IN MEMORY OF

P

atrizia Lancini had been working for the Italtecno group ever since she finished her foreign language studies. In just a few years, she became an expert in technical matters as well, particularly regarding anodizing equipment. She rose to become the group’s sales manager, keeping contacts with agents, distributors, and final customers in more than 30 countries worldwide.

Every year, she actively participated in exhibitions, congresses, and seminars about aluminium surface treatments.

Indeed, her last activity was the presentation of her paper titled “Special Effects in Anodizing: The New Trend in Europe” at the Aluminium Two Thousand Congress between September 19th and 21st, just a few days before her fatal accident in October. She spent more than two months in the hospital before her premature departure on December 17th at the age of 56. She leaves behind immense sadness for all those who loved her deeply.

26

The team at Italtecno and all her friends bid her this final goodbye: “Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while, leaving footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.”

Flavia Weedn Dear Patrizia, your bright light has illuminated darkness and calmed rough seas.Your love and joyful heart have brought happiness to so many. I will miss your laugh, your smile, and your easy, loving nature. As your soul moves on to your next great adventure, I feel lucky to have known you, spent time with you, and created so many beautiful memories together. You leave behind an empty space as vast as the oceans your loved ones sail, and your pure love and light leave a legacy that will serve as a buoy in the rough seas they must now navigate without you. I know the love you have given will be like sand beneath their feet, cushioning their journey. The expectation of a shared future gone too soon.

Love never dies. It is within us. With us. Around us.

So, sail on, my friend, knowing you have left footprints on our hearts, and we will never be the same.

“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation.”

Rumi

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

Scopri la nostra storia - Discover our story.

www.savimeurope.com Via Venezia, 2 Arbizzano (VR) – Italy +39 045 7514099 - info@savimeurope.com

Your Technological Partner

© AdobeStock

RESEARCH BREAKTHROUGH

TU Graz Develops Innovative Coating Against Ice Philipp Jarke Technische Universität Graz – Graz, Austria

philipp.jarke@tugraz.at

The material delays the formation of ice crystals and reduces the adhesion of ice layers.

Thanks to an innovative production method, the coating is very robust and adheres to numerous surfaces.

I

ce-repellent coatings have been around for some time, but until

Gradual transition of the two components

now they have been very sensitive and detach quite quickly from the

The researchers achieved this progress by using a manufacturing

surfaces they are meant to protect.

technology called initiated chemical vapour deposition (iCVD). This

A research team led by Anna Maria Coclite and Gabriel Hernández

makes it possible for a strongly adhesive primer material to gradually

Rodríguez from the Institute of Solid State Physics at Graz University

transition into the ice-repellent compound.

of Technology (TU Graz) has now succeeded in remedying this

This stepless transition is achieved by applying the two materials as

shortcoming. They have developed a highly ice-repellent coating that

a changing gas mixture to the surface to be coated. Initially, the gas

adheres to a wide variety of materials and is very resistant to abrasion.

mixture consists purely of the primer material, but the proportion of

The complete paper was published in the journal ACS Applied Materials

the ice-repellent material is continuously increased during application,

& Interfaces1.

from 0 to 100 per cent. The result is a coating with a strongly adhesive underside and a top side that prevents ice crystals from sticking.

1

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsami.3c18630

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

RESEARCH BREAKTHROUGH

© Lunghammer - TU Graz

The ice-repellent coating is wafer-thin. For their experiments, Anna Maria Coclite and Gabriel Hernández Rodríguez (pictured here) applied it in thicknesses between 300 and 500 nanometres.

Random alignment of the molecules creates an ice-repellent effect

the arrangement at the surface, the greater the

During their experiments, Anna Maria Coclite and

unknown.

Gabriel Hernández Rodríguez discovered what the

ice-repellent effect.” This mechanism was previously

“The ice-repellent material consists of elongated

Conceivable application in aviation and sensor technology

molecules that adhere to the primer in a vertical or

A wide range of applications are conceivable for

horizontal orientation,” explains Gabriel Hernández

this new type of coating, for example in the aviation

Rodríguez. “The thicker we applied the material, the

industry: “Such a coating could speed up the de-icing

more random the alternation between vertical and

of aircraft and use less antifreeze,” says Anna Maria

horizontal molecules became. And the more random

Coclite.

ice-repellent property of their coating is based on.

© Lunghammer - TU Graz

Gabriel Hernández Rodríguez with deep-frozen samples of coated acrylic glass.

Sensors exposed to the weather that are disturbed by ice could also

only a few examples of the University’s extremely active and successful

benefit from such coating.

research.

About TU Graz and its Institute of Solid State Physics

Solid state physics is the study of how atoms arrange themselves into solids and what properties these solids have. By examining the

In world-wide competition with comparable institutions, Graz University

arrangement of the atoms and considering how electrons move among

of Technology pursues top teaching and research in the fields of the

the atoms, it is possible to understand many macroscopic properties

engineering sciences and the technical-natural sciences. An integral

of materials such as their elasticity, electrical conductivity, or optical

part of putting together excellent education and training programs is

properties. The Institute of Solid State Physics focuses on organic,

knowing about the needs of society and the economy. Ultimately, the

molecular, and nanostructured materials. Often detailed studies of the

quality of the education and training at Graz University of Technology is

behaviour of these materials at surfaces are made. Its research provides

carried by the strength of its knowledge-oriented and applied research.

the foundation for important advances in technology such as energy

Numerous competence centres, the Christian-Doppler laboratories,

efficient lighting, solar cells, electronic books, environmental sensors,

special research fields, research focuses, and large EU projects are

and medical sensors.

30

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

We convey the future since 1959

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and floor MONORAIL and P+F CONVEYOR systems that can be perfectly integrated into your production processes.

We take care of all your requirements and create a tailor-made and cost-optimized concept for you.

segreteria@conveyors.it

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

The Future of Next Hydraulics Between Innovative Industrial Choices and Green Coating Technologies Alessia Venturi ipcm®

© Next Hydraulics

In order to efficiently manage the transition from solvent-based to water-based DTM technology and meet its sustainability targets, Next Hydraulics chose Verind, a company of the Dürr Group, as its partner for the supply of integrated water-based 2K coating application and management technology based on a “green concept” characterised by high transfer efficiency, reduced overspray, and halved raw material consumption.

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

????????? ???????

Autore Azienda, Indirizzo

32

mail

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

T

he acronym DTM indicates two-component paint products that

achieving even higher corrosion protection properties while reducing

act as both primers and top coats and can be applied directly to

emissions and raw material consumption is significantly convenient for

suitably prepared metal surfaces, with excellent adhesion and

many companies.

corrosion resistance properties even in the absence of a base coat.

This is the case for Next Hydraulics, a company based in Boretto (Reggio

Direct-to-Metal products have revolutionised the industrial coating

Emilia, Italy) specialising in hydraulic cranes, which has chosen a DTM

sector by becoming popular in various application contexts, from

coating to finish around 60% of its components. And that is not all:

agricultural and earth-moving machinery to heavy metalwork fabrication,

with a view to improving sustainability and lowering the environmental

thanks to their ability to streamline processes, reduce costs, and ensure

impact of its processes to obtain ISO 14001 certification – which it did

long-lasting aesthetics and performance.

at the beginning of 2024 – the company based in the Emilia-Romagna

In some cases, by virtue of these chemical and operational

region has decided to switch to a water-based paint product. As this

characteristics, they are even chosen for components or semi-finished

entailed upgrading several plant engineering aspects related to paint

products already coated with a primer applied by the production and

management, supply, and application, it selected Verind (Rodano, Milan,

machining workshop or with a foundry primer. That is because the

Italy), a Dürr Group company specialising in automotive and industrial

possibility of concentrating the coating process into one step and

coating, surface protection, ultrafiltration, and water treatment, as well

© ipcm

Opening photo: Next Hydraulics (Boretto, Reggio Emilia, Italy) specialises in the production of hydraulic cranes and truck stabilisers sold worldwide.

Next Hydraulics’ liquid coating plant and truck stabilisers waiting for DTM application. © ipcm

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

33

© ipcm

as the main integrator of Dürr products in the industrial market, as its technological partner.

Verind carried out two interventions on Next Hydraulics’ coating plant:  setting up the water-based DTM product mixing, feeding, and electrostatic application circuit with an EcoDose 2K mixing machine;  revamping the top coat booth’s feeding system to prepare it for the forthcoming transition to a water-based product by installing a second EcoDose 2K unit.

About Next Hydraulics Founded in 1989, Next Hydraulics offers lifting solutions with a production divided into three product lines:  Maxilift, a range of mono-boom cranes from 0.5 to 5 tm with a modular construction concept, ideal for installation on light and ultra-light vehicles;  Cobra, a range of service cranes from 1.8 to 10.9 tm designed for installation on “mobile workshop” vehicles, perfect for © ipcm

working off road, in countries like Australia, North America.  Maxistab, a range of supplementary stabilisers known worldwide and adopted by the major crane manufacturers.

Stabiliser cylinders awaiting coating.

A 4-metre-long load bar entering the chemical pre-treatment tunnel. The bulk of the production is sandblasted in an off-line manual cabinet.

34

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

Production takes place in three modern buildings with a total covered area of around 10,000 m2, and around 60 people employed. Next Hydraulics’ 2023 turnover was around 35 million Euros.

Next Hydraulics has always been looking for the increase of automation of its manufacturing stages, with major investments in robotics for coating and packaging, but also in logistics and its own internal lifting and handling systems. The design, development, and engineering of the three product lines are carried out entirely in its Technical Department, then tested in its in-house Trials Department.

In 2021, the company became part of the Swedish LIFCO Group, which brings together a number of European and global companies, all characterised by a high level of product quality, high sector specialisation, and an established market position. The LIFCO Group’s strong drive to strategically invest in key industrial sectors further motivated the move.

“Next Hydraulics is the only EU manufacturer of service cranes serving the North American market: all competitors are based in

www.cmautomazione.com

the US,” notes Francesco Filonzi, Production and Plant Manager at Next Hydraulics. “Lorries stabilisers account for the other half of our production: in this field, we are suppliers to all the most important truck crane manufacturers in Europe. Becoming part of the Swedish LIFCO Group has opened up new horizons for us while still ensuring the continuity of these product lines of excellence. Today, we sell to almost the entire world: our target markets are Italy, Europe including Great Britain, North and South America, Australia, the Middle East, and Mediterranean Africa.”

The production process “At our factory in Boretto, we design cranes and stabilisers in line with market developments and customer requirements,” explains Francesco Filonzi. “We develop, design, engineer, and prototype our products in-house, whereas for the custom manufacturing and machining of individual components we rely on the Emilia Romagna Industrial Hub. When we receive these back, we take care of the coating, assembly, testing, and shipping operations. Coating, therefore, is the only actual production step that takes place within our factory because we attach great functional importance to finishing. Our specifications call for applying a finishing with at least 80 microns of paint product with a salt spray resistance of at least

CM AUTOMAZIONE s.r.l.

Via Monte Bianco 20, 20833 Giussano (MB), IT - p.+39.0362.314075 - f.+39.0362.861222 - info@cmautomazione.it

500 hours and a glossy finish.”

Next Hydraulics’ automatic coating plant dates back to 2000 and at that time it was considered avant garde for its high automation with a layout, time and cicles designed to apply two-coat systems with solvent-based 2K paints. 60% of its products, particularly truck stabilisers, are coated after assembly in one colour, black, with a single-layer paint – a strategic choice to give them superior quality.

The remaining production (arms, bases, rods, cylinders, and so on) is

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

35

© ipcm

coated in the various colours specified by the customers with a two-coat primer + top coat system. “The plant had been designed for automatic electrostatic application, through 7-axis articulated robots, of both a solventbased 2K epoxy primer + polyurethane top coat and a solvent-based DTM coating devoted to that first 60% of production. As the company evolved, however, production grew exponentially, and the use of those solvent-based products was increasingly intensifying its environmental impact, both for waste and sludge and for atmospheric emissions,” explains Giovanni Benevelli, APTIndustry technical sales expert from Verind.

“With a view to obtaining environmental certification, two years ago, we switched from a solvent-based DTM product to a water-based one in cooperation with our paint supplier, Colorificio Sanmarinese,” indicates Francesco Filonzi from Next Hydraulics. “Currently, therefore, we use two coating systems: a solvent-based one,

Coating application with an articulated robot.

which includes a primer and a top coat and is applied on about 30% of our products, and a water-based, one-coat one. These are

© ipcm

applied in two coating booths, one devoted to the water-based DTM system, which has been equipped with technology supplied

by Verind, and the other for primer + top coat application, where Verind carried out its second intervention at the end of 2023 because it is will also soon switch to watersoluble technology for its applied two-coat system.”

Verind’s plant engineering intervention for transitioning from solvent-based to water-based products Previously, the solvent-based DTM coating was handled in the top coat application booth, as it was a 2K product, too. With the transition from solvent-based to waterbased technology, we integrated an EcoDose The new water-based DTM coating management unit set up by Verind.

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

machine into the primer booth to configure it to apply the new DTM

“However, we were able to find a high-performance solution that

paint,” explains Giovanni Benevelli from Verind. “Naturally, since this

enabled us to transition to a water-based coating on our existing

booth was previously devoted to primer application alone, we had to

plant, without any modifications to its booths or ovens. The upgrade

make a minor modification in the technical room to create a niche to

was also challenging in terms of layout: we had to choose where

transfer the solvent-based primer application system. However, it is

to integrate the water-based DTM technology to ensure a suitable

interesting to note that we managed to maintain the gun already in use,

process. The paint itself was developed in cooperation with Colorificio

although now fed by two separate feeding channels, one for the solvent-

Sanmarinese, which provided us with a DTM coating with the adhesion

based 2K primer and the other for the water-based DTM coating.

and sealing characteristics required by our products. The next step will

We developed a flexible, modular system that combines electrostatic

be developing a two-coat, water-based cycle as well. This will be a more

application with an automatic 2K paint dosing and mixing equipment

complicated step, which will certainly require plant modifications.”

using Gear Flow Meter technology with optic fiber; the EcoDose 2K

“Verind was already one of our suppliers and has earned respect and

equipment is an advanced electronic system for stoichiometric dosing

esteem from our management thanks to its ability to solve problems

and mixing of 2K/3K solvent-based, water-based, HS, and DTM coating

and foster mutual growth. The results we achieved are certainly positive,

products.”

and we have attained them within a tight timeframe because Verind

“The challenge was to harmonise the plant’s technology, which dates

made targeted changes to our system without revolutionising it. That

back to 2000, with these technological upgrades in its feeding and

has allowed us to continue producing with only minor downtime.”

application systems,” says Francesco Filonzi from Next Hydraulics.

© ipcm

© ipcm

Front view of the coating management unit with the EcoDose 2K dosing machine.

EcoDose 2K is an advanced electronic dosing system for 2K/3K paint products with fibre-optic Gear Flow Meter technology.

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

37

© ipcm

From left to right, Lara Malacarne, Luca Pezziga, and Francesco Filonzi from Next Hydraulics with Giovanni Benevelli from Verind.

The coating cycle Next Hydraulics’ coating plant accommodates 4-metre long load bars

The environmental sustainability targets achieved

that can carry one complete assembled stabiliser or a series of smaller

“In March 2024, we obtained ISO 14001 environmental certification,”

parts or components. Its takt time is 10 minutes. The parts arrive at

proudly says Luca Pezziga, Painting System Manager at Next Hydraulics.

the painting installation after sandblasting (most of them) or chemical

“This investment in water-based DTM technology, and therefore in

pre-treatment. Others, like the stabilisers’ cylinders, reach the factory

the systems needed for its management and application that Verind

with a primer layer already applied, and they are sent directly to the

provided us with, was part of a broader sustainability-oriented

water-based DTM product application. The parts that underwent

approach. Our factory is equipped with solar panels (108 kW capacity)

chemical pre-treatment go through an oven-drying and blowing phase.

for self-producing the energy required for our processes, and we have

The two coating booths are automatic and equipped with robots. Booth

always paid great attention to waste management, safety, and the

no. 1 applies both the solvent-based primer and the water-based DTM

creation of a healthy working environment.”

coating. This is followed by a 7-minute flash-off phase. Then, the top coat

“Indeed, the primary objective of this investment was undoubtedly the

is applied in booth no. 2. Finally, the components dwell in the baking

ISO 14001 certification,” concludes Francesco Filonzi. “The new water-

oven for 35/40 minutes. “The second intervention Verind performed

based DTM coating has helped us lower our product costs because,

on this plant was to prepare booth no. 2 for applying water-based

although this paint has a higher price than the one we used to apply,

products. Here, too, we integrated an EcoDose 2K machine. The existing

transfer efficiency is greater, so the yield is higher and, by reducing

mixVer system was suitably modified and upgraded to newer technology

overspray, it creates less waste and sludges to be disposed of, perfectly

so that it could be used for primer application,” illustrates Benevelli.

aligning with our objectives.”

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

3190335

WHERE WE HAVE BEEN

587286780206652081873141

AU

ONLINE-TICKET PaintExpo 2024 - Messe Karlsruhe

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With the exhibitor pass you may enter the venue multiple times during the event. In order to enable a swift access to the venue, please make sure to bring the printed exhibitor pass with

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you. Persons without registration are not permitted to enter the venue. The tickets are

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The most important industry events at your fingertips myFAIR is a free web app that can be accessed from both desktop and mobile devices, which allows you to stay up-to-date with the leading an ipcm app ®

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SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

44 BRAND NEW 46 HOW IT'S COATED

The New York City Library’s ‘Wizard Hat’ Coated with Fluropon® Patina Green

by Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings

52

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

A New Laser Scanner System for Pintarelli Verniciature’s Programming-Free, Automatic Powder Coating Plant: a Further Boost to the Quality of Its Certified Coatings

58 HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

From Raw Materials to Applied Colours: ST Powder Coatings at Fuorisalone 2024 to Make Powder Coatings the Stars of Design

62

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

72

ADVANCEMENTS

76

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

When Every Detail Matters: La Marzocco’s New Coating Plant

Bio-based Powder Coatings: the Next Frontier for Tackling Scope 3 Emissions?

TIGERator - The Ultimate Online Tool for 3D Surface Configuration

80 ADVANCEMENTS

Carbon Fibre Coating: Technologies and Solutions to Preserve Performance and Elegance

82 HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

An Industry at the Service of Design: Trends and Inspirations from Milan Design Week 2024

88 HOW IT'S COATED

AkzoNobel Painting a More Secure Future for Historic Dutch Windmills

90 SCIENCE OUTLOOK

A FEM Approach to Explore the Thermal Dynamics of Steel Parts During Powder Coating Process

98 FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

Towards Excellence: Pleion Revolutionises the Coating of Its Thermal Collectors with a New Plant

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

43

BRAND-NEW

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

The 52R SD Powder Coatings Series

by Europolveri Has Been Approved Qualicoat Class 2 Europolveri recently obtained the Qualicoat Class 2 approval for its 52R SD powder product architectural series.

E

uropolveri, one of Italy’s historical companies specialising in the manufacturing of powder coatings and headquartered in Sandrigo (Vicenza), has achieved another significant milestone:

the Qualicoat Class 2 approval for its 52R SD powder product series.

These are matte wrinkled finishes, also available in metallic and bonded versions.

“This certification is part of a growth project in the architectural market, aimed at strengthening Europolveri’s already wide presence in this sector, with the goal of providing customers with the widest range of products. Offering products that ensure ever-increasing durability reflects the company’s commitment to produce ever-higher quality powder coatings. Furthermore, the objective is clear: to increase the durability performance of our products so that they are more aligned with the average lifespan of the products on which they are applied, especially in the world of architecture. A long-lasting product is an environmentally friendly product,” stated the company.

About Europolveri Europolveri was founded in 1982 by Giuseppe Zaniolo, who, with its forward-thinking vision, recognised the need for innovation in the world of coatings. The founder’s spirit has been passed down to successive generations, who over the years have guided the company through strategic growth paths in terms of products, innovation, and opening new markets. Today, the company employs over 100 people and is a leader in the manufacturing of powder coatings in Europe. With a strong © Europolveri

entrepreneurial spirit, a people-oriented approach, a keen sensitivity to ecological and environmental contexts, and a predominant inclination

© Europolveri

towards research and development of innovative products and solutions, Europolveri is a historic and established brand in continuous and constant evolution.

For further information: https://europolveri.it/en/home-3-eng/

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

BRAND-NEW

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

The Way of Ethic Colors – Color Design® Lechler at Milan Design Week 2024 During Fuorisalone 2024, the event that takes place every year in conjunction with the Milan Design Week, Lechler, leader in the paint and surface treatments sector, presented “The Way of Ethic Colors”, a new project that proposes four collections that explore the ethical dimension of colour and create new chromatic and material landscapes for the interiors of our homes.

I

n recent years, we have witnessed a

 Equilibrium finds its essence in

paradigm shift in the real estate market,

harmony with nature, offering a palette of

thanks to greater awareness and

complementary colours, tonal greens and

INVOLVEMENT

social responsibility stemming from the

pinks, with matte and pearl finishes, which are

fundamental value of sustainability. Thus,

perfect for spaces in dialogue with the outdoor

the focus is on the recovery of real estate

environment.

heritage and urban regeneration, concepts

 Awareness reflects consciousness and

that aim to preserve, conserve, and renew,

durability, with neutral tones and iconic

maintaining the existing as much as possible.

materials that integrate into urban and

It is in this context that Lechler presents its

historical contexts, maintaining a long-

new project, Color Design “The Way of Ethic

lasting visual connection with the existing

Colors”, during Fuorisalone 2024.

environment.

