Gloss Magazine Issue 5 by BASF Australia and New Zealand

Issue 5 | Nov 2011

THE ORIGINAL AND STILL THE BEST: 25 YEARS OF BASF WATERBORNE BASECOATS Innovation in colour technology leads to breathtaking results Making a difference with the Bodyshop Emissions Program The Ringbrothers talk street machines

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GLASURIT – EDITOR'S LETTER | 03

EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome to BASF refinish magazine GLOSS issue 5. 2011 has proven to be a busy year and a year of change and upheaval not only in our industry, but on a global level. With the plethora of natural disasters that heralded the start of the year, to the global financial crisis that has taken hold of European markets, this year was always going to be a challenging one. Our local market is experiencing a period of dramatic shift in dynamics with regional, multi state and national groups focusing on cosmetic/rapid repair techniques. Insurance companies are requesting proposals for re-alignment of their networks and their continuing objectives to reduce waste and improve both efficiencies and service levels to their customers the policy holders. For Glasurit, we have had a number of exciting initiatives that we have been involved with over the past few months. The Collision Repair Expo in Melbourne was once again a huge success and a key event for us to meet with each of our customers one on one. We launched the new Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program at the show with very positive responses to date. This proactive program gives your Bodyshop the opportunity to make a difference to the environment through offsetting greenhouse emissions, but it also allows you to differentiate your business from those in your area. In this issue of GLOSS, we meet three Bodyshops that are signed up to the program and hear how it has made a positive impact on their business. The Bodyshop Emissions Program works hand in hand with the conversion to 90 LINE waterborne finishes. Conversion rates continue to climb at a very fast pace, and those shops that have made the change continue to reap the benefits of the change. The New Zealand market has been particularly proactive in changing to 90 LINE, and in this issue of GLOSS, we will speak to Phil Roff in NZ to get his input into why this is the case. I hope you enjoy the read as much as we enjoy producing the magazine. We travel far and wide to source interesting people and stories to feature in the magazine. This issue we were lucky enough to co-ordinate an interview between Ziggy and the Ringbrothers – two industry experts in street machines. On a personal note, I would like to wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season. If you have any further comments or feedback, please contact us on (02) 8787 0100.

Kind regards

IAN WILKINSON Business Director, Coatings BASF Australia Ltd

CONTENTS WATERBORNE 07 N Z LEADS THE WAY IN 90 LINE CONVERSIONS Our Kiwi counterparts enjoy the benefits of waterborne technology EMISSIONS 08 MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH THE GLASURIT BODYSHOP EMISSIONS PROGRAM Three bodyshops discuss how the program is helping the environment and their business FEATURES 04 BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL Ziggy speaks to world leaders in street machines, The Ringbrothers 10 AUDI E-TRON SPYDER SHINES WITH XCOLORS Innovative technology leads to breathtaking colour effects 12 DAIMLER INTRODUCES BASF iGLOSS SCRATCH RESISTANT PAINT Enjoying the new car effect for much longer than before 14 A QUARTER CENTURY OF BASF WATERBORNE BASECOATS BASF basecoat technology stands the test of time 16 BREAKING GROUND IN THE SMART CAR INNOVATION The perfect combination: good looking and Smart! 18 GLASURIT PROCESS EDUCATION PROGRAMS Training courses that enhance skills and improve work practices 20 BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH THE GULLWING How BASF meticulously restored a classic car to its former glory 23 GLASURIT NEWS Latest news update

04 | GLASURIT – BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL

BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL Recently, Ziggy from Ziggy’s Hot Rods Australia spoke to Mike and Jim Ring, known to us all as the Ringbrothers – the world leaders in street machines. Their builds are cutting-edge and truly unique. They have introduced a European and industrial blend into their builds which stamps them as theirs alone, enabling them to “redefine American classic cars to better than original”.

