Mack Molding has invested nearly $3 million to install a fully automated, Class A paint system in its Inman, S.C., molding facility. “This is the next logical step in a plan we launched nine years ago to transform the Inman plant into a super-large part molding and manufacturing center,” says Ray Burns, president of Mack Molding’s Southern Division. “While we have been painting for years, this new system applies a quality finish comparable to that of the automotive industry, which is critical to the recreational vehicle and large truck markets we are now pursuing.”
The 11,000 sq. ft. enclosed paint room is HEPA-filtered to minimize contamination, dirt, dust and airborne particulates. It features 1200 feet of conveyor, a five-stage wash and rinse system with ultra-high filtration, and three robotic paint booths positioned between a series of dryers and ovens. Full-sized painting robots are stationed in each booth and can apply up to three coats of paint, including primer, base and clear coat.
“The system uses an extremely efficient paint technology that attracts paint to the part via an electrostatic charge, minimizes paint usage, and applies a smoother coat,” explains Ken Kincaid, Mack technical engineering manager. “It also meets customer criteria for a Class A or automotive quality surface.”
Opens new doors
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