“The Way of Ethic Colors” is born out of the

 Change expresses transformability through

awareness that colour is not just an aesthetic

vivid and saturated colours, designed to

element but also a tool capable of influencing

energize spaces and facilitate their adaptation

behaviors, promoting sustainability, and

to new needs or desires.

conveying ethical values. We could talk about

“The Way of Ethic Colors” is an invitation to

“dematurity” applied to the habitat sector:

professionals and enthusiasts to discover how

a process that sees the preservation and

color can become a powerful tool for change

renewal of living spaces through the use of

and innovation, in the name of ethics and

innovative and sustainable colour schemes.

social responsibility. With this project, Lechler

The new collection is structured into four

reaffirms its commitment to a future where

themes: Involvement, Equilibrium, Awareness,

beauty, innovation, and sustainability meet to

and Change, each of which interprets

create environments that inspire and enhance

different approaches to colour design, always

individual and collective well-being.

EQUILIBRIUM

AWARENESS

under the sign of sustainability. It guides people in their journey of mindset change, going from neutral and polymaterial schemes, designed to last over time, to polychromatic

For more information: www.lechler.eu CHANGE

and high-contrast solutions, intended to be easily updated or modified.  Involvement is inspired by emotional intensity, with colours ranging from blues to cold greys combined with warm and deep reds, ideal for creating spaces characterized by temporary chromatic and emotional focus. © Lechler

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

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HOW IT’S COATED

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

The New York City Library’s ‘Wizard Hat’ Coated with Fluropon® Patina Green

by Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings The Stavros Niarchos Foundation library’s Patina Green colour and “wizard hat” shape create new icon respecting historic design of former department store.

T

he Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library in New York City

Mecanoo of the Netherlands and Beyer Blinder Belle of New York

transforms the skyline of Midtown Manhattan by vertically

designed the repurposed 1914 property for The New York Public Library

expanding an historic building and creatively updating a former

(NYPL). NYPL moved into the building in 1970 and modestly renovated

department store. The award-winning project is pursuing LEED Silver

the interior 1978. Minimal changes to the existing space were made in

certification and welcomes all to the only free, publicly accessible roof

more than four decades.

terrace in the area.

Expanded upward from six to seven stories, the 180,000-square-foot

© John Bartelstone

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

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HOW IT’S COATED

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

(just over 16,700 square meters) modern

Hat,” described Francine Houben, creative

serve all. In this case, we were entrusted with

library’s immediately recognizable iconic form

director and founding partner of Mecanoo.

a historic building in New York City, one that

showcases a new, sculptural, geometrical,

In a joint statement, Houben and Beyer

receives millions of visits every year, but was

aluminium roof structure resembling the

Blinder Belle’s managing partner Elizabeth

never built to be a library. We needed to take

angular shape of a wizard’s hat. Highlighting

Leber shared: “Libraries are and will always

the bones of that building and reimagine the

the magic and knowledge of libraries,

be repositories of knowledge; but that

ultimate library.”

this distinctive metal roof is finished with

knowledge resides in its librarians as much

Respecting the century-old building’s

Fluropon Patina Green by Sherwin-Williams

as in its bookshelves. Working together with

architectural heritage, the Patina Green

Coil Coatings.

NYPL’s talented staff, our firms strove to meet

colour, while new, already appears to have

the library’s needs with an inclusive program,

gracefully aged with time and weather. The

humanistic planning and design, and iconic

signature Patina Green colour was inspired by

“The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library

architecture.”

the neighbourhood’s Beaux Art style, copper-

is a powerhouse of wisdom, and its street

Houben added, “Libraries are incredibly

clad, mansard roofs. Providing exceptional

presence brings drama and magic to

unique spaces, houses of knowledge and

colour retention and consistency to uphold

Manhattan, visibly expressed with its Wizard

creation that must inspire, welcome and

the project’s desired aesthetic, Fluropon 70%

®

Bringing wisdom, drama and magic

PVDF resin-based coatings will protect the metal for many years to come. This product, which is available in over 50,000 colours, is Sherwin-Williams flagship 70% PVDF coating system for architectural metal building products, which boasts superior durability and colour retention features.

Creating high-performance, visually impressive, valuable space Achieving the project’s performance requirements, Fluropon 70% PVDF resin-based coatings meet the industry-leading AAMA 2605 specification. This specification outlines the highest performance level for exterior aluminium coatings, resulting in outstanding resistance to humidity, chalking and gloss loss.

Fluropon coatings meeting this highperformance standard also successfully pass 4,000 hours of accelerated salt spray testing.

This is important in New York City as both a coastal environment and a climate that uses salt to mitigate roadway icing in winter. The finish also resists UV radiation and colour fading from direct daylight on sunny days.

Taking advantage of seasonal opportunities, the renovation included adding a rooftop terrace. This expanded the previously unused space into an attractive destination.

The L-shaped, wraparound outdoor venue © Leon van der Velden

welcomes all to enjoy its elevated patio,

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

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HOW IT’S COATED

© Max Touhey

urban garden and impressive city views. Houben said, “We created a

The painted and perforated screen wall metal panels to creatively

welcoming public space that will be beautiful and functional now and

conceal the HVAC equipment and enhance the Wizard’s Hat’s distinctive

100 years from now, with… a unique and beautiful Wizard’s Hat on top

visual appeal.

with a free public terrace.”

Delivering the intended visual effect, the Fluropon® coating in Patina

Balancing geometry, colour and longevity

Green on the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library’s wizard hat roof was

“For this particular project, the geometry and colour of the ‘Wizard’s Hat’

applied by Brightsmith using a factory-applied coil coating process to

played a key role in matching the patinated copper-clad mansard roofs

finish the numerous metal panels and attached snowguards.

that are seen on many iconic buildings throughout Midtown Manhattan,”

Rising 184 feet (approximately 56 m) above street level, the roof is clad

added Josh Younger, marketing manager at IMETCO.

ZIP-RIB aluminium panels from Merchant & Evans Co., Inc. (M&E), now

He explained, “The ZIP-RIB panel is a 2.5-inch-deep mechanically

Innovative Metals Co. Inc. (IMETCO).M&E provided 6,400 square feet

seamed cladding system for roofs and walls that can be factory-formed

(595 m ) of perforated screen wall panels plus 9,500 square feet

or field-formed depending on the demands of the project. ZIP-RIB

(882 m2) of solid roof and wall panels. M&E also supplied the library

panels accommodate complex roof configurations including convex and

roof’s internal gutters, fall protection, snow guards and custom light

concave curves and tapers.”

brackets – all were finished to match the panels in Fluropon Patina

“The ZIP-RIB panel has been a staple solution in the roofing industry

Green.

since 1964, with many original roofs installed as far back as 1970 still

“Several of the team’s design choices solve the functional needs of the

in operation today. This longevity has led to many lessons learned in

bustling central circulating library with iconic architectural gestures,”

the field that have produced useful solutions that we now rely on when

said Beyer Blinder Belle’s marketing manager Bisela Garrett. “Relocating

faced with new challenges,” elaborated Younger.

some of the building’s mechanical equipment to the penthouse level

Each panel’s position was determined by the architectural team to

above the new seventh floor frees up the valuable rooftop space for

present a rhythmic pattern that integrates with the seventh floor’s glass-

public uses.”

enclosed spaces. BIM and 3-D modelling helped ensure all the roofing

2

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

OptiCenter® All-in-One OC10

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

© Max Touhey

products were properly aligned before they arrived in the field.

Approximately 80% of the roof’s construction was prefabricated and assembled offsite, then shipped in sequence to the jobsite for installation. The Jobin Organization Inc. installed all the metal roofing components working in collaboration with general contractor Tishman Realty Construction.

Beyer Blinder Belle estimated that the prefabricated roof system saved two months in the construction schedule. The $200 million renovation project was completed in 2020 and officially opened in June 2021.

Fostering a better understanding

Maximum benefit in minimum space The OptiCenter All-in-One (OC10) powder management centre is equipped with the latest generation of OptiSpray All-in-One pump technology and guarantees the fastest powder output response times for consistent coating results.

Along with its two million items in circulation and more than 400,000 books, the library building also offers new educational and programming spaces. These include dedicated areas for children and teens, a career services learning centre, a world-class business centre, a multimedia studio, and classrooms for English language, literacy, media and technology training.

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library conveniently is located across the street from the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, which hosts NYPL’s reference collections and receives more than 1.7 million annual visitors. Together, they serve as NYPL’s Midtown Gema Europe Srl | Via Goldoni, 29 20090 Trezzano s/N | Italy T +39 02 48 400 486 gemapowdercoating.com

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HOW IT’S COATED

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

© Ossip Architectuurfotografie

Campus. The campus and its buildings reflect NYPL’s mission “to fight

NYPL president Anthony W. Marx summarized, “It is the central

ignorance, and provide New Yorkers with the tools that they need to

circulating library New York City has long needed, wanted, and deserves.

foster a better understanding of each other across racial and all other

As we all look towards our next chapter of recovery and renewal, it is

divides.”

important that learning and opportunity be readily and freely accessible

“Libraries are the most important public buildings of all,” emphasized

to all. There is no more important or better-timed civic infrastructure

Mecanoo’s Houben. “There is something to inspire every visitor in the

project to accomplish those ever present and pressing goals. We have

most diverse City in the world, and I am proud of that.”

waited a long time to give this great gift to the people of New York City.

Among the library’s many accolades, the project earned the Best

We are so proud to share it now when the needs are so pressing.”

Adaptive Reuse Award from the Municipal Art Society of New York’s

“This library is exactly what New York needs right now: a truly open and

2021 MASterworks Awards. It also received top honours as the Grand

public place accessible to all, where people of all ages and backgrounds

Award winner and New Metal Roofs category winner in the 2021 Metal

can experience wonder, grow in their understanding of the world,

Construction News Project Excellence Awards.

and launch on new trajectories that enrich life for all of us,” concluded

Commenting as an awards judge, Steve Dumez, FAIA, praised the roof’s

Andreas Dracopoulos, co-president and director of the Stavros Niarchos

multi-functional design saying, “It’s providing a public space, it’s providing

Foundation. In total, the Foundation provided more than $60 million in

a mechanical space, and it’s providing an architectural cap that’s very

support to NYPL.

dynamic… all of it adds up to a pretty wonderful piece.”

For further information: www.coil.sherwin.com

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

A New Laser Scanner System for Pintarelli Verniciature’s Programming-Free, Automatic Powder Coating Plant: a Further Boost to the Quality of Its Certified Coatings Monica Fumagalli ipcm®

Pintarelli Verniciature is one of the best-known companies in the contract powder coating industry thanks to its ability to anticipate market needs, its research into internationally certified processes, and its collaboration with universities and firms in the sector to study and develop quality-oriented solutions. The latest one, implemented in January, was a Dynamic Contour Detection system from Gema.

I

n our industry, quality certifications are

The former was created in 1986, when a

ensuring the quality of aluminium parts used

tools especially recognised and sought-after

number of national associations, including the

in architecture, involving not only applicators

by the most quality-conscious companies,

coaters of architectural components made of

but also various stakeholders in the aluminium

be they businesses coating their products

aluminium and its alloys, founded a structured

industry, suppliers of coating materials, and

in-house or contractors. The most prestigious

organisation capable of establishing rules

manufacturers of surface treatment chemicals.

international quality marks are QUALICOAT for

and procedures to increase and standardise

Similarly, in 2006, the steel coating industry felt

aluminium coatings and QUALISTEELCOAT for

quality levels throughout Europe. In recent

the need to set up a European organisation

steel coatings.

decades, QUALICOAT has played a key role in

with the same characteristics to guarantee the quality of liquid and powder-coated

© Durst

steel: QUALISTEELCOAT was thus created to promote the dissemination of culture on metal corrosion protection in different atmospheric environments. The first Italian company to have obtained and maintained this certification has been Pintarelli Verniciature Srl since 2013. Pintarelli Verniciature Srl specialises in contract powder coating of metal components for several different sectors, particularly architecture, air conditioning, and furniture.

Alessandro Pintarelli, the founder of this company based in Lavis (Trento, Italy) together with his sister Tiziana, explains: “Together with the QUALICOAT certification obtained in 2018 and our Qualicoat Class 3 approvals with paint suppliers AkzoNobel and TIGER Drylac®, this gives us a competitive edge over our competitors and is highly appreciated by companies requiring coatings with high corrosion protection properties, particularly

Durst’s headquarters in Brixen: in 2019, Pintarelli Verniciature powder-coated the aluminium components of its façade in compliance with the QUALICOAT certification standards.

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on components that have to travel long distances to destinations all over the world.”

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

Pintarelli Verniciature is a well-known player in the coating industry:

allowed us to change colour more quickly by eliminating the problem

always attentive to market evolutions and the development of new

of residual electrostatic fields. That enabled us to expand the range of

solutions, it has been collaborating with the Corrosion Control

powder RAL colours we could offer our customers. Between 2002 and

Laboratory of the Department of Industrial Engineering at the University

2003, the plant was fully upgraded to improve performance control and

of Trento for over thirty years, where it carries out application tests

increase production flexibility in terms of size, processable parts, and

and feasibility analyses, as well as initiating specific R&D projects of

colour range: the drying and curing ovens were replaced, and a new

common interest. “To maintain the high level of quality required by

four-stage pre-treatment tunnel was installed.”

these certification procedures, we need the best technology on the

Between 2008 and 2012, the company initiated a research project called

market. The latest innovation we have integrated into our coating line is

“Duplex: hot-dip galvanised steel coatability” in collaboration with the

the second-generation Dynamic Contour Detection system developed

University of Trento’s Corrosion Control Laboratory and a well-known

by Gema Europe Srl. Thanks to its new laser scanners, it ensures greater

hot-dip galvanising company based in the area. “The goal,” recalls

coating precision, increases transfer efficiency and finishing quality, and

Pintarelli, “was to verify the influence of the hot-dip galvanising process

eliminates any risk of error due to programming parameters.”

on the coatability of steel components.” Further applied research projects were conducted in the following years, between 2014 and 2023,

Pintarelli Verniciature: a powder coating pioneer

focusing on different topics such as coating durability, the influence of

Pintarelli Verniciature was founded in 1987 to provide a local customer

coatings on the environment, and the characterisation of low-e coatings.

with a liquid painting service, soon joined by powder coating, which was

2013 marked a significant turning point in the growth of Pintarelli

still uncommon at the time. “Our company has always had a pioneering

Verniciature, as it moved to a new 11,000 m2 headquarters to

vocation,” confirms Alessandro Pintarelli.

accommodate a new, fully automated coating plant and a new R&D

“This has led us to anticipate market demands on many occasions, also

division. “During the same period, as a result of our constant research

supported by the collaboration with the Corrosion Control Laboratory

studies on the corrosion protection of steel, we were among the first

of the University of Trento, started in 1993.” To keep abreast of this

companies to obtain QUALISTEELCOAT certification. In 2017, our

rapidly changing industry, the company has gradually integrated more

30th anniversary year, we integrated a new pre-treatment plant for

and more state-of-the-art plants and equipment, to such an extent that

aluminium in compliance with the QUALICOAT Product Certification

the whole history of Pintarelli Verniciature has been proceeding hand in

we obtained in 2018. Two years later, we focused on our application

hand with the progress of powder coating technology over the years.

equipment: we transformed our plant according to Industry 4.0

“In 1999,” says its owner, “we replaced our manual powder coating

parameters, installed Gema’s innovative powder feeding system

booth in galvanised steel with one made of dielectric plastics, which

Smart Inline Technology to replace its Venturi pumps to improve film

© ipcm

The monorail conveyor: this company coats iron, steel, galvanised steel, and aluminium components mainly for architecture.

© ipcm

The pre-treatment tunnel.

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SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Each individual gun is positioned and activated automatically and dynamically based on the precise digital reproduction of the piece, moving along an autonomous horizontal axis independent of the others. Right photo: the inside of the booth.

© Gema

© Gema

© Gema

distension and application quality, and replaced its powder centre with

structured that it even acts as a logistics hub for some of our customers,

Gema’s new OptiCenter OC07 unit to achieve optimal and consistent

storing their components and informing them when the stock starts to

coating results. Finally, in 2022, we installed a new fully automated

run low via data sharing software.”

stainless steel pre-treatment tunnel connected to our central management system; intending to completely automate our factory, we

Quality assurance certification protocols

also automated the paint warehouse using a MODULAR system. That

In Pintarelli Verniciature’s production department, the monorail

is how, although we started out as a simple coating contractor tied to

conveyor first takes the parts to the pre-treatment tunnel, which

one local customer, we have now achieved an enviable and diversified

performs the following stages: degreasing, two rinses with mains water,

customer portfolio in different sectors and geographic areas, including

deoxidation of aluminium and galvanised steel parts if required and

Switzerland and Austria.”

further rinse, two rinses with demineralised water, and application of

Beyond coating: from the Kanban system to assembly

Henkel’s Bonderite® APNR (Adhesion Promoter No Rinse). Once the parts are dried, the powder application phase can begin, followed by

Thanks to the improvement of its logistics and warehousing operations

oven-curing with a temperature of up to 200 °C and unloading.

and the integration of an assembly department, Pintarelli Verniciature

“The protocols for obtaining and maintaining our certifications entail

has developed into a full-fledged external production department for

frequent checks of the values both of the baths and of samples by

its customer companies, capable of providing an all-round service that

designated bodies such as Qualital. Thanks to the high quality of our

complements powder coating. “We directly purchase the components

pre-treatment and powder application phases, we can achieve corrosion

that must be mounted on the coated parts. Especially with architectural

class C5H even with Sendzimir sheet steel, which we paint in three coats,

parts, we can thus place them in their assembly kits and ship them

i.e. two layers of primer and one of top coat. We are the only company

directly to the construction sites. This has a double value for us: we

to provide this service, in response to a specific request from some

reduce our delivery times by providing a service that the market seemed

customers needing to achieve this corrosion protection class with this

to need for a long time and we further meet our customers’ needs with

type of sheet metal.”

an added-value operation.”

For Pintarelli Verniciature, one of its team’s most delicate jobs is making

To manage the purchase of steel and aluminium components and their

customers aware of the crucial role of surface quality: “In our workshops,

storage in its warehouse, Pintarelli Verniciature adopted the Kanban

we try to make our stakeholders aware of the importance of meeting

system. “Based on bar codes, it enables the warehouse manager to

minimum product requirements as an objective involving the entire

have full control over the level of supplies. Our warehouse is so well

supply chain, in order to achieve the expected corrosion and durability

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

properties, as defined by law and by the technical specifications of the QUALISTEELCOAT and QUALICOAT certifications. We also noticed that whereas until recently, very few clients requested this type of certification and it was always our team that brought it up first, today, especially in the field of architecture, a quality-oriented culture is spreading that also translates into the demand for these two certifications. And we are already prepared to meet it, thanks to the continuous updating of our systems, including the recent integration of Dynamic Contour Detection.”

Dynamic Contour Detection: key benefits “This technology,” illustrates Gianluigi Baroni, the Sales Manager of Gema Europe Srl, “uses laser scanners to detect the shapes of complex parts. The dynamic contour detection process takes place through two stages: reading and application. Installed at the booth’s entrance, the laser scanners work in two-dimensional mode and provide a digital image of the contour of the application area.

This data, combined with precise speed tracking via a dedicated encoder, generates an exact three-dimensional contour of the object, immediately sent to the MagicControl 4.0 device. Each individual gun is positioned and activated automatically and dynamically based on this precise digital reproduction, moving along an autonomous horizontal axis independent of the others.” Thanks to multi-angle technology, the scanners can detect the contours of the thinnest workpieces and the most complex shapes.

“We also changed the guns’ layout inside the booth,” emphasises Pintarelli Verniciature’s Production Manager, Paolo Ferrero, “significantly reducing the distance between one gun and the other.

This gave us greater control over the thickness and quantity of powder dispensed by each nozzle and improved our degree of quality and application efficiency thanks to higher dispensing consistency and, therefore, better film distension. Greater application control also means significant powder savings. Although this new system has only recently been integrated, one of its advantages is already clear: out of the three operators per shift in charge of pre- and post-finishing activities, one has already been transferred and assigned to other functions. That means we have assigned this people to logisticsrelated activities, which, as mentioned, are becoming increasingly relevant.”

A change of mindset “In addition to the concrete advantages brought by this new system,” adds Ferrero, “we are gradually changing the mindset of our operators, who were used to working by holding the powder application gun in their hands to carry out pre- and post-finishing operations. Now, on the other hand, they have to learn how to use another type of device, the Coatmaster® Flex, intended exclusively

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

© ipcm

© ipcm

The powder centre.

Pintarelli Verniciature offers all RAL colours but also, on request, tints from other systems, such as NCS.

for measuring coating thicknesses and, if there are any defects, adjust

the component is not compliant. Thanks to the new system installed by

the operating parameters on the MagicControl 4.0 touch screen. That

Gema, our guns can apply paint at the same distance and with the same

is undoubtedly a significant transition from a mechanical operation

flow rate even with calendered or concave sheet metal, which leads

where results were visible in real-time to a mental effort requiring to

not only to better film distension and powder savings (currently 20%)

understand which values need to be adjusted to improve the application

but also to full control of paint application, which does not exceed the

results. Once our operators have complete control of these new

thickness parameters imposed by the standard.”

functions, we will be able to work at full capacity.

In future, Pintarelli Verniciature also expects an increase in its

“Thickness control is carried out on a sample basis because, thanks

production capacity, as it will be less and less necessary to stop the

to the laser scanners of the Dynamic Contour Detection system,

conveyor to carry out manual touch-ups, which is also a significant

the recipes’ setting options make it easier to ensure high process

advantage in terms of end results. “We are finding fewer and fewer

repeatability. The process is more reliable, and its effectiveness can be

paint defects due to human error, such as the orange peel effect, and

compared to that of a numerical control machine, precisely because

we can provide products that are not only corrosion-resistant but also

the guns adapt to the thickness-related parameters for better coating

aesthetically pleasing, something that is also increasingly in demand in

results even with minimal thicknesses, such as those required by the

the architectural sector.”

architectural sector.”