"We have always used Glasurit products because we simply believe they are the very best available… There is no other product that gives us the results we demand." RINGBROTHERS

Photography: kindly provided by RINGBROTHERS

GLASURIT – BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL | 05

Ziggy: Where is your shop located? Ringbrothers: Spring Green, Wisconsin. This is a small township. How did you get started in the custom car field? We probably got started before we had our drivers’ licences! We started tearing cars apart; if it wasn’t a car then it was the neighbour’s lawn mower and so on. When we first started we would often end up with a bucket full of bolts left over – it was a bit of a mess! We figured there had to be a spot for every bolt. So how did this progress into your business? We started doing stuff ourselves. Our Dad bought us a car, which we shared. It had so many changes of wheels and colour, depending on who was driving it. We would change the colours over the weekend. In those days we used bright colours like reds, yellows and the like, not the earthy tones that are used now. In those days we wanted to be noticed.

So how long has the business been going now? We started this business, restoring cars and doing cars up, in 1990. We both left very good jobs to open the shop and to follow our dreams. How did your most recent build, ‘The Dragon’ come about? The owner from Arizona is a guy called Alex Stoner. His partner contacted us to finish a car they had being building at a shop in Arizona: a 1965 Mustang. We agreed to look at the job, so they shipped it to us, saying that they just wanted us to finish it. Well when it showed up it was such a mess that we did not want to put our name to any work on the car. So we pushed it back in the trailer and sent it back to Arizona. When he got it back he called and said, “Now what do I do?” We said, “You need to start over.” We had a 1970 Fastback Mustang that was sitting here. We said he could build that car, and that’s how it all began.

06 | GLASURIT – BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL

Can you outline some of the modification work done to that car? Sure, there is a huge amount of work. For example, the chassis was all tied together. There are twin floor pans in that car, an upper and a lower floor pan so all these untidy bits of the undercarriage can be hidden in between. It was easier to build two floor pans than it is to tidy everything there, but you know that don’t you Ziggy! The back leading edge of the door was changed to lean forward and give the illusion of speed and motion. We added about two inches to the door to achieve this. The entire front of the car, the bootlid, belly pans, wheel wells, were then re-made all in carbon fibre. That means it was made basically three times by the time you make the original, then an extravagant mould then the final piece – it’s very time consuming. We cut the drip rails off, which is a lot of work on a ’70. We opened up the wheel arches on the rear and moved the front arches forward. The roof on the ‘70 looks like the roof is falling away so we added a section, like a diffuser, in the roof, which has a third brake light built into it – this breaks the roof line up. We made the whole rear end valance panels and machined up and made the whole rear end of the car in eight pieces. There are lots more modifications. Too many to list really, you lose track. Please take us through the paint process. Firstly we strip the car. Then, after it’s in bare metal, we sand or media blast the job. Then we epoxy prime all the bare metal areas with 2 pack 801-703 epoxy primer. After we have done all our modifications we re-media blast over all our welds and re-epoxy prime. The whole area will be keyed in preparation for spray polyester.

Then we block this down, and we apply five coats of spray polyester, all the way through to 320 and re-epoxy prime it. We sand that with 320, then, depending on the colour, we will finish with P600 (or maybe P800 if it was a bright silver). When we paint using 55 LINE we jam it out in colour first, that is colouring all the edges. All the parts are separate and then they assemble the car and we put two more coats of 55 LINE base over the whole car. Everything is as it will be on the car, loosely fitted but in place. That way we get even coverage. Then we disassemble the car, very carefully, and “Clear” it using HS 923-255 Clear. We put six coats of Clear being very careful not to overload it. We then start with P600 and block the Clear just like we would the primer. We actually block it with an alloy mixing stick. Then we foam pad it in 600, then block further with 800 and foam pad it, block with 1000 and foam pad it. Then foam pad 1500 then 2000 then lastly foam pad 3000; then we will buff it out from there. We use Mothers Professional range to buff it out: great products. We have always used Glasurit products because we simply believe they are the very best available. We have, over time, been offered basically every refinish product available, and there is no other product that gives us the results we demand. What awards has the car won? It’s currently in the running for Muscle Machine of the Year. It was in the top five for Street Machine of the Year and we won the Mothers Shine Award last year in November at SEMA. It also won the Ford Design award at SEMA. Previously we have won back to back Street Machine of the Year awards and Shine awards with other builds.

