2 minute read
Is automation amplifying production in inks and coatings?
from SW February 2023
by hillmedia
Automation is changing production processes for many industries. And those working in the research, production, and application of inks and coatings will know that there’s massive disruption for those working in the space.
The benefits for advanced automation within inks and coatings testing are clear – better repeatability, lower risk of human error, maximizing resources, better efficiencies, reduced cost –there’s a lot that paint manufacturers and laboratory managers should be thankful for.
But there’s also a lot to think about as the industry innovates at a razor-sharp pace – what are the biggest testing techniques that are affected? And how can those working in the space ensure quality control and R&D is never compromised?
Global test and inspection partner, Industrial Physics (the group that’s home to specialist testing brands such as TQC Sheen, C&W Specialist, and many more) answer some of these questions…
Improving processes with better testing
The landscape of testing within inks and coatings has changed significantly in recent years. And the type of testing techniques that we’ve witnessed evolving have been diverse.
You can access Industrial Physics’ exclusive guide to the evolution of inks and coatings here! https:// industrialphysics.com/industries/ inks-and-coatings/
Film applicators are a good example here – in the past, labs and manufacturers have always had to rely on human influence when applying coatings across various substrates. But now, with solutions like the TQC Sheen Automated Film Applicator, advanced technology enables automated application. This solution lets the user set applicators to a desired level.
Ultimately, it allows for better consistency, a more stable approach, a constant down speed, and depending on the viscosity of your coatings, the difference can be enormous. And that’s not even considering the risk of human error that is significantly reduced.
You can learn about the TQC Sheen Automated Film Applicator here! https://industrialphysics.com/product/ automatic-film-applicatorstandard/?utm_ medium=publication&utm_ source=website&utm_ campaign=surfaceworld_feb22
But it’s not just bigger test systems that are changing the industry – automated accessories can drastically disrupt testing. The TQC Sheen LinQ is a communication component that connects testing systems to independent software. Whether you’re conducting washability testing, viscosity testing, or film application, it doesn’t matter – the tool can be used across a variety of applications. The smart piece of equipment essentially enables you to control the settings of your larger testing system and automatically make adjustments according to more precise specifications – allowing you to achieve more accurate results than ever before. The tool allows you to eliminate hours of time waiting for results and means you can re-focus resources on more useful analysis.
Learn more about the TQC Sheen LinQ tool here! https://industrialphysics.com/ product/linq-system/?utm_ medium=publication&utm_ source=website&utm_ campaign=surfaceworld_feb22
If you’re looking to speed up your processes and discover a smarter way of testing your surfaces, then the team at Industrial Physics can help. Empowered by some of the greatest inks and coatings experts on the planet, there’s a broad range of solutions on offer to ensure the quality of your coatings!
Visit: https://industrialphysics.com/