Its far-sightedness and its ability to anticipate market needs and

Conclusions

react quickly to customer demands have made Pintarelli Verniciature one of the best-known companies in the contract coating industry.

“Despite my initial scepticism about the three-year ROI guaranteed

“We were among the first to study and refine a process to obtain

by Gema,” admits Alessandro Pintarelli, “I had to change my mind.

QUALISTEELCOAT certification, and this testifies to the attention to

For example, fire regulations for buildings are rapidly becoming

quality ingrained in our DNA, also evident when it comes to selecting

stricter and stricter, such as EN 13381-8, which defines the maximum

devices and equipment for our factory – such as Gema Europe Srl’s

thickness applicable to steel sheets: if the thickness value exceeds it,

Dynamic Contour Detection system.”

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HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

From Raw Materials to Applied Colours: ST Powder Coatings at Fuorisalone 2024 to Make Powder Coatings the Stars of Design Giulia Gentile ipcm®

Design is synonymous with shapes but also with colours. That is why Italian manufacturer ST Powder Coatings decided to present its products at Fuorisalone 2024, emphasising that colour is an essential element within the artistic design process of furniture and accessories.

D

esigning today is not only about creating sketches but also – and

its participation in Materially Now, the exhibition that celebrated

above all – researching. In today’s world, the path is part of the

materials during Design Week 2024 by involving many companies that

goal, and anything that goes into making an object contributes

are driving the evolution of this sector.

to determining its value. That is why, once again, Fuorisalone 2024

Process-oriented design

part of creating design pieces and which, in turn, develop from specific

ST Powder Coatings (Montecchio Maggiore, Vicenza, Italy) is a company

paths. It is precisely on this concept that ST Powder Coatings focussed

specialising in the production of powder coatings to be applied on metal

© ST Powder Coatings

decided to reserve a place of honour for materials, which are a crucial

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HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

surfaces for aesthetic and functional purposes.

For years, it has been offering a wide range of colours in polyester, epoxy-polyester, epoxy, polyurethane, and silicone systems, in both standard and customised formulations, with different degrees of gloss, from super-matte to glossy, and various textures, including smooth, rusticated, wrinkled, damascened, gator effect, and hammered. Precisely because of its ability to produce paint products with a very high aesthetic impact, it has established itself as one of the leading suppliers of powder coatings for the design and architecture sector. And, as it serves this market segment, it was natural for ST Powder Coatings to be present at Materially Now to disseminate knowledge about powders themselves.

“For us, taking part in this exhibition is a unique opportunity to prove our capabilities, highlighting the work done in our research and development laboratories,” stated the company’s owner, Marco Zadra, who also

© ST Powder Coatings

The powders and chips of ST Powder Coatings.

added: “Our installation shows the whole process of creating coatings, from raw materials to end products. We would like to make the Design Week visitors understand

© ST Powder Coatings

that finishes are not just a matter of colour but also involve other important functional and performance parameters. Understanding this process helps designers make more informed choices as they can grasp all the results that can be achieved through any given finish.”

Indeed, as anticipated, there seems to be a trend in the world of design, among both professionals and end consumers, towards paying greater attention to the history of objects: it is becoming increasingly important to know their origins, retrace their creation process, and identify the characteristics of the materials used. With this in mind, ST Powder Coatings created an evocative installation that could make design professionals aware of what lies behind what is trivially called “colour”.

The process starts with pigments: their mixture determines the recipe for the formulation of the powder coating being produced.

Overview of ST Powder Coatings exhibition at the Fuorisalone.

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

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SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

An all-Italian staging in an international setting

the endless possibilities of powder coatings.

such as colour, chemistry, and the technical functions that the paint must guarantee. Once

For ST Powder Coatings, this was the second

of products depend on the raw materials

the ingredients have been determined, they

participation in Fuorisalone. After the 2022

chosen for the paints and how they are

are mixed, passed through an extruder for

edition, the company chose to be present

subsequently processed, ST Powder Coatings’

uniform blending, subjected to a process of

again this year because the Materially Now

goal was to inform designers on these aspects

melting and re-solidification, and finally broken

event was an excellent opportunity to

and ultimately enable them to communicate

into “chips”, i.e. the semi-finished products

emphasise the quality of its products and their

their needs more precisely, in order to better

that are subsequently ground and reduced

key role in creating designer objects. “This

collaborate in finding the ideal solutions to

to very fine powder. “We aim to meet a need

event is part of Design Week, an international

realise the objects they have in mind.

for knowledge because when designing an

showcase where, at the same time, we are

object, it is necessary to know what is entailed

“playing at home”, demonstrating to foreign

in choosing a particular paint product in

visitors that the quality typical of Made in

Green Oasis: the sustainable powder coating line

terms of both aesthetics and functionality.

Italy can be found even in powder coatings,”

Precisely because the value of an object has so

What we wanted to achieve at the Fuorisalone

stated Enrico Dall’Igna, the marketing manager

much to do with the process that leads to its

was presenting an exhibition that explained

of ST Powder Coatings. At Materially Now,

creation, it is also more essential than ever to

the path from raw materials to semi-finished

ST Powder Coatings set up an exhibition

highlight any effort to reduce its environmental

products and finally to coatings ready to be

consisting of aluminium spheres coated

impact. ST Powder Coatings’ philosophy has

applied in the “language of the eyes”, so crucial

with smooth, matte, and micalised finishes,

always been focused on technical innovations

in this context,” explained Zadra.

allowing visitors to touch and see first-hand

geared towards developing solutions that

This recipe takes into account several variables,

As the aesthetic and functional characteristics

are not only aesthetically pleasing but also Aluminium spheres coated with a smooth, matte and mica finish.

bring tangible benefits to people and the environment. “Since 2012, our R&D lab has been on a pioneering path, working on the creation of coatings made from renewable raw materials. This commitment has been a turning point in the industry, leading to the creation of a series of innovative and sustainable products,” illustrated the company’s marketing manager.

Over the years, ST Powder Coatings’ R&D department has refined its insights, peaking with the development of a line of powder coatings called “Green Oasis”.

This is the culmination of the company’s efforts towards sustainable growth, as these coating systems not only offer superior performance and exceptional aesthetics but are also manufactured responsibly. “With the Green Oasis series, we want to provide our customers with high-quality products and, at the same time, the opportunity to actively contribute to environmental protection by choosing sustainable solutions for their coating needs. We are convinced that this

© ST Powder Coatings

new product line is a significant step forward in our commitment to promoting responsible

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HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

practices. We know that professionals in the design world pay special

© ST Powder Coatings

attention to these issues, so we are happy to be at the Fuorisalone to showcase our solutions,” added Zadra.

During the most important week of the year for the design sector, ST Powder Coatings thus enthusiastically presented itself to industry insiders with a strong desire to share insights. Its aim was to prove itself as a partner capable of “giving colour” to designers’ and architects’ ideas by developing customised powder coatings for their projects. “Our hope for the present and future is to continue to be a benchmark supplier in this thriving sector. Our goal is to sit down with designers and architects and illustrate our manufacturing process, making clear that not only the colour but also the gloss and texture of their objects strongly depend on the substances used to produce the selected paints and their processing methods ,” concluded Marco Zadra.

From left to right Francesco Stucchi, Sales Director of ipcm®, Alessia Venturi, Editor-in-Chief of ipcm® and Marco Zadra, owner of ST Powder Coatings.

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

When Every Detail Matters: La Marzocco’s New Coating Plant Ilaria Paolomelo, ipcm®

A cutting-edge, water-based coating cycle, a new plant designed by Silvi in collaboration with Futura and CMA Robotics, and a water treatment system supplied by Water Energy to optimise environmental sustainability: these were the technical choices made by La Marzocco, an Italian manufacturer of excellence in the industry of high-end professional coffee machines.

I

n the world of premium coffee, a symphony of elements converges

La Marzocco stands out in this field as a leading Italian company in

to create an unparalleled taste experience: every detail matters, from

the handcrafted production of high-end professional coffee machines.

the beans’ selection to the grind’s precision. However, one aspect

Founded in the heart of Tuscany in 1927, it has been able to combine craftsmanship and technological innovation to create true works of

coffee lovers who appreciate not only this drink’s taste but also the

functional art.

rituality and art of coffee preparation, coffee machines are much more

Every coffee machine produced by La Marzocco is the result of a

than just tools.

relentless commitment to excellence: in addition to guaranteeing

© AdobeStock

that is often overlooked is the design of the coffee machine. Yet, for

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

superior performance, these objects are designed to enrich the

An Italian icon around the world: La Marzocco

environments in which they are placed with peculiar, refined design.

The history of La Marzocco is a testimony to passion, tradition, and

Every detail, from the selection of materials to the choice of finishes, is

innovation that has deep roots in the heart of Florence. Founded way

handled with the utmost attention.

back in 1927 by two brothers ahead of their time, Giuseppe and Bruno

Coating plays a crucial role in this constant quest for excellence. “It is

Bambi, this company started out as a small workshop where coffee

not simply a matter of surface protection but rather a fundamental

machines were tailor-made with great care and dedication. “In the early

element in giving our products that touch of style and sophistication

1900s, coffee underwent a significant transformation by becoming

that sets them apart,” states La Marzocco’s Purchasing Operations

espresso, i.e. freshly prepared, thanks to innovative espresso

Manager Elena Ciuffi. That is why the company recently decided to

machines that helped enhance its qualities,” explains Giada Biondi,

equip its production plant, located in Scarperia (Florence, Italy), with

Communications Manager at La Marzocco. “For this reason, from its

a new coating system designed and installed by Silvi Srl (Peregallo di

earliest stages, our company has been and still is characterised by

Lesmo, Monza e Brianza, Italy), specialising in surface treatments for

its focus on the quality of coffee extraction, recognising the crucial

over thirty-five years. The project also involved other leading partners

importance of this process for the consumer experience.”

in the coating sector, including Futura Convogliatori Aerei (Robecco

At the same time, what has distinguished La Marzocco from the

Pavese, Pavia, Italy), CMA Robotics (Pavia di Udine, Udine, Italy,) and

beginning has been its open and future-oriented mindset: while

Water Energy (San Pietro in Casale, Bologna, Italy). As well as improving

remaining true to its heritage and Florentine roots, influenced by

coating quality, the resulting plant is also going to speed up production,

the Renaissance and the aesthetic concept of Beauty, it has also

enabling the company to meet its customers’ requests in a more

always welcomed customer feedback in a constructive manner,

flexible and timely manner.

thus constantly reinventing itself and expanding its horizons. “1939 was an eloquent example of this, as the Bambi brothers decided to market the world’s first horizontal-boiler espresso machine. This © La Marzocco

innovation improved ergonomics thanks to a more efficient layout of the dispensing units while, at the same time, the absence of a vertical column improved the interaction between baristas and customers, giving them a chance to have a conversation. This originated the convivial, socialising aspect associated with the preparation of coffee in cafés, which became a meeting and sharing opportunity,” Biondi adds.

In the following years, La Marzocco continued to evolve by adapting the design of its machines to historical contexts and consumer needs.

“In the 1950s, for example, it embraced the trend of lever machines, which enabled to prepare perfectly creamy coffees thanks to constant, 9-bar pressure for extraction. The period of the post-war economic boom, which corresponded with the entry into the company of Piero Bambi, Giuseppe’s son, marked a crucial moment for La Marzocco’s success: thanks to their refined design and revolutionary technology, including horizontal boilers and the use of stainless steel instead of copper, its machines became synonymous with reliability, durability, and high performance, first locally and then internationally.

In the first coffee machines, the brewing groups were placed on a vertical column.

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SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

© ipcm

Overview of the loading area of the plant (left) and the pre-treatment tunnel tanks.

Customised production and maximum attention to finishing Customised production and attention to finishing are the distinctive traits of La Marzocco. “Each machine is characterised by recognisable aesthetics, with the predominant use of steel and exposed assemblies, but it is fully customisable to suit customer preferences,” says

“Especially in the last decade, we have opened key subsidiaries in China,

Ciuffi. “Since 2014, we have experienced exponential growth in our

the US, South-East Asia, Scandinavian countries, Australia, the UK, and

production. Although we currently produce 40,000 units per year,

lately also in the Middle East. Recently, there has been higher and higher

however, we still manage to carry out traditional craftsmanship

demand for La Marzocco machines in Italy, France, and Spain, too: a

operations. Our factory has no assembly lines, and each machine is

trend that reflects a growing interest in the quality of coffee and the

produced with the utmost care and attention by our employees. Over

experience associated with it. Indeed, La Marzocco has espoused the

the years, we have forged significant and fruitful partnerships with a

specialty coffee movement – supporting the use of coffee of excellence,

number of local suppliers that provide us with pre-formed metal sheets

rated 80+ by experts – embracing the quest for the highest quality,

and the mechanical components needed to build our machines. Within

authenticity, and customisation of the taste experience to reach the

our production department, we deal exclusively with the welding of

target clientele of coffee connoisseurs. We have also contributed to

boilers, which are the heart of our machines, using automatic robots,

enhancing the barista profession by sponsoring world championships

as well as the assembly and testing phases – plus, for a few weeks now,

and training courses, recognising its crucial role in transforming coffee

the coating step.”

from a raw material into an extraordinary drink. Finally, the latest

La Marzocco recently decided to insource its coating operations to

breakthrough occurred in 2015, when La Marzocco launched the La

achieve higher finishing quality and extreme customisation flexibility.

Marzocco Home division, introducing a line of coffee machines for home

“We used to outsource this delicate phase to four companies

use.”

specialising in contract coating. However, our machines have three

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

EQUIPMENT FOR

powder coating le tue attrezzature necessitano di un

REVAMPING?

© ipcm

to five coated parts each, and, unfortunately, having components painted by different contractors often led to colour-matching and coating uniformity issues. The decision to install a coating line gave us greater control over the process, ensuring that each machine has a uniform, high-quality finish in line with our exacting standards.

These are the factors that prompted us to invest in a coating plant,” indicates Ciuffi. La Marzocco has two production lines: one for producing professional coffee machines and grinders and one for its Home range. “We use six colours for our professional products: white, black, red, yellow, light blue, and metallic silver, as well as some limited editions. For the Home product range, we use a much wider selection of tints,” she notes.

“Finishing is an integral part of our quality concept. Every machine must be perfect and tailored to the customer’s specifications.

Finishes and custom elements are not just aesthetic details for

contattaci!

Smantellamento e ripristino.

Modifica o sostituzione di parte dei componenti.

Adeguamento alle norme di sicurezza vigenti.

Sviluppo di processi di miglioramento delle prestazioni.

us but key differentiators. Through constant communication with distributors all over the world, we realised that many of our machines were being adjusted locally to meet customer requirements: therefore, we decided to offer a customisation service ourselves to ensure that each La Marzocco machine is perfectly in line with our customers’ expectations,” says Matteo Urzetta, Purchasing Specialist at La Marzocco.

Find out more about ZEUS

www.zeus-el.it

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

The new liquid coating plant The new line installed in February 2024 was designed to coat mainly AISI 304 and 43 steel sheets. The plant features a highstability, power&free inverted conveyor supplied by Futura Convogliatori Aerei, specifically developed to enable the in-line chemical pre-treatment of the parts in a tunnel performing five stages: degreasing, two rinses with mains water, a rinse with demineralised water, and the application of a no-rinse passivating agent. “DN Chemicals (Caleppio, Milan, Italy) developed the chemical products. Currently, it is also helping us assess the possibility of adding a stage for the application of a nanotechnology passivating agent by atomisation to make the pre-treatment cycle even more efficient,” explains Urzetta.

“The application of the nanotechnological passivation product DOLLCOAT SA 116 can in fact improve the anti-corrosion properties and promote the paint adhesion. The main problem to be solved was not the cleaning of the surfaces and their passivation, but the total removal of glue residues used in the peelable films that protect the metal before mechanical © ipcm

The paint supply system.

processing and pre-treatment. These glues tend to leave residues in parts with folds or more complex geometries, making it necessary to use specific additives for their complete removal", explains André Bernasconi, General Manager of DN Chemicals.

The components are then taken to an air-blowing booth and a drying oven. Afterwards, the automatic paint application phase begins inside three booths equipped with robots supplied

by CMA Robotics. “The booths are devoted respectively to the application of the primer, coloured base coat, and clear coat and feature an overspray collection system with a water curtain and a grid bottom with a water collection tank underneath,” illustrates Silvi’s Sales Manager Daniele Fumagalli. “We have created heated flash-off areas and storage buffers between one booth and the other. In addition, there are hot water batteries above the booths and flash-off areas, connected with a heating plant to maintain constant temperatures from 60 to 80 °C. Finally, all the areas that make up the line are pressurised, heated, and air-conditioned.”

“Based on La Marzocco’s requirements, we supplied three different drying ovens in line with the types of paint products used. For primer drying, the company wanted to maintain relatively low temperatures, so we supplied an oven featuring a generator with a hot water battery; for drying the coloured

© ipcm

The paint application phase takes place inside three booths (primer, coloured base coat and clearcoat) equipped with robots supplied by CMA Robotics.

base coat and clear coat, on the other hand, we installed two convection ovens with direct exchange burners because they needed much higher temperatures,” adds Fumagalli. After coating, the components are finally conveyed into a storage buffer with forced cooling before reaching the unloading area.

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FILTRAZIONE PER IMPIANTI DI VERNICIATURA FILTERING FOR FINISHING LINES

rotoli, pannelli e celle in fibra di vetro

rolls, panels and cells of glass fiber

celle filtranti per alte temperature

filtering cells for high temperatures

rotoli e pannelli in fibra sintetica

rolls and panels of synthetic fiber

accumulatore vernice “Columbus”

paint accumulator “Columbus”

filtri “Andreae”

“Andreae” filters

cartucce filtranti

filtering cartridges

filtri assoluti applicazioni speciali

absolute filters special application

FILTRO ALVEOLARE MAX PAINT distributori esclusivi per l’Italia

massima efficienza massimo accumulo di vernice massima durata

=

minori costi di smaltimento minori costi di manutenzione

L’esclusivo design alveolare permette di trattenere quantità di overspray notevolmente superiori rispetto ai filtri oggi in commercio

www.defil.it

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

© ipcm

“Thanks to the high flexibility of the plant, in addition to the technical end-of-shift emptying operations, it is possible to compensate for any differences in process times, also taking advantage of the intermediate storage buffers included in the conveyor’s layout. In addition, the integrated command and control system not only connects all the various stations but also enables to acquire data online and match it with the code assigned to each load bar. This data is then sent to the management system during the unloading phase,” indicates Stefano Gerletti from Futura Convogliatori Aerei.

Water-based clear coat: a major technological challenge “A small part of our production is powdercoated, but over 90% of the components we manufacture are liquid-coated by electrostatic application. Given our strong focus on environmental impact reduction and sustainability, we have chosen to use only water-based paints by relying on Vernici © ipcm

Caldart (Pojana Maggiore, Vicenza, Italy),” states Elena Ciuffi. “We immediately found the perfect primer and coloured base coat products. The challenge was finding an acrylic two-component transparent top coat that would suit our production. Water-based clear coats are a very innovative product from a technological point of view, but they present several problems, especially related to yellowing over time. Through a process of research and development and after several tests, we overcame these issues and found the right solution to guarantee this product’s high quality and durability. This success certainly represented an important step forward in our quest for high-quality, environmentally friendly finishes.”

Water treatment: a key pillar for environmental sustainability “The importance we place on the ecological impact of our activities is reflected in every The application control units and the PLC of the water treatment plant supplied by Water Energy.

stage of our production. We are actively trying to reduce our ecological footprint and improve

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

the sustainability of our production processes. We

Water-based paints tend to generate more foam than

will soon install photovoltaic panels to cover part

solvent-based ones as they contain surfactants that

of the new coating line’s energy needs.” As for the

keep the product fluid and promote its adhesion to

actual coating phase, La Marzocco relied on Water

the workpieces during application.

Energy’s know-how to install several innovative water

“However, we believe this can be managed

treatment solutions. Based in Bologna (Italy) and

effectively by carefully and precisely identifying the

specialising in coating water treatment plants, this

ideal chemical products. Water Energy supplied

company supplied three Skimmerflot 3000 series

La Marzocco with various chemicals, including

sludge separators, one for each application booth.

flocculants, denaturants, defoamers, and a pH

“The Skimmerflot units operate by mechanically

corrector that also acts as a sanitiser.” The addition

separating sludge from water, allowing it to emerge

of a flocculant helps lump the sludge produced in

and be removed through continuous skimming

the booth and the denaturant prevents the paint

of supernatant particles, which are sent to special

from remaining sticky once it comes into contact with

containers equipped with drainage bags. To facilitate

water, promoting the formation of micro-flakes that

the separation of pollutants and the flotation of

float in the collection tank. This way, the system’s

sludge, Water Energy uses micronised air injected

pump can recirculate the water without recirculating

directly into both the feeding circuit and the bottom

the sludge. Afterwards, a flotation system further

of the reaction tank,” says Tommaso Ponara, the

separates the floating sludge, which is then sent

owner of Water Energy. “We also installed an

to the Skimmerflot unit, where it is removed and

automatic demineralisation system in the pre-

gathered in a dedicated collection tank. This process

treatment tunnel with the aim of continuously

results in highly solid eluate, reducing residual

recirculating the demineralised water used in the last

moisture in the sludge and improving its drainability

rinsing phase, to maintain the rinsing water’s quality

once collected in bags for disposal. The system was

high and prevent the presence of any residues from

designed in line with the Industry 4.0 parameters

jeopardising optimum paint adhesion.”

and allows remote monitoring and intervention to

COMPLETE SOLUTIONS for

HANGING and

MASKING

© ipcm

Water Energy supplied three Skimmerflot 3000 series sludge separators - one for each application booth.

www.rostirolla.it

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

solve any problems that may arise, as well as displaying process parameters and any anomalies.