Who has inspired you throughout the direction of your car building? You Ziggy…Seriously…Well…I think we just grew up loving cars! I think the industry in general, everyone from you to Troy, to Bobby Alloway, etc. We sure appreciate what everybody else does. Our love of cars led us here – it brought us to meet all these great people. So, “it’s all about the passion and pursuing excellence regardless”…? Yes exactly. And you manufacture custom built components as well? Correct. We started with a simple hood hinge and door latches, as the factory items made it impossible to maintain a good gap. The factory items were not up to the standard of where we had taken the car to. We are car builders first. We have been working on a new door hinge for four years now, it’s a lot more complicated than people realise. What are you currently working on? Currently trying to finish off two cars: a 1966 Mustang and a Second Generation Camaro. The Mustang is called “The Producer” and the Camaro is called “Diversion”. Hopefully you will see them both at SEMA this year when you come over. How many people do you employ? Counting the girls, nine. Everybody has their own skills, they are very talented. We also do collision work to keep them all employed for when we get to do the fun cars. It’s a great team, there are no egos allowed here! Visit www.ringbrothers.com

GLASURIT – 90 LINE. NZ LEADS THE WAY IN 90 LINE CONVERSIONS | 07

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NZ LEADS THE WAY IN 90 LINE CONVERSIONS. Phil Roff, Business Manager ART, BASF New Zealand, has been immersed in the world of high quality refinishing and collision repair since 1985. He has seen the development of waterborne technology and has partnered with many of New Zealand’s OEMs and Bodyshops as they have grown their businesses. “We are leading the New Zealand market in acceptance of waterborne technology, especially in standalone shops where solvent systems have been replaced with Glasurit 90 LINE and all the benefits that come with that,” said Phil Roff, from his Auckland office. “And we are seeing conversions to 90 LINE all the time. We’re proud to say that close to 50 per cent of our clients have now made the change to 90 LINE, or are in the process of converting.” Amid all this success, it’s important to remember the challenges being faced within the New Zealand market at the moment. Global insecurity and the credit issues of the last few years have combined with natural disasters like the Christchurch earthquake in February 2011 to literally shake the foundation of New Zealand’s economy.

“It’s a tough time, certainly, with no new businesses emerging and some shops are being faced with closing down. Those who are in business are generally reticent to change things. It’s quite understandable,” Phil said. “So it’s great to have so many Bodyshops endorsing 90 LINE, and the many benefits of waterborne technology, because it represents such a positive step in the life of a business.”

“I make sure they have plenty of time to fully think through the changes that will make the transition painless. There is usually a ‘honeymoon period’ straight after the change to 90 LINE which is followed by a strong dose of reality,” he laughed. “I prepare them for that. They might feel like going back to solvents simply because that is what they know but I urge them to stick it out. They soon start seeing that everything is better and it becomes a habit.”

“Importantly there is no increase in cost with 90 LINE and it improves efficiency in several important ways,” said Phil. “And there are longlasting benefits that are impossible to measure, like a cleaner, healthier workplace and being environmentally-friendly.

“Importantly there is no increase in cost with 90 LINE and it improves efficiency in several important ways.”

“The Bodyshop Emissions Program fits beautifully into that because it repositions a Bodyshop and can open up new potential customers, like hospital boards and government bodies who really respond to that environmental commitment. “Customers are happier too, often without really knowing why. Colour matching is accurate and simple and the quality of the finish will be much closer to the factory finish that the customer originally fell in love with. The key to a successful conversion, according to Phil, is the right training and preparation leading up to the conversion, with someone on hand to make sure the Bodyshop is fully aware of what to expect.