“In addition, La Marzocco has joined a Plastic Free programme to further reduce the environmental impact of its business. We supply full drums in exchange for empty ones to encourage reuse and avoid plastic disposal.

If any drums are damaged, we are committed to recycling them for other activities, always ensuring responsible waste management and promoting environmental sustainability,” indicates Tommaso Ponara.

Quality, sustainability, and innovation The new coating line, which has only been operational for a few weeks, is the result of months of work and technological testing by all the companies involved. “We chose Silvi as our © ipcm

partner to design and install our system after careful market research. Its team was willing

After painting, the components move on to the assembly phase.

to support and introduce us to the world of coating, in which we had little experience and technical knowledge. We are also pleased with the collaboration with all the other partners that worked on this project and contributed to its success.”

“Installing this new coating line was a significant step forward for La Marzocco, as it solved many of the logistical and quality-related challenges we faced with external contractors.

The increase in production year after year and the growing demand for customised finishes for our Home line made this plant essential for maintaining high quality standards and avoiding interruptions in our workflow.

“One of our next goals is to obtain B Corp certification as a company committed to assessing and improving its environmental and social performance with the same attention traditionally paid to economic results. This © ipcm

La Marzocco showroom.

commitment is also reflected in our choice to use water-based paints, the water treatment system we selected, our participation in Water Energy’s Plastic Free programme, and the installation of solar panels,” concludes Ciuffi.

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

PUT QUALITY ON REPEAT Let‘s talk about injector technology. A technology that you should keep an eye on.

Actually, it‘s just getting started. And now, Flowsense takes it to a new level.

FLOWSENSE? It‘s a software masterpiece and a bunch of small sensors that do big things: Consistent powder output from the first to the thousandth workpiece.

Put quality on repeat!

go.wagner-group.com/flowsense

© Axalta

ADVANCEMENTS

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Bio-based Powder Coatings: the Next Frontier for Tackling Scope 3 Emissions?

Sally Put Axalta Coating Systems GmbH, Basel - Switzerland

sally.put@axalta.com

In order to help its customers to minimise their carbon footprint, Axalta developed Alesta® BioCore™: a new range of powder coating solutions derived from non-food organic waste that replaces traditional polyester resins with an alternative based on natural materials, reducing CO2 emission by up to 25%.

S

urface coatings are in many ways the unsung heroes of the

The same performance requirements that one would associate with

construction and architectural world. Though perhaps not the first

surface coatings must also be reconciled with ever more stringent

thing that springs to mind when thinking of a beautiful design, they

sustainability pressures.

play a crucial role in enhancing aesthetics and improving the durability of

The question, now is how surface coatings can also contribute towards

surfaces. Structures that withstand the test of time are inherently more

the environmental and sustainability goals of a project? The answer: more

sustainable and high-quality surface coatings can support this aim.

so than many people think.

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

© Axalta

ADVANCEMENTS

The rise of sustainability

Nations, businesses face mounting pressure to

largest portion of overall emissions and while

In the space of a few short years, sustainability

demonstrate their impact towards emissions

this represents an invaluable opportunity, this

has gone from being a peripheral concern

goals. This need for transparency is at the heart

also comes with additional complexity.

to one of the main priorities of the coatings

of an intense focus on identifying potential

This requires a business to look at the entire

industry and its customers. Across these

opportunities for improvement.

value chain and how each step contributes to

industries, businesses are continuously looking

the overall impact.

for ways to reduce their environmental impact,

Easy as (scope) 1-2-3!

A large number of emissions reside within the

eliminate waste and utilise resources more

Architectural and manufacturing businesses

raw materials that comprise powder coatings

efficiently.

have all made enormous progress in tackling

solutions, bringing the strategic importance of

People increasingly want to work with

emissions across their own operations. And

supply chains into clear focus.

sustainable businesses, so continuous

yet, even if we factor in the additional impact

improvement is a must in order to remain

of scope 2 emission reductions, it is clear that

Small changes, big results

competitive. Against the backdrop of the

cutting scope 3 emissions holds the greatest

If we consider the makeup of conventional

Sustainable Development Goals of the United

potential impact. Scope 3 accounts for the

powder coatings, it is clear that much of their

Besuchen Sie uns: Halle 1 Stand B 48

PERFECT

SURFACES www.walter-ultraschall.de

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

embodied carbon is contained within the polyester resins that are a key

Introducing Alesta® BioCore™

ingredient. Spotting an opportunity, Axalta developed Alesta BioCore™ ,

Providing a sustainable alternative to incumbent products containing

a range of powder coating solutions derived from non-food organic waste.

fossil fuel-based polyester resins, Alesta BioCore will be on sale in Europe

By replacing traditional polyester resins with an alternative based on

from 21st May 2024 and includes:

natural materials, which are inherently less carbon intensive to source

 Alesta SD BioCore Architectural SuperDurable, a range of super

®

1

than their fossil fuel counterparts, can deliver a CO2 reduction of up to

durable biobased powder coatings formulated with high performance

25%. Such benefits can be accessed immediately by switching to Alesta

exterior grade pigments of the highest quality. This Qualicoat Class II- and

BioCore and without any drop in performance, since they offer the same

AAMA2604-certified product line delivers exceptional weather and UV

properties and benefits. For customers targeting a reduction in scope

resistance and is backed by a warranty of up to 25 years;

three emissions, it provides an effective and immediate route to achieve

 Alesta AP BioCore Architectural, a range of standard durable biobased

their sustainability goals.

powder coatings formulated with high quality exterior grade pigments.

The green supply chain

Designed for outdoor architectural substrates and outdoor structures such as cladding, it is compliant with standards such as Qualicoat Class I,

Earlier in 2024, Axalta became the first manufacturer within the powder

AAMA 2603 and GSB Florida 1 (Standard) and is backed by a warranty of

coatings industry to receive International Sustainability and Carbon

up to 15 years;

Certification PLUS (ISCC PLUS) for biobased feedstock sourcing practices.

 Alesta IP BioCore Industrial, a range of biobased powder coatings for

As customers become increasingly focused on tackling scope 3 emissions,

outdoor industrial applications, offering excellent weather resistance,

the appeal of verifiable and fully-traceable feedstock sourcing practices

outstanding mechanical properties for outdoor durability, and first-rate

will only continue to grow. Choosing to source feedstock from non-food

reactivity.

waste can be seen as a more responsible choice. as it does not create any additional burden on food supply.

1

www.axalta.com/biocore

© Axalta

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

WANNA REACH HIGHER QUALITY? THE ANSWER IS OUR PRETREATMENT

BASED ON NANOTECHNOLOGY

High technology Better paint adhesion Low environmental impact

Tel. +39 0432 908578 www.imelspa.com - info@imelspa.com Via Divisione Julia 10, 33033 Codroipo, UD - Italy

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

TIGERator - The Ultimate Online Tool for 3D Surface Configuration From an interview with Daniel Pelikan TIGER Coatings GmbH & Co. KG, Wels – Austria

The new TIGERator allows to create real-time, realistic renderings of products coated with TIGER Drylac® finishes in different colours, gloss and surface textures directly in the web browser, ending the lengthy brainstorming and decision-making processes and helping to choose the perfect powder coating finish for each project in a matter of seconds.

I

n the dynamic landscape of industrial design, envisioning the

Users can now access a vast library of common objects already

perfect finish for a project has often been a challenge. However,

uploaded onto the platform and apply digital representations of TIGER

with advancements in technology, particularly in the realm of 3D

Drylac® powder coating finishes in an array of colours, effects, and

visualisation and digital rendering, the process has become significantly streamlined.

textures.

During the first day of PaintExpo, the leading trade fair dedicated to

The new TIGERator digital visualisation tool

industrial painting and coating technologies held at the Karlsruhe

By digitising real-world surfaces and simplifying the process of applying

Exhibition Centre (Germany) from 9 to 12 April 2024, TIGER unveiled

powder coating finishes, the TIGERator offers new possibilities for

its new digital tool: TIGERator represents a significant leap forward in

visualising and creating design concepts.

the realm of powder coating visualisation. Building upon their previous

Originally conceived as a solution for architects and product designers,

software, which allowed users to upload 3D renderings of their projects

the tool has evolved to cater to a broader audience, including coating

and experiment with different colours and finishes, TIGERator now

companies and job-shop. The TIGERator particularly provides job shop

offers an even more comprehensive solution.

customers with an indispensable tool for the often-lengthy process of

th

© TIGER Coatings

th

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

defining materials. The selection process can thus be made significantly

preview of a variety of TIGER powder coatings applied on selected 3D

more efficient – impacting good customer service. Ultimately, the

models, in order to bring their vision to life. Its capabilities will also

TIGERator is the perfect digital supplement to conventional colour cards,

expand in the near future, with plans to introduce metallic colours,”

clearly setting TIGER apart from its competition. This also completes

declared Daniel Pelikan, Online Marketing Specialist for TIGER.

the sustainability cycle by substantially decreasing paper consumption through minimised use of printed colour cards.

TIGERator is easy to use

The key to its effectiveness lies in its simplicity and realism. The digital

The process of using TIGERator is straightforward and intuitive.

surfaces included in the tool dataset are based on real scans of powder-

Users begin by selecting a 3D model from the extensive library,

coated surfaces, providing users with an unparalleled level of accuracy.

categorised by application areas such Architecture, Design Elements,

With just a few simple steps, users can obtain a realistic preview

Furniture, Transportation, General Industry, and more. Once a model

complete with the desired powder coating finish. This preview serves

is chosen, users can browse through the extensive range of TIGER

as a valuable aid in decision-making, allowing users to visualise the final

Drylac® products and select the desired colours, textures (i.e. rough,

appearance of a product before any physical work begins.

hammertone, and fine texture) and effects. With a simple drag-and-drop

“The digital surfaces included in the tool dataset are based on real

interface, users can apply the chosen finish to the 3D model and check it

scans of powder-coated surfaces, offering the unique opportunity to

from all angles, rotating and it as needed.

paint rendered objects with powder at the click of a mouse or via touch.

The tool allows to apply different finishes to the several parts composing

With just a few steps, the users can finally obtain a realistic and useful

the selected component and examine the result with a light source

© TIGER Coatings

The selection of the desired powder coating finish.

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

77

© TIGER Coatings

An example of application.

coming from the top, in order to understand how the reflection will

Rendering is web-based and live – with no comparable service available

influence its appearance.

on the market.

Additionally, users can also leverage an augmented reality (AR)

“We already had offered our product coatings as digital scans for three

functionality, allowing them to visualise 3D models in real-world

years. These are digital files that weigh more than 50 megabytes, so until

environments, providing invaluable insights into scale and appearance.

now they were mostly used by architects and product designers. It was a

“We wanted to grant customers the ability to examine how a particular

great solution for them, because by adding the desired powder coating

finish looks on a real-word object. For example, you can take a picture of

finishes on their digital model, they could understand the appearance

your car, select a finish for the wheel and position it in front of your car,”

of colours, the surface structure and its gloss in a realistic manner”,

explained Pelikan. Once satisfied with the design, users can download

added Pelikan. “But the previous version required specific software and

it with a single click, share it with collaborators and customers or they

a license, as well as someone who was able to operate the software

can proceed directly to the web-shop, refer the product data sheet and

and create 3D models and renderings. So, it was not accessible to every

purchase it in the TIGER Webshop.

coating company or every architect. But now we have installed a 3D

TIGERator is accessible to everyone One of the standout features of TIGERator is its accessibility. The tool operates entirely within a web browser, eliminating the need for

scanner in our headquarters, so each newly-produced panel or product is being scanned and uploaded on the tool, so that users don’t need to do that themselves.”

additional software installation or updates. This means users can get

From digital to real samples

started right away on a desktop or on mobile devices with an internet

“TIGERator represents a groundbreaking advancement in powder

connection, simplifying collaboration with customers and partners.

coating visualisation, offering users a simple yet powerful tool for

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

How to use TIGERator, at a glance 1. Open the TIGERator webpage: www.tigerator.com; 2. Make your selection from an extensive 3D library of application areas such as Architecture, Furniture Transportation, General Industry, and More; 3. Decide on a model that you would like to coat digitally with TIGER Drylac® powder coating; 4. Browse through the extensive TIGER Drylac® product range and select the appropriate finish; 5. Drag and drop the desired surface onto the 3D model and view it from all angles by rotating and turning it; 6. Download the design with one click or share it easily with your customers and partners; 7. Go to the TIGER webshop and use the possibility to order original effect samples coated with TIGER Drylac®, download TIGER Digital Finishes

© TIGER Coatings

for CGI rendering programs or buy the powder coating product directly;

bringing their design visions to life. With its realistic representation, ease of use, and accessibility, it is poised to revolutionise the way designers, architects, and manufacturers approach powder coating selection and application,” concluded Pelikan. “Although it provides an incredibly realistic representation of the final product, some degree of variation may occur, depending on the quality of the display device. To ensure complete satisfaction, we then offer the option to request a real sample of the chosen powder coating finish, allowing users to verify the colour, effect, gloss, and structure firsthand.”

Scan the QR Code to see everything users can achieve with TIGERator in just 1 minute and 45 seconds

KNOW-HOW, EXPERIENCE, AND RELIABILITY For decades, Radial has been designing, building and installing tailor-made coating plants for metals, plastics and wood. Our systems are the ideal choice for those who desire a cutting-edge turnkey solution.

w w w. r a d i a l g r o u p s r l . i t

ADVANCEMENTS

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Carbon Fibre Coating: Technologies and Solutions to Preserve Performance and Elegance Claudia Salomoni Marketing Manager Industry, Lechler SpA - Como, Italy

claudia.salomoni@lechler.eu

Choosing the right products and processes for coating carbon fibre is crucial to preserving its properties and enhancing its aesthetics. The right system, including the 30100 CARBON PRIMER TRX FILLER primer and the 30102 CARBON LOOK FINISH clear coat, ensures a high-quality, weather-resistant finish. The pigmented primers 30101 Carbon Grey Filler and 30103 Carbon Black Filler also allow experimenting with a wide range of effects and finishes. Lechler’s goal is to provide solutions that improve the aesthetic and mechanical characteristics of carbon fibre and make any creative customisation possible.

T

hanks to its exceptional strength and lightness properties,

making it ideal for applications requiring both high performance and

carbon fibre is now increasingly used in a variety of sectors, from

elegance. The coating process should begin with a thorough surface

automotive and aeronautics to design and high-end consumer

preparation phase by sanding the resin matrix in which the carbon fibre is impregnated. Indeed, one of the main challenges in processing

enhance its aesthetics, particularly its distinctive texture, it is crucial to

carbon fibre is the presence of pores and defects that can compromise

adopt a suitable coating cycle.

the structural integrity and visual appearance of finished parts.

Therefore, choosing the right coating products and techniques is key

After sanding and degreasing the surface, the application cycle

not only to preserving its mechanical and structural properties but

continues with the application of a high-fill primer, the 30100 CARBON

also to enhancing the aesthetic appearance of this innovative material,

PRIMER TRX FILLER product. Using this high-thickness primer helps

© Lechler

goods production. However, to maintain its characteristics over time and

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N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

ADVANCEMENTS

fill such imperfections, creating a smooth and even

surface hardness makes it resistant to abrasion,

surface for improved paint adhesion. In addition, its

scratches, and wear, thus guaranteeing a long service

high transparency ensures that the carbon fibre’s

life and maintaining the beauty of the coated parts

characteristic woven texture remains visible, thus

over time.

maintaining the desired aesthetics. This product is

Two pre-pigmented primers developed specifically

designed to improve the performance and aesthetics

for application on carbon fibre complete the offer:

of carbon fibre components, offering significant

30101 Carbon Grey Filler and 30103 Carbon Black

advantages in terms of surface finish and durability of

Filler. These can be easily over-coated with top coats

end products. Thanks to its high fill and transparency

and matte base coats from the Lechsys and Lechsys

properties, it is an effective solution for optimising

Effect systems. Such compatibility enables end users

production and ensuring high-quality results even in

to experiment with a wide range of finishes, from the

the most demanding sectors, such as automotive and

simplest pastel colours to the most sophisticated

product design.

effects, always guaranteeing cycles of the highest

After carefully sanding and degreasing the primer

quality. In fact, Lechler’s objective is to offer solutions

layer, the subsequent step is the application of the

that not only protect and improve the mechanical

clear coat, the 30102 CARBON LOOK FINISH product.

and aesthetic characteristics of carbon fibre but also

This step in the process is crucial to achieving

enable to customise the aesthetics of components,

high-quality results. The 30102 finish is specially

thus meeting the most diverse creative and design

formulated to offer an exceptional gloss degree that

requirements.

enhances the beauty and complexity of the carbon fibre weave. It is characterised by high weathering resistance, which means end components can maintain their integrity and aesthetics without any degradation due to exposure to natural agents, humidity, temperature variations, and other environmental factors. In addition, its excellent

Lechler has launched a series of high-quality products to offer solutions that not only protect and improve the mechanical and aesthetic characteristics of carbon fibre but also enable to customise the aesthetics of components.

© Lechler

via Bassa Prima, 219 S. Andrea di Campodarsego (PD) T +39 049.5564837 info@feltanireti.it www.feltanireti.it WHAREHOUSE READY FOR DELIVERY

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

An Industry at the Service of Design: Trends and Inspirations from Milan Design Week 2024 Ilaria Paolomelo and Giulia Gentile, ipcm®

The world of design could be seen as a giant planet orbited by all the industrial sectors that adapt to its needs, follow its trends, and draw inspiration from them. That is because it is characterised by a strong ability to establish and emphasise trends that then gradually touch many branches of the economy, as in a chain reaction. And since every planet needs its own universe, the ipcm® team set out to explore it. The Salone Internazionale del Mobile trade fair fascinated us and made us deeply aware of the leading role that design plays in driving the aesthetic trends of entire sections of the market.

E

very year, Milan Design Week attracts numerous visitors eager to discover the latest trends in the world of design and furniture. Aware of the importance of this event, the ipcm®_International Paint&Coating

Magazine team immersed themselves in the hectic atmosphere of Salone Internazionale del Mobile and explored the installations and exhibitions of Fuorisalone, aiming to identify the most relevant and interesting trends.

Through meetings with designers, companies, and experts, we outlined an overview of the direction contemporary design is taking. In this article, we will summarise the key trends that are inevitably going to affect companies along the entire production chain, from raw materials to manufacturing, up to our

© Saverio Lombardi Vallauri / Salone del Mobile.Milano

sector of interest, that of finishing.

Interior design and construction: sustainability as a common thread Interest in sustainable materials and processes is growing steadily, both for interiors and for buildings and large architectural projects. Designers and architects are increasingly incorporating recycled, biodegradable, and

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

environmentally friendly materials into their projects. Green building,

Electronic devices and home automation solutions are no longer

the branch of architecture that deals with designing and constructing

isolated objects but smoothly integrated into the design of homes,

structures limiting environmental damage, mainly uses natural materials

preserving the elegance and harmony of spaces. This approach reflects

such as wood, stone, and clay. These projects promote energy efficiency

the growing interest towards timeless aesthetics, where technology is at

and human well-being through effective thermal insulation, optimised

the service of comfort and functionality.

building orientation to make the most of passive solar energy, and renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and rainwater

Rediscovering nature

harvesting systems. A key aspect of this is biodesign, which integrates

This trend is a tangible response to the growing desire to reconnect

natural elements into buildings to improve sustainability and indoor

with nature, even within domestic spaces. Organic shapes and materials

air quality, promoting the health and well-being of people. Projects

evoking natural elements have taken centre stage in the design scene,

designed with this in mind include vertical gardens, green roofs, phyto-

focusing on the harmonious fusion of built and natural environments.

purification devices for waste water, and natural ventilation systems.

Materials such as wood, stone, terrazzo, and rattan featured

Discreetly integrated technology

prominently in the displayed creations, conveying a feeling of calm and authenticity. The choice of natural materials went hand in hand with the

At Salone Internazionale del Mobile 2024, a dominant trend that

integration of tactile textures, which not only add comfort to the spaces

caught visitors’ attention was the increasingly sophisticated integration

but also help stimulate the senses and enrich the overall aesthetic

of technology into interior design. Innovation embraces practicality

experience. At the same time, the dominant colour palette included

and aesthetics through home automation, augmented reality, and 3D

earthy and natural tones, with variations of green, terracotta, and ochre

printing coming together to create cutting-edge living experiences.

pervading the exhibition spaces and reflecting the human desire to

Technology is no longer just an additional feature but an integral part

reconnect with nature and create cosy and reassuring atmospheres,

of the living experience, making homes smarter and more functional.

thus promoting relaxation and contemplation. Indeed, nature-inspired

At the same time, a subtle revolution is taking place: technology is

design represents a major evolution in furniture and architecture,

incorporated more discreetly, gently blending in with its surroundings.

providing reflective spaces where individuals can escape from the hustle

© AdobeStock

Vertical gardens are increasingly in demand in the context of biodesign, which integrates natural elements into buildings to improve sustainability and indoor air quality, promoting the health and well-being of people.

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and bustle of modern life and find balance and well-being.

As evidence of this trend, most of the Salone Internazionale del Mobile stands paid homage to nature by including walls characterised by vertical greenery, impressive plants, and natural stone.

Dynamic design: versatility and adaptability for an evolving world This edition of Salone Internazionale del Mobile saw the emergence of multi-functional design for both living spaces and objects. This trend reflects the growing awareness of the world’s rapidly evolving needs. Home environments and furniture are no longer conceived as static but rather dynamic and flexible, to adapt to everyday life’s different activities and situations. Multi-functional design solutions ensure versatility and practicality because they maximise the available spaces and meet a broader range of needs without compromising on style or aesthetics. This philosophy is reflected in furniture that can be transformed to perform different functions, such as sofa beds or extendable tables, and in living spaces that can be reorganised to serve various purposes, such as turning a living room into a meeting room or a remote workspace. As well as optimising the use of space, multi-functionality promotes a more sustainable lifestyle by reducing the need to own a wide range of objects and facilitating the transition to a more minimalist and conscious lifestyle. It ultimately entails an important evolution in interior design, which responds to the changing needs and challenges of modern life with creative solutions.

Bold colour accents: the triumph of coral orange and burgundy Despite neutral colours being widespread on walls and the main furniture elements, another key trend emerged during Milan Design Week 2024: the use of bold and vibrant hues to

©Paolo Riolzi / Salone del Mobile.Milano

infuse interiors with liveliness and personality. Coral orange

At the Salone del Mobile, Smeg wanted, through its stand, to pay homage to nature by including vertical green walls and plants.

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and burgundy especially stood out as the event’s big stars.

Coral orange, a colour often considered difficult to match with others, has been enthusiastically embraced by major Italian brands such as Zanotta, Cassina, Poltrona Frau, and Magis. Sunny and cheerful, it warmed the mood and added a touch of freshness to the exhibition spaces. Two glaring examples of this were the Z24 727 storage unit designed by Muller van Severen for Zanotta and the re-editions in a coral version of Magis’ Puppy chair and Bombo stool by Cini Boeri,

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

a tribute conceived by Loro Piana in the company’s showroom. The presence of coral orange suggests that this colour may soon find its way into our homes, bringing a sense of warmth and joy capable of transforming the surrounding atmosphere.

Burgundy, on the other hand, was used in curtain fabrics and on painted walls, creating enveloping environments full of personality.

With its timeless elegance, this deep and refined colour was chosen by several leading brands to lend a sense of welcome and

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sophistication to spaces. Perfect for those longing for luxurious atmospheres, burgundy manages to combine modernity and tradition. Brands such as Minotti, Gallotti&Radice, LAGO, and Baxter have embraced this shade for their 2024 collections. And, whereas at the trade fair it was mixed with other colours such as orange and green, it was virtually unrivalled at Fuorisalone. Sabato De Sarno, Gucci’s creative director, celebrated the darkest red by calling his selection Rosso Ancora (literally, “red again”) and relaunching five Italian design icons in their burgundy versions, confirming it as the label’s new signature colour.

Design for human well-being At Salone Internazionale del Mobile 2024, practical well-being took centre stage in living spaces, reflecting the growing interest in creating environments that promote physical and mental health.

This trend translates into carefully conceived design to promote well-being with a focus on natural light, ventilation, and the creation

Washing tunnels

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Shot blasting booths

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Customers who turn to Eurotherm are customers who, despite knowing the “painting process”, want to improve production by adopting highly customized technical solutions.

Based in Turin (IT)

95

205

Headquarter

Employees

Plants realized in 2023

Verona (IT) Lyon (FR) Sigmaringen (DE) Brussels (BE) Other locations

PLANT 1: 4.700 m² of offices, metal work production and painting.

PLANT 2: 5.300 m² for production, preassembling, warehouse and logistics.

© Zanotta

Eurotherm S.p.A. T +39 011 98 23 500 | M info@eurotherm.eu Eurotherm France S.A.S. T +33 6 76 72 48 65 | M france@eurotherm.eu Eurotherm Oberflächentechnik GmbH T +49 7571 92795 10 | M germany@eurotherm.eu

The Z24 727 storage unit designed by Muller van Severen for Zanotta stands out with its vibrant hue and bold design.

Eurotherm Benelux Srl T +33 6 47 44 96 27 | M dekergorlay@eurotherm.eu

www.eurotherm.eu

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

of environments that induce calm and concentration. The rooms are

quality, functionality, and aesthetic standards in finished products. The

devised to maximise natural light, using large windows and lighting

awareness that the beauty and functionality of objects depend directly

systems that replicate sunlight to enhance the mood and boost energy

on the quality of the raw materials used and the processing methods

levels. Air quality is optimised through advanced filtration systems

employed is increasingly widespread. That translates into an increased

and eco-friendly materials that ensure a healthy, pollutant-free indoor

focus on research, the selection of the best raw materials available

environment.

on the market, and the implementation of advanced and sustainable

The production process revolution: the importance of quality, from raw materials to end products Another significant trend concerns the increasing importance placed on the production process from start to finish, with a focus on the quality of

manufacturing processes – in other words, a commitment to creating high-quality products that not only meet the users’ aesthetic and functional needs but also promote sustainability and the well-being of the environment and people.

raw materials and processing phases. This approach calls for developing

How is the finishing sector responding?

optimised and controlled manufacturing processes that meet high

As mentioned in the introduction to this article, the design world sets trends and influences many other branches of the economy and © LAGO

industry in a chain reaction. The finishing sector is affected by these trends, too. Sustainability, the focus of this year’s Milan Design Week, is certainly not a new theme for the finishing industry. However, with its emphasis on the environment, this event seems to have been a further push towards responsible practices.

In recent years, ipcm® has presented several articles in its magazines on the development of more sustainable paint products, such as waterbased coatings, which are becoming increasingly popular as they emit less VOCs thus reducing their impact. In addition, companies in the sector are working to minimise waste and paint consumption during the finishing phases by optimising production processes and adopting more sustainable packaging solutions. Technologies that reduce energy consumption in paint production are becoming increasingly popular, using more efficient equipment and energy management practices.

Finally, companies are developing solutions for recycling used paint and improving disposal practices. Certifications and regulations such as REACH set standards for the safety of chemicals and promote the responsible use of chemicals. In other words, sustainability in the coating industry requires a holistic approach to the entire life cycle of products, aiming to reduce environmental impact and promote greater social responsibility. At the same time, as mentioned, the trends identified at Salone Internazionale del Mobile 2024 strongly influence this sector, driving its colour and finish choices. Vibrant hues such as coral orange, which dominated the show, and tints that evoke a greater connection with nature, in particular, are inspiring the selection of bolder colours for both indoor and outdoor use.

The Altana armchair designed by LAGO in collaboration with the designer Monica Armani presented at the Salone del Mobile 2024.

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TIGER Trend Colors 2024

SOFT PEACH

SOFT PEACH perfectly combines function and aesthetics and creates masterpieces in furniture and industrial design. See how this color gives your product timeless elegance that transcends fleeting trends.

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The soft pastel shade draws inspiration from the natural beauty of peaches and apricots and proves to be a color of hope, calm and serenity.

HOW IT’S COATED

© AkzoNobel

?

AkzoNobel Painting a More Secure Future for Historic Dutch Windmills The partnership with the Kinderdijk World Heritage Foundation involves the use of AkzoNobel’s innovative coatings to preserve the windmills and restore them to their original colours.

T

he iconic 18th century windmills at Kinderdijk in the Netherlands

“Our UNESCO site sets an example to the world and only the best

are being preserved with help from AkzoNobel’s Sikkens brand.

maintenance plans and products are good enough. We’re therefore

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the company

extremely pleased to have agreed this partnership with AkzoNobel.”

has signed a six-year agreement to protect the 19 windmills, which were

Regarded by many as a national treasure, the Kinderdijk windmills have

built around 1740. The partnership – with the Kinderdijk World Heritage

come to symbolize how the Dutch have mastered the art of smart

Foundation – will involve using AkzoNobel’s technical expertise and

and sustainable water management over hundreds of years. It’s also

innovative coatings to preserve the windmills and restore them to their

a long-established tourist attraction, with more than 350,000 people

original colours.

visiting every year. Located around 15 kilometres east of Rotterdam,

“Kinderdijk is unique and irreplaceable,” explains Peter-Jan van

most of the 19 windmills are still inhabited, with one family having been

Steenbergen, Director of the Kinderdijk World Heritage Foundation.

resident for ten generations. In many ways, they embody the country’s

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SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

centuries-old struggle with water and how the Netherlands has managed to survive below sea level for so long. “We believe our paint expertise and focus on sustainability can make a genuine difference at Kinderdijk,” adds Kees-Jan Starrenburg, Country Director for

EnvironmEnt SuStainablE GrEEn

AkzoNobel Netherlands. “I’m proud to see our products being used at this beautiful UNESCO site, which highlights the importance we attach to safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.”

The six-year agreement builds on a relationship which AkzoNobel first established with the Kinderdijk World Heritage Foundation in 2016. Kinderdijk is also one of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that feature the company’s coatings. They include La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain; Westminster Abbey in London, UK; Göbekli Tepe in Türkiye; Malacca in Malaysia; and Ouro Preto in Brazil.

Scan the QR Code to learn more about the restoration of the iconic windmills

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© ipcm / generated with AI

SCIENCE OUTLOOK

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

A FEM Approach to Explore the Thermal Dynamics of Steel Parts During Powder Coating Process S. Lanthaler and Z. Mir Forster Profilsysteme AG – Romanshorn, Switzerland

sonja.lanthaler@forstersystems.com - zahid.mir@forstersystems.com

Michael Schreiner RhySearch Das Forschungs- und Innovationszentrum Rheintal – Buchs, Switzerland

michael.schreiner@rhysearch.ch

Powder coating fundamentally depends on the precise polymerisation temperature; therefore, the quality of the coating is primarily dependent on the temperature of the component’s surface on which it is applied. In a study at the Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST), the temperature of the coating process was studied for various geometries. A summary of the investigation is presented in this article.

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RESEARCH BREAKTHROUGH

D

uring the powder coating process, a layer of a desired powder

type. However, implementing this strategy is a challenging task. To

is applied to the metallic part. The metal part is then placed in a

evaluate if this concept would work or not, a numerical strategy based

preheated oven for a certain period of time to allow the powder

on Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis was employed to study the

to cross-link, which leads to the formation of the desired coating.

heating behaviour of the reference body and aim to correlate the

The degree of cross-linking is decisive for the quality of the coating.

results with various steel components that could be coated under

The desired degree of cross-linking is achieved when the powder

identical conditions as the reference body. This article thus presents

has been exposed to a temperature precisely defined by the powder

the summary of a recently conducted bachelor thesis focusing on this

manufacturer for a certain duration. The target surface temperature in

concept [1]. Although a parity between reference body and an actual

turn is mostly dependent on thickness of the substrate as well as other

component of a certain thickness is achieved for simple geometries, it is

contributing factors such as its geometry etc. In cases where the desired

however not so straightforward for complex geometries.

substrate temperature of the metal part is not achieved, an adequate cross-linking of the powder will not take place. This will create flaws in

The reference body

the coating and degrade the production quality. On the other hand,

As depicted in Figure 1 the reference body is designed is such a way

estimating the degree of cross-linking of the powder on a surface is

so that several thin metal plates (layers) can be conveniently joined

not an easy process and it is usually determined by various destructive

together with the help of four screws.

testing methods.

A mounted magnetic attachment which is fixed on one of the external

To enhance the quality control process and avoid redundant testing

plates is intended to hold a small thin plate having a certain coating

trials on actual parts, a reference body was defined whose thickness

powder (not shown in Figure 1). This design stipulates that layers could

can be varied by screwing together a desired number of steel plates

be quickly added or removed according to the thickness of the steel part

(Fig. 1). As such, this specimen’s thermal inertia can be easily adjusted

being imitated.

to match that of the metal part in focus, allowing its thickness to be

As the plates come in contact, a minor thermal resistance layer is

adjusted accordingly. By conducting the powder coating tests on this

formed between the plates due to the inherent slight imperfections and

reference body instead of the actual part, it not only protects the part

roughness features on the surface of the plates (Fig. 2). This resistance

from potential incorrect coatings but also guides the oven baking

is further amplified because the plates are not perfectly flat, and their

process specific to the metal part and a specific coating powder.

surfaces exhibit roughness peaks and oxides due to atmospheric

Consequently, the coating quality on the reference body should

corrosion. As such, these asperities come in contact with each other

mirror that of the actual part, facilitating targeted testing and adjusting

arising from opposing surfaces but also creating minuscule air gaps as

oven exposure time for efficient cross-linking of a particular powder

shown in Figure 2.

Figure 1 - The reference body consists of ten steel plates which are held together by four screws at the corners. A magnetic attachment at the top is also shown.

Each plate is 200 mm x 100 mm x 4 mm in dimensions.

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Therefore, the resulting heat transfer through the reference body occurs both via direct contact between the connecting surfaces (blue arrow) and through these air-filled gaps (red arrow), with the latter offering lower thermal conductivity compared to steel.

The heat transfer coefficient A conventional powder coating oven is heated with hot air. Hot air is blown into the oven via vents, creating Figure 2 - Thermal contact characteristics of two surfaces.

Blue arrow depicts heat path via metal-metal contact and red arrow shows heat flow via entrapped fluid (air) [2].

an air flow whose speed can vary depending on the position of air inlet, dimension of the oven and placement of parts in the oven.

This moving air will then heat the components, but the rate at which the components are heated, depends on the heat transfer coefficient. It indicates how much energy is transferred during the heat exchange between the warm air and the surface of the colder components. On the one hand, this heat transfer coefficient depends on the flow velocity and the direction of flow and on the other hand on the dimensions and shape of the component.

Thermal measurements and simulation model In order to study the thermal dynamics of the reference body, a Finite Element Method (FEM) [3] based simulation model using COMSOL [4] was generated (Fig. 3). Temperature dependent material properties (heat conductivity, specific heat capacity and density) of steel were taken from Eurocode [5].

Figure 3 - A simplified 1D model of the reference body (with two plates in this case).

The reference body is embedded in an insulating material in order to have a uni-directional flow of heat. The heat transfer coefficient is shown by "h" and the thermal resistance between plates is shown by "R".

To be able to model the heat flow from the external environment to the reference body, it is important to know the heat transfer coefficient “h” also known as the film coefficient, which governs the transfer of heat from the warm air to the colder component (reference body in this case).

Additionally, in order to accurately capture the flow of heat between the plates i.e., via metal asperities and discontinuities, it is important to know the effective thermal resistance “R” between the plates. Both these parameters are visualised in Figure 3. As both “h” and “R” were unknown for the test specimen, measurement was carried out in a lab oven (ThermoTEC Weilburg, Germany) at OST to find these parameters and calibrate the model for the reference body.

Figure 4 - A sketch depicting location of thermal sensors on the reference body.

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SCIENCE OUTLOOK

Efficient and reliable

During the initial tests it was ascertained that it is difficult to find values for “h” and “R” if the specimen is exposed to hot air on all sides.

To reduce the complexity of the problem, the reference body was embedded in an insulation mould made of Purenit [6] leaving only one surface exposed to air. As such, the problem was reduced from a 3D to a 1D case (Fig. 3). Thermal sensors Type K were attached to the front (exposed face) and the backside (embedded side) surface

solutions for surface coating since 1988.

(Fig. 4). The reference body was thus placed in an oven in various configurations i.e., with various number of plates at a time and also measured against a solid body (as a reference) with similar thickness to study the effect of contact i.e., thermal resistance “R”. For some measurements, a graphite based high conductivity heat pad (0.2 mm thick) was used between the plates to overcome the effect of any air slits between the plates in case if the plates were not perfectly flat or rather slightly curved. Measurements were conducted for 2, 3 and 5 plates, without heat pads (Fig. 5, left), with heat pads (centre) and solid block in the same thickness (right).

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Figure 5 - Arrangement of reference body with (left) and without heat pads (centre) and solid body with same thickness (right) in the lab oven at OST.

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Additionally, Figure 5 shows the configuration in which the samples were embedded in the Purenit [6] insulation and positioned in the lab oven establishing a 1D heat transmission. The measurements were started at 20 °C and the lab oven was heated until all surface sensors (shown in the Figure 5) reached 120 °C. Additionally air temperature in the oven was measured with two additional sensors on the left and right side of the specimen (not visible in Figure 5).

Using FEM and Nusselt’s theory, the thermal resistance and heat transfer coefficient parameters were calibrated. This made it possible to calculate the thermal behaviour of the test specimen for the different numbers of plates. Here too, the insulation was used for the calculations, which is why a 1D model was used for the simulation (Fig. 3). A comparison of an experiment done with three plates with a numerical model also containing three plates is shown in Figure 6. A similar agreement was obtained for other thickness configurations of the reference body. Hence, a well calibrated model was established for the reference body which includes appropriate values of “h” and “R” [1].

Figure 6 (above) Comparison of an experiment with 3 plates with numerical model with 3 plates.

Numerical comparison of various steel components with the reference body To effectively compare actual steel components with the reference body, it is necessary to understand the distribution and transport of heat within the steel components when exposed to oven conditions. For this purpose, the heat transfer coefficients for simple geometries such as a flat plate, a round bar and an I-section were determined using Nusselt’s theory. The flow was assumed to be along the length of the steel part (Fig. 7). These values were used to calculate the heat distribution in the steel components with the same boundary conditions as the reference body.

Flowing air with a temperature of 200 °C was set as the boundary conditions [1].

As shown in Figure 8, the time taken to reach 180 °C for a steel plate with 8 mm thickness and a reference

Figure 7 - A result from a simulation of a steel plate with different thicknesses.

The heat transfer coefficient for the plate was calculated as 10.39 W/m2K.

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body with 2 plates (effective thickness 8 mm) is comparable. Similar observation is observed when a 12 mm steel plate is compared with a reference body with 3 plates (effective thickness 12 mm) as well as for a 16 mm steel plate with reference body with 4 plates.

SCIENCE OUTLOOK

As the thickness of the part increases from 8 mm to 16 mm, the time

with various thickness were also carried out in this study and these

needed in the oven to reach 180 °C also increases, showing a roughly

calculations can be found in detail in the thesis [1].

linear trend. As such a correlation could be established which relates the thickness of the steel plate with the reference body. This result

Conclusion

can thus be used in deciding the oven time required for a particular

In this study, it was intended to design a reference body which could

coating with the help of this reference body and would in turn correlate

be used for non-destructive quality testing of powder coating process

with the thickness of the plate under consideration. The temperature

at an industrial scale. The underlying concept aims at establishing a

comparison was conducted at the least heated point on the plate which

correlation between the wall thickness of various steel components with

is the centre point (marked with red cross in Figure 7) of the plate’s

the reference body upon exposure to hot air in powder coating ovens.

surface with the surface temperature of the reference body. Such a

As a starting step, multiple measurements were conducted in a lab

comparison makes sure that all material points on the steel plate reach

oven, and the surface temperature of the reference body was recorded

at least 180 °C.

in different configurations with respect to its thickness. Based on these

In contrast, it was difficult to establish a correlation when curved

results, a 1D FEM model was set up and calibrated for heat transfer

geometries such as a round bar were compared with the reference

coefficient and thermal resistance between the plates of the reference

body (Fig. 9). The time required to reach 180°C for round steel bars

body.

with various diameters such as 150 mm, 200 mm and 250 mm could

To evaluate the concept, the temperature evolution of three steel

not be accurately corelated with the reference body with 2, 4 and 5

components i.e., steel plates of different wall thicknesses, round steel

plates as shown in Figure 9. Other comparison such as with an I-section

bars with various diameters and an I-section with various web and

Figure 8 - Time required to reach 180 °C for the steel plate in various thicknesses and the corresponding reference body.

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Figure 9 - Time required to reach 180 °C for the steel round bar in various diameters and the corresponding reference body.

flange thicknesses upon exposure to powder coating oven conditions

Acknowledgements

were compared with suitable configurations of the reference body. For

The authors express their gratitude to the Eastern Switzerland

simpler geometries which are flat and without any curved surfaces,

University of Applied Sciences for granting them access to their lab

a correlation with the reference body could be established. This can

facilities for their testing and research. The authors also thank GSB

directly facilitate the non-destructive quality control in powder coating

International e.V. for their support, providing the reference body and

plants. However, for curved geometries, it was difficult to establish a

the temperature measuring device. A special thanks goes to Mr. Daniel

correlation and additional work is recommended to understand this

Scheffler from ENVIRAL Oberflächenveredelung GmbH for his help with

correlation. Further continuation of this work is recommended wherein

the preliminary testing. The authors declare no conflict of interest.

a comparison with other geometries especially with those containing hollow cavities should be studied. Furthermore, correlations of the reference body with components made of other materials such as aluminium or stainless steel should be investigated.

References [1] S. Lanthaler, Numerische und experimentelle Untersuchung und Analyse des Wärmetransportes beim Pulverbeschichten, Bachelor Thesis, Ostschweizer Fachhochschule, Buchs, 2023.

[2] A. Bejan, A.D. Kraus, Heat transfer handbook, John Wiley & Sons, 2003.

[3] J. Fish, T. Belytschko, A first course in finite elements, Wiley New York, 2007.

[4] Comsol, Multiphysics®, version 6.0, Heat Transfer Module User’s Guide, COMSOL, 2022 [5] European Committee for Standardisation, Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures-part 1-2: General rules-structural fire design, April 2005.

[6] Puren, Downloads - Technische Datenblätter. [Online]. Available: https://www.puren.com/fileadmin/user_upload/2_loesungen/2_6_purenit/03_td_purenit_c_2208_eu-de.pdf (URL)

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SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Towards Excellence: Pleion Revolutionises the Coating of its Thermal Collectors with a New Plant Ilaria Paolomelo, ipcm®

Pleion, an Italian company specialising in the design, production, and marketing of solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic systems, has been establishing a close partnership with Linea Eco Air that has promoted a continuous exchange of technical and technological expertise, culminating in the supply of a liquid coating plant for the external surfaces of the pipes installed within the company’s collectors.

T

he thermal collector market is a constantly evolving sector,

significantly affect their performance and longevity. That is why taking

fuelled by growing environmental awareness and the search for

effective measures to protect them against corrosion and any issues

sustainable energy supply solutions. Indeed, thermal collectors

caused by water pressure is essential. In this context, coating their

play a crucial role in the field of renewable energy, transforming solar

surfaces emerges as a key element not only to ensure their protection

energy into heat that can be used for domestic heating and hot water

against corrosive agents but also to optimise their energy efficiency.

production. These devices’ technological core consists of steel pipes

“Particularly relevant is the use of black top coats that, thanks to their

through which mains water flows. However, the aggressive nature

high capacity to absorb sunlight, allow collector pipes to maximise the

of water, which varies depending on the types of water systems, can

captured energy and convert it into heat more efficiently.

Pleion is an Italian company specialising in the design, production, and marketing of solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic systems. © Pleion

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

© ipcm

© ipcm

The sheets – made of special steel for naval use – undergo a series of machining operations to obtain the required tubular shape.

On the right, the loading and unloading area of the coating system supplied by Linea Eco Air.

This is crucial in improving the performance of thermal systems and

offered products to significantly improve and our company to grow,”

optimising their overall efficiency,” says engineer Filippo Gangi, the

says Pleion’s president, Adalberto Scarrone.

technical office manager of Pleion, an Italian company specialising in

In addition to producing and selling solar thermal collectors, which

the design, construction, and installation of solar thermal collectors

is its core business, Pleion has also been established for years in

and photovoltaic systems. In 2019, it turned to Linea Eco Air (Sona,

the photovoltaic panel sector. It offers complete, turnkey installation

Verona, Italy) to install a liquid coating system for treating the external

services for a wide range of sectors, including hotels, hospitals, and

surfaces of the pipes lying at the heart of its solar thermal collectors.

other large architectural projects. “Despite being a leader in the

This investment was a significant step in its growth path, enabling it

solar thermal sector, we are also capable of adapting to new market

to consolidate its market leadership position and demonstrating its

trends. Such offer diversification has enabled us to meet the needs

commitment to providing innovative and reliable solutions.

of an increasingly diverse customer base looking for sustainable and

Growth and innovation in the solar energy sector: Pleion’s story

innovative energy solutions, as well as to successfully overcome many challenges due to market changes,” adds Scarrone.

Pleion has maintained steady growth in recent years, even during the

Founded in 2009 in Cerea (Verona), Pleion aims to revolutionise the

COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to its resilience, it has been maintaining

solar energy sector in Italy. Initially, its core business was the marketing

high production levels serving both the domestic and European markets

of high-end solar thermal collectors imported from Switzerland and

and recorded a significant increase in turnover in 2021 and 2022. “With

distributed domestically. However, a sudden, significant change in the

its dedicated research and development team, Pleion continuously

exchange rate between the Euro and the Swiss Franc prompted Pleion

invests in innovative solutions in the field of solar energy, aiming to

to reconsider its business strategy. “This unforeseen event called for a

further expand into international markets, including France, Portugal,

decisive breakthrough: starting an in-house production of solar thermal

Spain, and the Near East by offering competitive, state-of-the-art

collectors. Although motivated by a circumstance beyond our control,

products,” states the company’s president.

this move turned out to be extremely positive, leading the quality of our

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

99

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

How is a solar thermal collector produced?

bend them into a tubular shape. Once the

In addition, our solar thermal collectors are

required shape has been obtained, the pipes

designed with an easily removable frame and

Solar thermal systems operate by heating a

are welded lengthwise to ensure that the

versatile design in various colours, such as

liquid, either directly domestic water or a “heat

structure is tight and solid. Finally, the pipes

tile red, moon white, and aluminium, ensuring

transfer” fluid, which gives up its heat through

are closed with special caps patented by

a harmonious aesthetic integration into any

an “exchanger”; this allows heating the water

Pleion,” explains Gangi.

architectural context.”

in a house or swimming pool and provides

Each collector consists of 3 to 7 pipes with a

additional heat in the heating circuit.

length of about 2 metres and a diameter of

The production cycle of Pleion’s solar thermal

150 mm, which are connected and subjected

The liquid coating plant treating the external surfaces of pipes

collectors is a complete and meticulous

to strict quality controls. After testing, they are

In 2019, Pleion made an ambitious decision:

process designed to ensure optimal

enclosed within PVC plastic shells available in

to raise the level of its production flow by

performance and harmonious aesthetics.

different colours, allowing them to be perfectly

installing a new finishing plant. Previously, it

It is carried out entirely in-house at one of

integrated into the surrounding environment

only had a few stand-alone booths, which,

Pleion’s four factories to ensure high quality.

and compliant with any municipal landscape

although guaranteeing proper coating, were

“We subject sheets made of special steel for

restrictions. “Using a higher number of smaller

unsuitable to achieve higher quality standards.

naval use to a series of machining operations.

tubes compared with market standards

“After a careful market analysis, we chose to

They are cut lengthwise and subjected to

reduces the height of the collectors and thus

rely on the know-how of Linea Eco Air. We

calendering, a process that uses rollers to

their aesthetic impact on the environment.

needed an expert in the coating field, and Linea Eco Air guided us towards the ideal

© ipcm

© ipcm

plant solution for our needs.” Pleion thus installed a complete line for liquid coating the external surfaces of the pipes that make up its thermal collectors. “The special naval steel we use in our production has excellent corrosion resistance: coating it optimises our collector pipes’ heat absorption capacity. That is why we chose to coat our components with a thermosetting top coat pigmented in black, a colour known for its ability to absorb light and solar heat,” notes Gangi.

“After manual loading, the coating process begins inside the approximately 10-metrelong cleaning tunnel equipped with three tanks performing phosphodegreasing and two rinses at room temperature, respectively.”

Subsequently, the components pass through a drying oven at 130 °C and then reach the coating booth, equipped with a reciprocator and two guns supplied by Tecnocoating (Vigarano Mainarda, Ferrara, Italy). The booth features sensors to adjust the chain’s position and the guns’ height along the axis and make the application phase as precise as possible.

Once the coating has been applied to the first pipe section, a device inside the booth moves

Components entering the coating booth and the application phase of the paint product.

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the pipe in about 60 seconds to allow the

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

remaining section to be treated,” explains Gianfranco Soliani, the owner of Linea Eco Air. At the end of the application phase, the parts are first taken to the baking oven at 130 °C, where they dwell for about 25 minutes, and then to a storage buffer at room temperature for about 10 minutes before being unloaded by an operator,” illustrates Gangi. Designed in line with the Industry 4.0 principles, this plant ensures precise control of operating parameters and an overview of the process’ status.

A plant engineering company ready to meet all production needs The coating system supplied by Linea Eco Air was custom-designed to meet all of Pleion’s requirements, with the necessary flexibility to adapt to any production developments. “ © Linea Eco Air

By working closely with Linea Eco Air, we were also able to make some changes after the plant’s start-up,

Overview of the coating booth.

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Visita il nostro sito www.hangon.it SCANSIONA QUI

+39 0545 994589 info@tecnosupply.com

SPECIAL ISSUE ON ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

© ipcm

© ipcm

The plant’s PLC.

The parts are assembled after coating.

optimising efficiency and reducing waste. Our innovative sectional pipe

to use, thanks to its reliability and low maintenance requirements. Any

coating system is a tangible example of this collaboration,” says Gangi.

maintenance work is handled quickly and efficiently, ensuring optimal

“Originally, each pipe was coated as it rotated and moved, but we

plant operation.

quickly noticed that an excessive amount of paint and filters was

“Linea Eco Air has proved to be a key partner for the growth of our

wasted. Therefore, we developed a solution that allows coating one

company: in 2019, it introduced us to the world of industrial coating,

section of a pipe, move it in about 60 seconds, and then proceed with

enabling us to make a quantum leap from stand-alone static booths

coating the next section, thus drastically reducing paint consumption”

to a complete, automated system. In the near future, it will continue

explains Soliani. “In addition, to optimise energy efficiency and

to support us in realising a unique coating plant. We are extremely

minimise heat loss, we installed insulation panels with rubber fans

satisfied with this collaboration and the expertise of Linea Eco Air’s team

that reduce the natural circulation of air among the different zones

members. They respond promptly, and they are flexible and always

of the plant.” Linea Eco Air’s coating system is user-friendly and easy

ready to help,” concludes Pleion president Scarrone.

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INFRARED THERMAL SOLUTIONS

www.infragas.com

© ipcm

Painting Srl (Ariccia, Roma, Italy) is a coating contractor specialising in the finishing of metal building and architecture components.

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

Painting Srl Increased the Quality of its Products by Installing a New Powder Coating Plant and Implementing TORAN 3® Pre-Treatment Technology Federico Melideo, ipcm®

Powder and liquid coating contractor Painting Srl has recently installed a new manual powder coating plant from Eurotherm and implemented Chemtec’s TORAN 3® pre-treatment technology to improve its process sustainability and operational flexibility.

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

© Eurotherm Spa

© Eurotherm Spa

The powder coating plant and the automatic pre-treatment booth (right).

T

echnological innovation determines the production and market

structure for treating components subject to strong international

dynamics of many industries, including the coating one. With the

competition is economically unsustainable. Competition is no longer

introduction of new plants and technologies, many companies

limited to Lazio alone but extends nationally and internationally. Many

are currently redefining their workflows to improve the quality of their

industrial parts are produced and painted in Bulgaria, Poland, Croatia,

products and the sustainability of their processes. That is also the case

Turkey or China.” Painting’s response was to adopt a more targeted

with Painting Srl (Ariccia, Rome, Italy), a benchmark industrial powder

business strategy focused on quality and sustainability, installing a new

and liquid coating contractor in the Lazio region.

powder coating plant and implementing Chemtec’s TORAN 3®

Luca Flore, at the helm of the company, recounts its origins: “Our

pre-treatment technology. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure flexibility,

roots lie in the experience of Trinca Vittorio, a long-standing coating

service customisation, and timely deliveries,” indicates Flore.

contractor since 1952, specialising in powder coating since the 1980s, which distinguished itself as the first company in Lazio and the second in

Technical characteristics of TORAN 3®

Italy to pioneer this field.”

“TORAN 3® is an innovative pre-treatment technology suitable for all

Painting Srl was founded in 2012, and maintained its headquarters in

types of metal, including sandblasted substrates. It is a VOC-free, one-

Frascati (Rome) until 2023, when it moved to Ariccia. “At the same time,

stage, cold technology requiring no water, heating, or rinsing, reusable,

we replaced our old powder coating line with a new, state-of-the-art

and entailing no disposal operation,” explains Carlo Guidetti, the

plant,” adds Flore.

CEO & co-founder of Chemtec Srl. “Adding some fresh product is

Today, Painting’s core businesses are the powder coating of metal and

enough to restore the bath. With the TORAN 3® process, the workpiece

aluminium products intended mainly for the construction industry and

is cleaned for one to three minutes, followed by draining and drying

the liquid coating of components for the medical and military sectors.

in an oven. That forms an organic coating on the treated surface with

“Relocating from Frascati to Ariccia also marked a critical change in our

a thickness of around 300-400 nanometres, which improves paint

target customer base, which now operates above all in the construction

adhesion and provides corrosion resistance. The oils removed from the

industry. This strategic change has led us to specialise in the coating of

part are absorbed by the polymer and become an integral part of the

metal architectural components such as shutters and grilles, although

passivation film, whereas solid impurities are filtered out by a 50-micron

still maintaining a presence in the industrial sector on a smaller scale,”

filter so that the bath never has to be replaced in its entirety.”

says Flore. “I believe that maintaining an all-Italian industrial-oriented

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

105

© ipcm

The benefits of the new pre-treatment process “We opted for implementing the TORAN 3® pre-treatment system because of its sustainability.

It does not generate sludge, thus eliminating waste disposal costs and keeping the tank clean over the years. It requires very little maintenance, also eliminating the need to clean the spray nozzles. With TORAN 3®, in compliance with provincial regulations, there is no need for air emission analyses, as it does not require heating and has no critical emission points. Finally, being based on organic high-boiling fluids, it has a low environmental impact,” notes Flore. “In terms of performance, adopting the TORAN 3® technology has significantly improved the quality of our pretreatment and powder coating phases. Compared with the three-stage phosphodegreasing operation we used to perform, it also provides superior paint adhesion, as evidenced by the salt

The touch-screen 4.0 with a PLC.

spray test results achieved, equal to 1,000 hours.”

“It is important to emphasise that TORAN 3® is © ipcm

a chemical product with a neutral pH value of 7, which makes it suitable for use in galvanised sheet metal plants. This also leads to considerable savings in terms of machine design, as pregalvanised sheet metal can be used instead of stainless steel, thus reducing the investment cost for a pre-treatment tunnel by 50%,” adds Guidetti.

The new manual powder coating plant 4.0 Painting’s new powder coating plant, installed in July 2023 and supplied by Eurotherm (Volpiano, Turin, Italy), consists of as follows:  an automatic Ecojet pre-treatment tunnel using TORAN 3®;  a powder coating booth;  a drying/curing oven with an air steam burner;  a central overhead conveyor with a manual transfer unit with a capacity of 1500 kg, featuring load bars with a maximum capacity of 1000 kg and 6 metres in length;  a lift station for loading and unloading the workpieces hung onto the load bars; The powder application booth.

a storage buffer;  Industry 4.0-oriented connection solutions with a

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

touch-screen PLC, allowing for remote assistance.

“We installed a flexible structure capable of coating workpieces up to a maximum size of 6 x 3 m and a maximum weight of 1000 kg. The plant covers an area of only 250 m², and is equipped with a central overhead conveyor that moves the parts among the storage buffer, the lift station, the pre-treatment tunnel, the powder coating booth, and the curing oven,” illustrates Flore.

“The storage buffer plays a crucial role in this Cartesiantype system. For example, it allows pre-treated parts to be stored before being coated in the booth, should this be already in use,” notes Davide Quartana, Project Manager at Eurotherm SpA. “The drying/curing oven operates at temperatures between 180 and 200 °C and is located in front of the booth to enable the overhead conveyor to easily move the coated parts from the latter to the former, which performs two functions: drying the TORAN 3® product and curing the powder. Its temperature is adjusted via software based on pre-set automatic parameters. Alternatively, the operator can

© ipcm

The water curtain booth for liquid paint application.

COLOR

PASSION

TECHNOLOGY

LIGHTNESS Lechler is the technical sponsor of Team Polti Kometa and has designed four colors and provided the paint cycle for the carbon frames of the Aurum bicycles racing in the Giro d’Italia 2024.

www.lechler.eu

select the option of drying at 120 °C or curing at 180 °C. In addition, a given temperature can be selected according to customer specifications, also considering the powder product chosen and the thickness of the workpiece.”

“Recipes are created by indicating the required times and temperatures.

The coating manager is responsible for setting the operating parameters, the access to which is restricted. This innovative system thus enables the operators to start the machine and select the right production cycle with the advantage that recipes, temperatures, and operating times are loaded automatically,” adds Gianpaolo Candelero from the technical office of Eurotherm SpA.

Conclusions Installing the new powder coating plant and implementing TORAN 3® © ipcm

pre-treatment technology resulted in a significant step forward in Painting’s journey towards improving the quality of its products. These investments have enabled it to maintain a competitive position in both the national and international markets by offering increasingly customised and high-quality services. Additionally, the new pretreatment technology has not only brought benefits in terms of performance and environmental sustainability but has also optimised the company’s production processes, reducing its operating costs and improving the overall efficiency of its paint shop.

“I must say that we are extremely satisfied with the results obtained.

Despite the small size of this coating plant, we have achieved exceptional levels of productivity, managing to coat up to 56 load bars per day, each with an average coatable area of 12 m², totalling over 600 m2 of coated surface. Moreover, the new oven with an air stream burner has provided us with significant cost savings, reducing LPG consumption by 50%

© ipcm

compared with the previous static oven,” states Painting’s owner Luca Flore.

Chemtec CEO Carlo Guidetti, finally, concludes by pointing out that “this plant’s flexibility is further increased by the fact that TORAN 3® is a ready-to-use product that does not require pre-heating, a feature that has also helped significantly reduce fixed costs.”

The dry booth for liquid paint application.

The drying/curing oven.

© ipcm

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From left to right: Carlo Guidetti from Chemtec, Luca Flore and Massimiliano Trinca from Painting Srl, and Beatrice Turri from Chemtec.

Ravarini Castoldi & C. srl ELETTROSPRAY® via E. De Nicola, 18 - I-20090 Cesano Boscone (MI) Italy - tel.+39 0255210608 www.ravarinicastoldi.it - dive@ravarinicastoldi.it

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

SpeXparts: an Italian Company of Excellence in the Production of High-Quality Hoses for the Industrial Painting Sector From an interview with Gabriella Barone Sales and Marketing Manager at SpeXparts - Trezzano sul Naviglio (Milan), Italy

Focusing on its products’ safety and performance and offering tailor-made solutions for every need has enabled SpeXparts to become a leader in the production of hoses and fittings for various sectors, including industrial painting.

© SpeXparts

© SpeXparts

SpeXparts specialises in the production and marketing of hoses and fittings for a wide range of sectors, including the painting industry.

T

ever-higher standards are fundamental pillars for the success of

SpeXparts: a reliable and flexible partner for the painting industry

any company. SpeXparts stands as an excellent example of this:

SpeXparts was founded in 2018 in Trezzano sul Naviglio (Milan, Italy)

he focus on high product quality and the constant striving for

specialising in manufacturing and marketing hoses and fittings for a

and specialises in producing and marketing metal and textile braided

wide range of sectors, including the painting industry, it faces significant

hoses, high and low-pressure thermoplastic hoses, and fittings for various

challenges on a daily basis to guarantee maximum product performance

industries, from braking systems for cars, bicycles, and scooters to

and safety. In the industrial landscape, the latter is indeed a top priority:

hydraulics, up to the painting sector. Its product range intended for the

SpeXparts fully understands that and is committed to ensuring that its

painting industry includes as follows:

offer always reaches the highest possible level of safety, with a view to

 hoses for painting systems intended for the automotive and motor

safeguarding not only the well-being of operators but also the continuity

vehicle sectors;

of industrial activities. At the same time, in addition to putting safety first,

 hoses for industrial painting plants;

it also constantly invests in modern production technologies and carefully

 hoses for professional diaphragm pumps;

selects raw materials to provide the market with reliable and efficient

 professional high and low-pressure airless hoses for Airmix systems;

products.

 hoses for professional piston pumps.

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HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

“SpeXparts is a unique company in the Italian

through a targeted, high-quality consultancy service,

manufacturing landscape, as it is an all-female

capable of clarifying any doubts and overcoming any

business handling processes commonly associated

technical issues,” emphasises Barone. “For example,

with an all-male world. Over the years, we have

one of our latest projects concerned the production

gained specific expertise in the production of high

of a hose with a special coating, which we made by

and low-pressure hoses, fittings, and flexible hoses

creating a polymer mix that we then tested in-house,

with a particular focus on the industrial painting

thus obtaining an extrusion granule specifically for

sector, which we supply with both standard and

hose coating. It allows the hoses used in painting

special, tailor-made products meeting any need and

robots and systems to slide without creating friction

requirement,” states Gabriella Barone, the company’s

even in the presence of multiple hoses running

owner and sales and marketing manager. “In addition,

parallel to each other and inserted in the chains and,

our R&D activities enable us to consistently improve

therefore, also without causing abrasion and without

the quality of all the services and products we offer,

generating any dust that could be deposited on the

made with the meticulous craftsmanship-oriented

painted parts.”

approach that characterises the Italian industrial tradition.”

Tailor-made solutions to meet the most diverse needs

In-house production to constantly monitor quality Another key to SpeXparts’ success lies in the choice to manufacture its hoses entirely in-house and in

“Relying on a small company like ours means receiving

the special attention paid to raw materials, such

a very adaptable service, as we can quickly meet

as the steel, Kevlar, and polyester yarns used to

individual requirements with customised products,”

make braided hoses; the extruded polymers for

says Barone. SpeXparts’ strengths are precisely its

hose sub-layers or cores, which are generally of

attention to detail and its customised approach.

polyamide; and the polymers used for the hoses’

In addition to producing a wide range of painting

coatings, which are made of abrasion-resistant

hoses, it has a warehouse storing hoses of various

polyurethane and/or innovative polymers produced

diameters ready for delivery to meet standard market

based on special technical specifications. Extruded

demands with 100-m rolls or coils. It also has a facility

materials with special polymers such as PTFE are

where it can connect hoses to customer orders

purchased from certified companies that provide the

and manufacture customised solutions in terms of

relevant declarations of conformity and quality, which

materials, internal and/or external diameter, length,

SpeXparts always requires from its suppliers. That

and operating temperature and pressure according

ensures total and constant control over the quality of

to specific requirements. Finally, SpeXparts can

the materials employed, guaranteeing superior and

personalise its products with its customers’ names,

long-lasting performance.

colours, and lettering (in addition to the texts required

However, SpeXparts’ commitment to quality extends

by law, indicating each hose’s diameter, working

well beyond materials. Each stage of its production

pressure, and burst pressure) to support them in

process is subject to rigorous quality controls,

their branding activities as well by providing clear and

including chemical and physical analyses, laboratory

precise identification.

tests on samples, and mechanical bench tests to

“We analyse the industry’s daily problems to create

check the pressure and bursting performance of the

innovative products designed specifically for each

hoses. In addition, connected hoses are subjected

customer need and offer special, customised

to burst tests at specific pressures to assess their

solutions. Our team, made up of professionals

strength, inspections, leakage tests at working

with specific skills and experience also gained in

pressures, and go/no-go gauge tests to check the

international companies, supports our customers

correct pressing of the fittings and the suitability of

in choosing the most suitable elements to create

flushing and cleaning operations.

painting hoses that fully meet their requirements

“These tests are conducted using sophisticated

PASSION FOR MASKING SOLUTIONS

info@global-mask.com www.global-mask.com

instruments and following strict company procedures, certified according to ISO 9001. The same supervision process is implemented in all our departments, with technicians verifying compliance with each batch’s technical specifications. All of our hoses carry information related to their production batch stamped on their sub-layers and coatings, and those assembled by us also carry information on their batch and production week stamped on their bushings. In the world of industrial painting, the quality of materials and the safety of application equipment components are often underestimated, but they are actually of paramount importance.

SpeXparts has earned an unrivalled reputation precisely because of its attention to detail and commitment to achieving and exceeding extremely high quality standards. The main properties of our hoses for paint application pumps and their coatings are reliability, flexibility, versatility, © SpeXparts

durability, and safety,” indicates Gabriella Barone.

Maximum safety to protect plants and operators As well as careful design aimed at achieving customised, highperformance solutions, industrial painting plants require the use of hoses with specific technical and operational characteristics but also excellent strength, flexibility, and above all safety properties. All products manufactured by SpeXparts are therefore built in compliance with the ISO 8028 standard. “For hoses intended for painting pumps, the required safety factor (operating pressure to burst pressure ratio) is 1:4, especially for equipment working at 300-500BAR operating pressures. Actually, this parameter is not always met, as we often find hoses with a safety factor of 1:2 or 1:3 available on the market, aimed at raising operating pressures, which customers and users are most interested in. Yet, this significantly reduces the safety of the products. That is why SpeXparts’ hoses are © SpeXparts

manufactured with a safety factor of 1:4 (e.g. with an operating pressure of 500BAR, the burst value is 2,000BAR) to protect operators and prevent dangerous accidents. In other words, our hoses are products of the highest quality and reliability, ideal for all companies operating in the industrial painting sector,” concludes Barone.

Connected hoses produced by SpeXparts and installed on painting equipment. © SpeXparts

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SpeXparts’ stand at PaintExpo, the leading trade fair for industrial paint and coating technologies.paint and coating technologies.

ADVANCEMENTS

The EcoSupply P Core Minimises Paint and Rinsing Agent Losses Carina Lachnit Dürr Systems AG, Bietigheim-Bissingen – Germany

carina.lachnit@durr.com

EcoSupply P Core is a new paint supply system developed by Dürr for industrial applications.

T

he new EcoSupply P Core is a modular paint supply system based

colours as a unique selling point for themselves and their products.

on pigging technology. This paint supply method has already proved

Manufacturers from the construction and plastic industries, for example,

beneficial in the automotive painting world, but Dürr has gone one

require a multitude of available shades to cater to their customers’ needs.

step further and enhanced it for use in other industries for the first time.

However, each colour change in the supply line results in paint and rinsing

The EcoSupply P Core is now adaptable wherever different paint colours

agent waste during the painting process.

are applied in small quantities, such as in the construction, woodworking

This can involve disproportionately high costs, particularly with very small

or automotive supplier industries. This system efficiently recovers unused

quantities. This is because current paint supply systems clean the hoses

paint, minimizing rinsing agent consumption and speeding up colour

using solvent and compressed air to remove all paint and rinsing residues

changes. The desire for a comprehensive colour palette extends beyond

left behind before preparation of the next colour run can begin. This

the automotive industry. Customers use their colour preferences as

process is laborious and time-consuming, with longer and thicker hoses

unique identifiers in other industries, whereas companies use distinctive

resulting in higher paint losses.

© Dürr

Pigging technology reduces paint and rinsing agent consumption by returning the paint left in the hose after application to the paint container.

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ADVANCEMENTS

© Dürr

The source station (shown here) is the pig’s starting point.

The material pushes the pig from the source station through the distributor station to the destination station.

Pigging technology reduces paint consumption

Starter kit with everything you need

For pigging technology, Dürr uses a fitting body tailored to the internal

Dürr’s starter kit contains all important components, including a

diameter of the hoses – the so-called pig – to make the process more

source and destination module, a distributor station for connecting

efficient and reduce paint and rinsing agent consumption. The paint,

to the application technology, hoses (which come in lengths of up to

flowing through the pigging hose, pushes the pig from the source to the

100 meters), and the pig itself. The starter kit also includes sensors for

target module. This process removes any rinsing agent residue in the

monitoring the pig position, maintenance and commissioning tools, and

hose. Distributor stations, with the option of integrating up to four into

EcoDocu-technical documentation in digital format, complete with system

one pigging line, provide the connection to the application technology.

examples.

After the paint application, compressed air blows the pig back towards the source module. In the process, the paint left in the hose is transported

Twenty-five years of experience in pigging technology

back into the paint container. Rinsing agent then flows through the

The EcoSupply P Core offers the manufacturing sector a cost-effective,

pigging hose towards the destination module. After cleaning, the process

easy-to-use paint supply solution for smaller quantities and applications

repeats.

in the low-pressure range. The new development is the culmination of

Faster colour changes and simplified maintenance

Dürr’s 25 years of experience with the pigging technology featured in the EcoSupply P. Globally recognized, this tried-and-tested paint supply

The EcoSupply P Core comes in single-pass and circulating versions and

system with pigging technology has established its effectiveness in

is suitable for applying both water and solvent-based paints. In both

automotive painting.

instances, reduced effort makes for faster colour changes. Additionally, the modular design simplifies maintenance, allowing flexible configuration of individual components to adapt to user requirements and integrate into existing systems. Thus, the EcoSupply P Core can also integrate with other Dürr systems, such as the EcoSupply2 Core paint supply station.

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

115

ADVANCEMENTS

Ikaro, the Latest Innovation in Portable Sphere Spectrophotometry Edited by FRANCHI & KIM Performance Coatings S.p.A., Castenedolo (Brescia) - Italy

Franchi&Kim has launched Ikaro, the new integrated colourimetry system consisting of a mobile app for formulation, a spectrophotometer, and two software packages, one for time-saving and travel-free order management and one for quick and easy colour tone formulation and correction.

I

nnovation has always driven progress in the vast panorama of

© IKARO

colourimetry-related technology. Franchi&Kim is proud to present an epoch-making breakthrough in this field: Ikaro1, the first portable

sphere spectrophotometer controlled and managed from a smartphone via a formulation app. A combination of scientific precision and modern practicality destined to radically transform the way all colour operators work.

Ikaro’s development The Ikaro project goes back a long way: the idea to simplify colour detection and, above all, formulation management was conceived in 2019. Over the years, our colourimetry and tintometry department has dedicated its time to finding the ideal device for the best performance, while our software development team realised the dream through its vast colourimetric and mathematical know-how, encapsulating the necessary functions into quick and easy formulation steps.

Our company’s vision for this innovation is based on three objectives:  facilitating and speeding up colour detection with a mobile app;  performing remote data collection and colour formulation by immediately sending the production order to a retailer;  broadening the range of users of colourimetric tools, including non-specialised operators and businesses that have never considered investing in spectrophotometers and related software for economic reasons. With Ikaro, all users and retailers can replace multi-angle colourimeters and spectrophotometers with devices capable of formulating products from scratch, thus avoiding needing to derive the closest hue to the detected one from the stored ones.

Technical features Specifically, Ikaro is an integrated colourimetry ecosystem consisting of a mobile formulation app, a portable spectrophotometer, and optional, easy-to-use order and formulation management software.

1

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www.ikaro-spectro.com

ADVANCEMENTS

Combining these elements enables to formulate

© IKARO

and correct pastel tints quickly and easily, as well as manage their related production orders.

Indeed, the device is connected to a centralised database on an ultra-performing cloud server, which processes the various requests and instantly delivers formulations and recipes based on pre-set parameters.

Ikaro is a revolutionary application that uses a spectrophotometer with diffuse d/8° sphere geometry and LED technology. It is not a multi-angle handheld device. It is a newgeneration ergonomic instrument capable of ensuring high-quality spectral distribution, high measurement speed, and excellent colour detection accuracy through the 31 points derived from the reflectance curve between 400 and 700 nm.The new frontier of colourimetry is reached thanks to complete, remote colour management through the Order Sender module: from formulation to correction, up to the automatic sending of orders directly from the mobile app to the desktop order management software package. The app enables to define the formulation parameters, consult the archive of measurements, formulations, and executed orders, and use the most common colour charts on the market as starting points. It is

© IKARO

also possible to integrate the Ikaro Formula tool whenever formulation and quality control tasks are required relating to ingredient priorities, colour combinations, and other aspects concerning colour coordinates and tolerance values.

3-step operation With three simple steps and a few clicks, you can detect, formulate, and order a colour wherever you are.

STEP 1: detection After connecting the spectrophotometer to the smartphone app via Bluetooth, it is possible to detect the sample to be reproduced or choose a tint from a colour chart. The app handles all colour detection and product selection operations and sends the data to the server.

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STEP 2: formulation and correction

 sustainability: the cost is lower than that of conventional colourimetric

The cloud server performs the necessary calculations on the pre-set

instruments while maintaining the high technical level of the most

databases and generates the formulation for the desired colour and the

expensive tools on the market.

required quantity. Any correction of the generated formulation can also

In other words, Ikaro brings a new, revolutionary experience for

be made from the app.

both retailers and end users to elevate their technical expertise and profession. This project is aimed at all distributors that wish to provide

STEP 3: production order

their customers (coaters, body shops, manufacturing companies in

Once the formulation has been defined, this is sent to the desktop order

different product sectors) with a loyalty-based service while managing

management software package with the quantity needed per product so

colour remotely and obtaining orders without the physical availability of

the required order can be sent to production.

samples in their point-of-sale’s tintometric laboratory.

With its cutting-edge technology, ease of use, and ability to significantly

Ikaro’s advantages

improve the colour formulation process, Ikaro is set to become the new

Some of the benefits of this new system can be summarised as follows:

colourimetry standard in the paint market. Its outstanding power and

 time savings: it is not necessary to visit a customer’s premises to

advanced functionality promise to transform how colours are created

collect samples and to one’s own tinting laboratory to deliver colour

and managed, enabling users to achieve excellent results faster, more

references;

efficiently, and more accurately than ever before.

 autonomy: end-users are independent of their retailers in detecting

At your fingertips and within everyone’s reach.

colours and sharing formulations and orders;  ease of use: even non-specialised operators or those not used to utilising colourimetric instruments can detect a tint with just a few clicks,

© IKARO

thanks to the innovative app-based management system;

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PRETREATMENT & WATER TREATMENT

OUR SKILLS INNOVATION PERFORMANCE NANO TECHNOLOGY R&D ESG TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

a Dollmar Group Company

BRAND-NEW

IMEL Supplies Rossi Spa with a New Environmentally Friendly and Flexible Coating Plant Rossi Spa has installed a new liquid coating system for its gearboxes, gearmotors, and electric motors and has chosen IMEL as the right partner for its design and implementation.

B

elonging to the HABASIT GROUP, Rossi Spa has been a world leader in the production of gearboxes, gearmotors, and electric motors

used in even the most demanding applications for over seventy years. Recently, it has equipped one of its production sites with a new state-of-the-art coating line supplied by IMEL Spa (Codroipo, Udine, Italy), specialising in the design and installation of coating systems since 1964. This further strengthens IMEL’s presence in the Italian market and consolidates its position as a high-level supplier in the industrial coating sector.

The line was started up successfully and perfectly on time through meticulous engineering and activity coordination. It is characterised by flexible coating cycles and accurate climate control of the process chambers. Specifically, it can apply paint products in

© IMEL Spa

one or two coats, either manually or automatically and with or without an intermediate drying stage. In addition, it was conceived to be highly compact and save space through careful design, a characteristic that has always distinguished IMEL’s systems. Another strength of this plant is its ecological aspect, as it is powered by LPG and self-produced electricity and uses only water-based paints.

This collaboration with such a prestigious customer has also enabled IMEL to further prove its skills in building reliable plants for the high-end industry sector.

For further information: www.imelspa.com

© IMEL Spa

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BRAND-NEW

Lyndee Brassieur is the New Vice-President EHS of PPG PPG has appointed Lyndee Brassieur as Vice-President EHS to help the company with its focus on advancing employee safety, incident prevention and regulatory compliance.

© PPG

T

he international paints and coatings manufacturer PPG has recently announced that

Lyndee Brassieur has been named Vice-President for environment, health and safety (EHS): She will focus on advancing employee safety, incident prevention and regulatory compliance.

Lyndee Brassieur played a key role in defining and overseeing operational excellence and manufacturing strategies at PPG’s global SCM manufacturing facilities.

In her 25 years of industrial experience, she has held various roles of increasing responsibility

for production and continuous improvement as well as environmental, health and safety management. Additionally, she holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering with a concentration in environmental sciences from McNeese State University in Lake Charles (USA).

“Congratulations to Lyndee on her appointment to this key leadership role at PPG. Our most important core value is the health, safety and well-being of our employees, customers and communities. I am confident that under Lyndee’s leadership, our teams will be able to further demonstrate our commitment to the environment, and the health and safety of our people,” has stated Ram Vadlamannati, senior Vice-President operations at PPG. For further information: www.ppg.com

www.fatisrl.com 0039 031 655688 | info@fatisrl.com Via Carlo Porta 14 - 23861 - Cesana B.za (LC) - Italy

BRAND-NEW

CMA Robotics: for 30 Years, Innovative and Comprehensive Solutions for Industrial Coating CMA Robotics, one of the leading manufacturers of coating robots, celebrated its 30th anniversary.

E

ver since the launch of its first robot in Italy’s Friuli Venezia Giulia

opportunity to grow and achieve the results we can now see and share,”

region in 1994, CMA has been developing a well-established

proudly added the other founding member, Marco Zanor.

global presence in the most diverse fields of application. It offers

The floor then passed to the president of the Efort Group, You Wei,

complete solutions, courses, and a laboratory carrying out tests and

who recalled his first meeting with CMA in China and the beginning

simulation trials in total safety, which allows verifying the results of a

of a fruitful collaboration. The event was also attended by numerous

robotic application process on each customer’s components.

representatives of the local authorities, including the Councillor for

CMA Robotics is recognised as one of the most technologically advanced

Productive Activities and Tourism Sergio Emidio Bini, the General

companies in the world of robotic coating, capable of guaranteeing high

Director of Confindustria Michele Nencioni, and Beppino Govetto, the

quality with up-to-date certifications and easy-to-use equipment. It is

Mayor of Pavia Di Udine, where CMA Robotics’ headquarters is located.

now part of a large group of companies focused on robotics, the Efort

“CMA has a vocation for innovation, which translates into a mission

Group. For this Italian company, having an international team means

that enables us to be still here after 30 years and that will enable us to

sharing research, development, projects, and innovation to create

be at the top of our industry in the coming years as well,” concluded

new technological, commercial, and financial synergies that can meet

Marco Zanor. Toasts, music, and smiles then filled this celebration,

multiple customer needs quickly and reliably.

held at the company’s recently renovated premises together with

“Gathering here, once again, to celebrate our achievements and cast a

employees, customers, suppliers, and collaborators, in a unique setting

glance into our future honours us and fills us with joy,” said Sergio Della

encompassing its history and future of great successes.

Mea, one of the founding members of CMA Robotics during the 30th anniversary celebration. “Every single employee, customer, supplier, and collaborator we have met over the years has given CMA the

For further information: www.cmarobotics.com

© CMA Robotics

© CMA Robotics

CMA Robotic’s team and the president of the Efort Group, You Wei, with CMA Robotics’ founding partners, Sergio Della Mea and Marco Zanor.

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BRAND-NEW

BYK-Gardner Presents a Seminar on New Solutions for Quality Control The BYK-Gardner seminar will address the latest technological innovations in quality control instruments.

B

YK-Gardner has announced a one-day free seminar that will highlight the latest technological innovations in quality control instruments. The event will focus on:

 Ultrasonic multi-layer thickness gauge;  Surface texture;  Visual and instrumental color evaluation;  Appearance control;  New smart-chart software functions;  News on physical properties testing equipment.

The seminar – which includes lunch and coffee break – will take place on Thursday 4th July 2024 at the CDH Hotel Parma & Congressi, from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. You can register until June 14th by sending an e-mail to sara.malanchini@altana.com or by completing the specific form at this page:

© BYK

https://seu1.cleverreach.com/f/163470-237345/

BRAND-NEW

Dürr Received a PACE Award for Its EcoInCure Oven Concept The EcoInCure oven concept from Dürr was recognised with the PACE award for its improved curing performances on car bodies.

T

he German company Dürr has proudly announced that it has won the PACE Award for the time year in a

row, this time thanks to its EcoInCure oven concept, which addresses critical customer requirements such as topcoat paint quality and improved overall curing performance for car bodies.

The 29th annual PACE Awards competition,

presented by Automotive News, was open to suppliers that contribute products, processes, materials or services directly to the manufacture of cars or trucks. The winners have been selected by an independent review board.

The EcoInCure oven has been specifically developed to cure complex car bodies with superior paint quality faster and more efficiently than conventional solutions, in order to exceed the evolving needs of drying both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles

© Dürr

and electric vehicles.

“We are very excited that our technology has been recognised as a cutting-edge innovation that shapes the automotive industry. The EcoInCure from Dürr stands for a new generation of car body curing. It does not only ensure the best surface quality, but is also by far the most sustainable oven system on the market thanks to its design and potential use of renewable electricity,” has declared Mark © Dürr

Murray, the director of sales and marketing for Dürr in North America.

For further information: www.durr.com

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Protection upgraded

Specialità chimiche per il trattamento delle superfici Lavaggio Industriale

Pretrattamento metalli alla verniciatura

Lavaggio di precisione

Processi di conversione esenti

Sgrassanti interoperazionali

Cromo e Fosfati

Miscele di tensioattivi

Fosfatanti a bassa temperatura

Protezione temporanea

Passivanti per acciaio zincato a caldo Passivazione conduttiva su Alluminio TCP

Galvanica Funzionale

Galvanica Decorativa

Zinco e leghe di zinco

Rame, Nichel e Cromo

Passivanti e Sigillanti

Deposizione su plastica (POP)

Rivestimenti resistenti all'usura

Stagno e leghe di Stagno

Pretrattamento

Pretrattamento

SurTec Italia Sas di Externa Holding Srl Via Boito, 251 Tel.: +39 059 8579901 41019 Soliera (MO) E-Mail: info-it@surtec.com Italia Web: www.SurTec.com

© DifferR/Shutterstock

ADVANCEMENTS

Energy Savings Hinge on Pump Selection and Installation Paul Cardon Mouvex® PSG - Terrace (IL), USA

paul.cardon@psgdover.com

Low-power consumption pumps, like the Mouvex G-FLO Series eccentric disc pump, paired with design modifications help operators obtain noticeable energy savings in paint and coatings operations.

T

he cost of energy has dramatically increased in recent years, a

essential as these costs are unlikely to change in the foreseeable future.

break from its traditional patterns over the past few decades. The

Among all items in an industrial production process, pumping systems

rapid shift in these costs caused all industries to take measures

can be among the most “power hungry.” According to the Hydraulic

aimed at energy savings wherever possible. These new behaviours are

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Institute (USA), pumping systems account for nearly 20% of the world’s

ADVANCEMENTS

© PSG

Figure 1 - The typical cost breakdown for a positive displacement pump over its lifetime.

electrical energy demand. In these times of pricey and scarce energy, it

durability, and aesthetics converge for enhanced product offerings and

is paramount to find different ways to reduce their power consumption.

widespread utility.

Any industry that uses pumps can find energy savings by evaluating

This whitepaper will examine the costs associated with a common pump

their equipment. This holds especially true for a pump-heavy industry:

technology – positive displacement (PD) – used in this industry and

paint and coatings. Fundamentally consisting of pigments suspended

how one shines above the others as the most economical and energy

in a liquid medium, paint and coatings have evolved from primitive

efficient.

substances like charcoal and berry juice to sophisticated compounds manufactured through high-tech processes.

Life cycle cost of a pump

Over the past 25 years, the industry has seen a transformation driven

The typical cost breakdown for a positive displacement pump over its

by new coating technologies. These technologies replace traditional

lifetime is showed in Figure 1.

solvent-based formulations with eco-friendly alternatives such as water-

The initial costs (blue) are only paid once during the installation phase.

based paints, low-VOC coatings and powder coatings. Innovations like

These are minor costs associated with a pump’s total cost of ownership.

nanotechnology and smart coatings further enhance performance and

The major costs are those shown in different shades of brown, which

aesthetics, shaping a diverse and vital global market.

are paid during the life of the installation. Energy represents almost half

Today, paint and coatings play pivotal roles in various applications,

of the total cost of ownership among total expenditures. Rising energy

including traffic markings, house coatings, automobile exteriors, and

prices will cause that percentage to increase, impacting the overall cost

packaging materials. This evolution underscores a stark departure from

of the pump’s total cost of ownership.

primitive origins, demonstrating how technological advancements have

There are mainly two areas to focus on to reduce energy consumption:

propelled the industry into a realm where environmental consciousness,

the pump and the installation.

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127

Focusing on these two areas, either when designing a new installation or improving an existing one, can, in some extreme cases, lead to energy consumption divided by three.

The pump

© PSG

Figure 2 - Chart of the rotation of an eccentric disc pump.

Several positive displacement pumping technologies are available on the market.

However, they are far from equal in terms of energy consumption. In both cases above and in most others, the same pumping technology appears to be the most economical: The Mouvex® G-FLO Series seal-less eccentric disc pump1.

Why is this pumping technology considered energy efficient?

Single shaft Some pumping technologies are based on a two-shaft design with timing gears. Gears and more bearings generate extra friction on the power end (with parts rotating in lubricating oil) and the wet end (parts rotating in pumped product).

© PSG

Figure 3 – Pumping technologies absorbed power (HP) and global efficiency 20 m3/h (90 GPM), 1,000 cSt, 5 bar (70 psi).

The Mouvex G-FLO Series has only one shaft, which rotates in clean oil inside double or triple bellows, isolating it from the pumped product. This minimizes friction, lessening the impact on its energy consumption.

No rotating parts in the pumped product The Mouvex G-FLO Series eccentric disc technology is based on two pumping parts: a static cylinder and a moving disc, which does not rotate but rather follows a circular translation around the cylinder. Eccentric disc pumps consist of a cylinder and pumping element mounted on an eccentric shaft. As the eccentric shaft is rotated, the pumping element forms chambers within the cylinder, which increase in size at the intake port, drawing fluid into the pumping chamber.

The fluid is transported to the discharge

© PSG

Figure 4 - Pumping technologies absorbed power (HP) and global efficiency 15 m3/h (66 GPM), 6,000 cSt, 8 bar (115 psi).

port where the pumping chamber size is decreased. This action squeezes the fluid out https://www.psgdover.com/mouvex/products/eccentric-disc-pumps/g-flo-series

1

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ADVANCEMENTS

into the discharge piping (Fig. 2). The differential linear speed

GLOBAL SOLUTIONS FOR WATER TREATMENT

with a complete service that includes system design manufacturing, installation, technical support and chemicals

between the cylinder and disc is low and equal at every point of the disc. This “slow motion” requires less energy than pumps with rotating parts, which function with high peripheric speed.

No bushings in the pumped product Some pumping technologies are based on a shaft held by bushings in the pumping chamber. Though manufactured in materials offering a low friction coefficient, these parts are still in a friction zone. As mentioned earlier, in the Mouvex G-FLO, the rotating shaft is not in contact with the pumped product but instead protected by multiple-layer stainless steel bellows. The only parts in contact with the product are the casing, bellows and the disc/cylinder set.

No mechanical seal A mechanical seal is based on the friction between two rotating faces. These faces show a low friction coefficient, but extra energy is needed to overcome this, especially in a multiple seal arrangement (up to four mechanical seals on pumps with two shafts). Additionally, a double mechanical seal requires a fluid barrier that generates energy consumption: fluid circulation, control, etc.

Seal-less solutions, such as magnetic drive, which do not have friction parts, still require more power because of the strong magnetic fields needed for torque transmission.

The Mouvex G-FLO Pump has no mechanical seal or magnets.

Shaft tightness is provided by the bellows, linked to the pump casing on one side and to the disc on the other side. This solution does not generate any extra friction while providing total containment and lessening the need for frequent maintenance.

Lower rotation speed In many cases, Mouvex G-FLO Series pumps maintain lower shaft rotation speed for equal flow rate and differential pressure. In most applications, a Mouvex pump will have a rotation speed

SPRAY BOOTHS WATER SLUDGE REMOVAL RESIN DEMINERALIZATION SYSTEMS REMEDIATION OF CONTAMINATED SITES BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS BATCH TREATMENTS PHYSICAL-CHEMICAL SYSTEMS ADSORPTION FILTRATION REVERSE OSMOSIS MEMBRANE SYSTEMS EVAPORATORS BIOGAS BIOMASS SYSTEMS OIL SEPARATORS DESANDERS DESALINATION SYSTEMS PYROCHAR OTHER SYSTEMS CHEMICALS

between one and two times lower than other technologies. A lower speed requires less energy and improves the durability of moving parts, such as bearings.

Even with a lower speed, the Mouvex G-FLO Series Pump can reach a flow rate of up to 70 m3/h (308.2 GPM) and 10 bar (145 psi). On mid/lower viscosities, and for identical flow rate and pressure conditions, deltas up to 40% can be observed between different pumping technologies. With higher viscosities, discrepancies can sometime be even more spectacular with up to

srl

90% gaps (Figs. 3 and 4).

Via Torricelli, 79 - Z.I. Fossatone 40059 MEDICINA (BO) - tel. (+39) 051 856263 info@hydroitalia.com - www.hydroitalia.com

Performance in paint and coatings Paint and coatings manufacturers must select pump technology that ensures product quality and energy efficiency. Some pumps can achieve product quality but falter with energy efficiency and vice versa.

Eccentric disc pumps, such as the Mouvex G-FLO, offer performance attributes that ensure the best quality prduct while keeping energy costs down.

Unlike traditional pumps reliant on centrifugal force, eccentric disc pumps precisely displace a fixed amount of fluid per rotation, maintaining consistent flow rates regardless of pressure or viscosity fluctuations.

This design ensures reliable performance with challenging fluids and minimizes energy consumption by reducing internal friction and turbulence, yielding noticeable energy savings for industrial production processes.

Installation Piping diameter © PSG

Many operators will look to save on costs Figure 5 – Friction loss in psi per foot of piping for a 10 m /h (50 GPM) flow rate.

3

by selecting smaller-diameter piping when possible. Smaller diameter piping is cheaper and does not need as much support as larger variants.

However, these are the typical costs of the “blue section” in Figure 1: they are only paid once during the installation phase. However, this parameter can have a huge influence on pumping installation power consumption, meaning the real expense will be paid over the lifetime of the installation.

Low-viscosity products will not have a negative effect on a smaller-diameter piping system.

As viscosities rise, however, those smaller diameters will become problematic.

The example of a complete installation shown in Figures 5 and 6 will demonstrate how important this parameter can be regarding energy consumption.

Let’s consider this installation with the

© PSG

Figure 6 – Example of a complete installation.

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following parameters:

ADVANCEMENTS

Flow Rate:

10 m3/h (44 GPM)

Viscosity:

500 cSt.

SUCTION LINE Piping Length:

2 m (7 ft)

2 Butterfly Valves

DISCHARGE LINE Piping Length:

40 m (130 ft)

6 Elbows 2 Butterfly Valves 6 m (20 Ft.) Lift

If we build the installation with 40 mm (1.5”) piping, the resulting differential pressure on the pump ports will be 9.2 bar (133 psi). If the differential pressure is within the selected pump limits, the installation will operate without issues.

But let’s see what happens if we build the installation with 50 mm (2”) piping (only one standard pipe size above).

Differential pressure drops down to 3.7 bar (54 psi).

Regarding energy consumption, the result on the pump’s absorbed power is telling (Fig. 7). By selecting a slightly larger piping, power consumption and costs drop from 37% to more than 50%, depending on the selected pumping technology.

By increasing the piping diameter and switching to a more energy-efficient pumping technology – like the Mouvex G-FLO Series – the difference becomes exponentially greater, dividing the energy consumption by three in some cases.

The next question is whether we would gain even more by enlarging the piping again. If we use DN65 (2.5”) piping, differential pressure will decrease to 2.9 bar (42 psi), compared to 3.7 bar (54 psi) with DN50 (2”) piping (Fig. 8).

This time, the delta is reduced, and the absorbed power reduction is not as substantial; it comes close to zero for some pumping technologies.

From top to bottom: Figure 7 – Adsorbed power (HP) vs. piping diameter with 38.1 and 50.8 mm (1.5” and 2”) piping.

Figure 8 - Adsorbed power (HP) vs. piping diameter with 38.1, 50.8 and 63.5 mm (1.5”, 2” and 2.5”) piping.

Figure 9 – Friction loss (psi) in a 3 m (10 ft.) long, 65 mm (2.5”) pipe with a 10 m3 (44 GPM) flow rate and 1,000 cSt viscosity.

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Piping design

do not consider the energy savings that are possible with pumping

Another way to reduce energy consumption is by “streamlining” piping

installations. By selecting low power consumption pumps like the

with as few elbows as possible and only strictly necessary ancillaries.

Mouvex G-FLO Series combined with the proper design of new

A simple example reveals this. Consider a piping section with the

installations and the improvement of existing ones, operators can

possible designs showed in Figure 9: in this short section, the resulting

generate noticeable energy savings on industrial production processes.

friction loss can be multiplied by five depending on the design and ancillaries.

About Mouvex

Naturally, more pressure means more energy consumption.

Mouvex was created in 1906 and is a leading brand of positive displacement pumps, screw compressors, and hydraulic coolers for use

Piping length

in the refined-fuels, oilfield, energy, food/ sanitary, military, transport,

Longer piping on a pumping system will generate more friction loss,

and chemical-process industries.

resulting in a higher pump operating differential pressure. With other

Mouvex is a product brand of PSG®, a Dover company. Headquartered

equal parameters, the friction loss is proportional to the piping length.

in Oakbrook Terrace, IL, USA, PSG is comprised of several world-class

It is not always possible to shorten the piping on an existing site.

brands, including Abaque®, All-Flo™, Almatec®, Blackmer®, Ebsray®, em-

However, when designing a new one, this parameter should be

tec®, Griswold®, Hydro™, Malema™, Mouvex®, Neptune®, PSG® Biotech,

considered. It will reduce the building and operating costs.

Quantex™, Quattroflow®, and Wilden®. PSG products are manufactured

Conclusion

on three continents – North America, Europe and Asia – in state-of the-art facilities that practice lean manufacturing and are ISO-certified.

Lighting, heating or heavy manufacturing equipment are often targeted

PSG is part of the Pumps & Process Solutions segment of Dover

as the first items to reduce to obtain energy savings. Some operators

Corporation.

© PSG

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Innovation.

Inspiration.

Impact.

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COLOUR STUDY

Oregon State Researchers Advance Pigment Chemistry with Moon-Inspired Reddish Magentas Steve Lundeberg Oregon State University, Corvalis (OR) – United States

steve.lundeberg@oregonstate.edu

The researchers from the Oregon State University have developed new chromium-based reddish magenta pigments taking inspiration from the moon. © ipcm / generated with AI

COLOUR STUDY

A

n Oregon State University researcher who made colour history in 2009 with a vivid blue pigment has developed durable, reddish magentas inspired by lunar mineralogy and ancient

Egyptian chemistry. Mas Subramanian, distinguished professor of chemistry, and collaborators at OSU report the findings of the study, funded by the National Science Foundation, in the journal Chemistry of Materials1.

The new pigments, which could be used as energy-efficient coatings for vehicles and buildings, are based on divalent chromium, Cr2+, and are the first to use it as a chromophore; chromophores are the parts of a molecule that determine colour by reflecting some wavelengths of light while absorbing others.

“To date, no earth-based mineral has been reported to contain chromium in the divalent state as one of the components,” said Subramanian, the Milton Harris Professor of Materials Science in the OSU College of Science. “However, the analysis of lunar mineral samples collected from Apollo missions showed the occurrence of chromium in the divalent state.”

Divalent chromium has the same number of unpaired electrons as trivalent manganese, the chromophore responsible for the intense colour of YInMn blue2, which Subramanian’s team discovered 15 years ago. The Shepherd Colour Company licensed3 YInMn blue for use in a wide range of coatings and plastics, and it also inspired a new Crayola crayon colour4: Bluetiful.

When YInMn blue was discovered, researchers had been experimenting with new materials that could be used in electronics applications

© Mas Subramanian/Wikimedia Commons

Photograph of YInMn Blue as synthesized in the laboratory.

and mixed manganese oxide – which is black in colour – with other chemicals, then heated them in a furnace to nearly 2,400 degrees

“Most of the magenta-coloured pigments used today are organic

Fahrenheit. One of their samples turned out to be a brilliant blue,

chemicals and suffer from stability issues when exposed to ultraviolet

named YInMn blue after the component elements yttrium, indium and

rays and heat from the sun because they can break down organic

manganese. It was the first blue pigment discovery in two centuries and

chemical bonds,” Subramanian said. “Inorganic magenta pigments are

a huge advance in safety and durability as well as vividness.

rare, and most require a significant amount of cobalt salts that are

In the new study, Subramanian, research associate Jun Li and graduate

hazardous to both humans and the environment.”

student Anjali Verma were inspired by the divalent copper that serves

The magenta pigments developed by OSU researchers are thermally

as a chromophore in Egyptian blue, which is the world’s first known

and chemically inert because of their high preparation temperature and

synthetic pigment and dates to more than 5,000 years ago.

remain unaltered structurally and optically upon exposure to acid and

The researchers replaced the divalent copper in Egyptian blue with

alkali, the authors note.

divalent chromium, leading to durable, reddish magenta pigments.

In addition, unlike pigments that contain cobalt, the chromium-based

To stabilize the divalent chromium on Earth, researchers maintained

magenta pigments are highly reflective of heat from the sun – meaning

high temperatures, almost 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, under high

they have a cooling property that would lead to energy savings for cars

vacuum during the synthesis that started from chromium metal,

and structures coated in them.

chromium trioxide and other chemicals.

“Most pigments are discovered by chance,” Subramanian said. “The

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.chemmater.4c00253 2 https://www.ipcm.it/en/open/ipcm/2023/80/136.aspx 3 https://today.oregonstate.edu/archives/2015/may/licensing-agreement-reached-brilliant-new-blue-pigment-discovered-happy-acciden 4 https://today.oregonstate.edu/archives/2017/may/pigment-discovered-oregon-state-university-inspires-new-crayola-crayon-color 1

reason is because the origin of the colour of a material depends not only on the chemical composition but also on the intricate arrangement of atoms in the crystal structure. So someone has to make the material first in a laboratory, then study its crystal structure thoroughly to explain the colour.”

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

135

© Oregon State University

Crystal structure CaCr2+Si4O10.

Despite recent advances in quantum mechanical theories and

The grant is known by the acronym EAGER5, which stands for Early

computational methods, predicting a crystal structure that will produce

Concepts Grants for Exploratory Research.

an intense inorganic pigment of a desired colour is still elusive, he added.

About the OSU College of Science

“We got lucky the first time with YInMn blue, and now we are coming

As one of the largest academic units at OSU, the College of Science has

up with some fundamental chemical and crystal structural design

seven departments and 12 pre-professional programs. It provides the

principles to rationally create new pigments,” he said. “Determining the

basic science courses essential to the education of every OSU student,

key structural ingredients required for making vivid colours should allow

builds future leaders in science, and its faculty are international leaders

for shorter times between pigment discoveries. Science doesn’t always

in scientific research.

follow a prescribed path, but we’re exploring pigments with divalent chromium as a chromophore in diverse coordination environments in crystal structures of various inorganic compounds.”

The NSF funding for the just-published study was a special grant earmarked for high-risk, high-reward research.

136

N. 87 - MAY/JUNE 2024 - international PAINT&COATING magazine

5

https://www.nsf.gov/pubs/policydocs/pappguide/nsf09_1/gpg_2.jsp#IID2

STANDARD & LEGISLATION - UCIF Informs

The 5.0 Transition Plan Goes Beyond Industry Manuela Casali UCIF – Italian Surface Treatment Equipment Manufacturers’ Association, Milan, Italy

info@ucif.net

In the global industrial landscape, the advent of technology marked an era of unprecedented transformation.

The Industry 4.0 paradigm brought a significant step forward in the automation and digitalisation of production phases. However, the evolution process has not stopped yet. This article deals with Transition 5.0 and how the shift towards the fifth revolution is leading to overcoming the very concept of “industry”.

I

ndustry 4.0 has revolutionised how factories produce goods

At the same time, it should be highlighted that one element was omitted

by integrating advanced technologies such as the Internet of

in the transition from 4.0 to 5.0: the word “Industry”. This is probably

Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics. The resulting

because Transition 5.0 focuses on a broader and more holistic view of

transformation has led to greater efficiency, flexibility, and customisation

society beyond the mere industrial context. A concept has been lost

in production, paving the way for new business opportunities and

concerning change that starts from and is for the benefit of industry,

process improvements.

broadening the socio-economic landscape.

On the other hand, the Transition 5.0 concept refers to the process of

In other words, whereas Industry 4.0 mainly refers to the digitalisation

adaptation and change required to move from the current economic

and automation of industrial processes, Transition 5.0 fosters a more

and industrial model (often associated with Industry 4.0) to a new

inclusive perspective embracing social, environmental, and economic

paradigm that integrates humanity, sustainability, and technological

aspects. While continuing to integrate advanced technologies into the

innovation. It is based on the idea that technological innovation,

industry, Transition 5.0 recognises that technological innovation alone is

although necessary, cannot be the sole driver of social and economic

insufficient to address the complex global challenges our society faces.

development. On the contrary, it emphasises balancing economic

Transition 5.0 – again, without the word “Industry” – implies a more

growth with human welfare and environmental sustainability.

integrated, future-oriented vision that promotes sustainability, equity,

This transition entails a change not only in infrastructure and industrial

human well-being, and harmony with the environment, in addition

processes but also in society’s values and priorities. It requires adopting

to economic growth. This approach applies not only to the industry

advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and

but also to other sectors such as education, health, energy, and

the Internet of Things, but with an emphasis on social responsibility,

so on. Therefore, whereas Industry 4.0 focuses specifically on the

equity, and creating an inclusive work environment. In essence,

industrial sphere, Transition 5.0 broadens its scope to include a more

Transition 5.0 aims to create a future in which technological innovation

comprehensive, inclusive vision of social and economic progress.

serves humanity and sustainability rather than being an end in itself.

That is one of the themes on which UCIF invites its members and their

That also calls for close collaboration among governments, businesses,

guests to reflect, exploring them in depth through its We Talks, web

academic institutions, and civil society to develop policies and practices

conferences on subjects of topical interest to the surface finishing and

that promote equitable, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth.

treatment industry.

© AdobeStock

MEETING THE INDUSTRY

An Interview with Fanny Chauvin, Micronora Director Micronora will take place from 24th to 27th September 2024 at Besançon (France). including some from the USA and Canada

company can change its entire machine park,

this year, countries that have had little or

we will be showing how traditional machines

no representation in previous editions. This

can be made more intelligent with just a few

testifies to the vitality and growing appeal of

modifications.

our event. We also note the growing demand from our exhibitors for larger surface areas.

What are the other highlights of

© Yoan Jeudy, SoSuite

Micronora 2024?

Fanny Chauvin

This year’s Zoom theme is intelligent

FC: For the 2024 edition, we have tried to

microtechnology. Could you tell us why

work in cooperation with the region in several

this is particularly relevant in today’s

areas. This year, you will discover a regional

industrial context?

village highlighting companies with fewer than

FC: At a time of dwindling resources and

15 employees working in microtechnology

energy issues, it is crucial for all sectors of

and precision, offering them 100% visibility

industry to integrate intelligent solutions

to visitors. In addition, we have launched a

into their businesses to be more efficient.

start-up village offer, with special support for

They help optimise production by analysing

regional start-ups.

data in real time, identifying inefficiencies,

As usual, a programme of technical

Can you give us an overview of the

and improving machine performance. What

conferences will be offered to exhibitors and

current marketing situation at Micronora

is more, their proper use can cut costs

visitors alike, and this year we will also have

this year?

by proactively planning maintenance, for

the pleasure of welcoming writer and trainer

Fanny Chauvin: To give our exhibitors a

example, or by optimising resource utilisation

Arthur Keller, a specialist in systemic risk and

perfect idea of the costs of participating

and minimising manufacturing defects.

resilience strategies, to open the program on

in Micronora, we had to start marketing

Finally, intelligence in production can foster

September 24th at 2.30pm. Those present at

campaign later than usual. However, we are

innovation by opening the way to new

this conference will no doubt say on leaving

very confident about this year’s edition, and

possibilities for improving processes and

they will have a before and after! I will leave

we are already almost 98% booked. Following

products, thus strengthening a company’s

you to find out.

the same trends as previous editions, we

competitiveness in a constantly evolving

Finally, we are planning a magnificent

will be welcoming around 33% international

industrial environment, and this is all the truer

exhibition on the theme of “From watchmaking

companies from some twenty countries,

in microtechnology, a sector that must always

know-how to the technologies of the future,”

demonstrating the global appeal of our trade

be at the cutting edge of innovation.

which will provide a unique opportunity to

fair. As usual, just over 80% of exhibitors

This year’s Zoom, the show’s flagship event, will

discover how the Micronora association and

remain loyal to us, and we thank them. With

focus on intelligent microtechnology, because

our fair have evolved over the years, and will

countless fields of application and the ability

we need digital twins, intelligent sensors, and

showcase manufacturers and their innovations

to transfer technologies from one sector to

solutions that enable us to correct machines

over the past 75 years.

another, microtechnology is an undeniable

if monitored measurements show a drift. We

asset that enables companies to diversify and

will also be presenting augmented reality

open to new markets. This is undoubtedly

solutions for predictive maintenance and

For further information:

why we regularly welcome new exhibitors,

assembly assistance. And because not every

www.micronora.com

international PAINT&COATING magazine - MAY/JUNE 2024 - N. 87

139

Questa testata è associata a

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Kevin Biller: ChemQuest Powder Coating Research

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Aluminum

finishing treatment From Anodizing & Painting Line to Waste Water Treatment Plant

Since 1981 CIE Group’s mission is to realize plants for Aluminum Finishing Lines. With more than 200 realizations the CIE Group is today one of the main worldwide leaders.

ANODIZING & PAINTING LINE

+39 02 9810470

www.cieengroup.it

info@cieeng.com - info@cisartgroup.com

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