Training is an essential part of the transition. “We identify a key person within the business to come to our Training Centre and we see them turn into a champion for 90 LINE. They go back into their environment with new skills and a fire in their belly about seeing the transition through to the end,” he said. “People make the change and then say, ‘I wish I’d done it years ago. I don’t know what I was worried about.’ I hear that all the time.” For more information please visit www.glasurit.com.au

08 | GLASURIT – BODYSHOP EMISSIONS PROGRAM

MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH THE GLASURIT BODYSHOP EMISSIONS PROGRAM The launch of the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program has been positively received by the industry, with Bodyshops all over Australia and New Zealand seeing the potential in involving themselves in the program. Here we talk to three Bodyshops who have joined the program over the last few months and hear how it has made a difference not only to the environment, but also to their business. GREEN FROM THE GROUND UP Platinum Collision Repair Centre, operating in Osborne Park and Wangara, in Perth’s metropolitan area, recently opened its third centre, located in Midvale. The company is thrilled with the way the Midvale shop’s totally ‘green’ design has been received. “A year ago, we decided to develop our third Bodyshop as a completely environmentally-friendly operation,” said Rob Blundell, of Platinum Collision Repairs. “As well as being part of the Glasurit

Bodyshop Emissions Program, and AARN which of course is a major focus for the business, we wanted to comply in all aspects of the way we ran.” That means key processes like the washing of cars and equipment, the lighting and use of power, the disposal of materials, recycling gas baking ovens, dust extraction systems and the way paper is used in the office have all been designed to be environmentally sustainable. “Even the floor coating material in the workshop is completely ‘green’ in the way it is produced, installed and maintained. It’s non-porous so maintaining it is easy using environmentally-friendly products. It comes with a 10 year guarantee so recoating the floor every year is a thing of the past,” said Rob. “We have a total commitment to ‘green’ practices,” he said. “For us, it’s not a gimmick or an added extra, but is integral to the way we want to do business into the future. It’s about being professional and about promoting a completely new set of standards in this industry.” “WA is probably a little slower to embrace the environmental message but the reality is that times have changed and we are excited about leading others from the front,” according to Rob. “The employment market in Perth is competitive – many good people are lured into mining and we need to be able to compete. By offering a work environment that is healthy and clean, with values of safety and sustainability, we have an even better chance of attracting the best.” Helping customers to be aware of the steps Platinum has taken, each vehicle worked on at the Midvale Centre is returned to the owner with a tree-shaped leaflet hanging from the rear-

view mirror, spelling out the environmentallyresponsible way their car has been cared for. “I think for a lot of businesses, going ‘green’ is seen as being too difficult but, actually, we found that information was easy to obtain and plenty of industry bodies were there to help us through. The AARN Green 'A' and the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program demonstrate that we are in good company and our ongoing commitment is not going to go unnoticed.

“Everything is so much more advanced with Glasurit: the product itself, the colour-matching system, the training centre and the people we deal with there.” “For Platinum Collision, being part of an ongoing program like the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program stops us from just congratulating ourselves on what we’ve done,” Rob said. “We are committed for the long-term, which is what is needed to make a difference to the environment and to the culture of our industry. Collision repairs used to be seen as a smelly, dirty, dangerous and unprofessional. Those days have gone.” There are plans to convert the other two Platinum shops to ‘green’ processes within the next two years and the possibility of at least one other new location in the pipeline. Rob said, “People walk into the Midvale centre and say, ‘Is this really a smash repairs place? It’s beautiful!’ They can see that we are doing things very differently to most of the other Bodyshops out there.”

GLASURIT – BODYSHOP EMISSIONS PROGRAM | 09

also owns a service station in town as well, now run by Jason’s other two brothers. It’s a true family business with a solid reputation to maintain. The transition to water based paint was easy, according to Jason, thanks largely to the assistance of Tony Wiggins, Glasurit’s Independent Distribution Business Manager. “We were thinking about changing and he provided not just information but resources to manage the transition. He has been right there with us throughout the process and really worked with us to help us to define our vision for the business,” said Jason.

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR Hickeys Urunga Smash Repairs, one of the first shops to sign up with the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program and finalist in the recent MTA awards, is raring to go with the new Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program. “We are located in the second most ‘green’ shire in NSW,” said Jason, who runs, with his brother Wayne, the north-coast business their father started in 1974. “We were exploring green initiatives and I saw details of the Glasurit Emissions Program on the website. It was the right fit for us.” Moving to new premises in April 2010 marked a new phase in the life of the business, starting with completely green processes and the allimportant change to Glasurit 90 LINE water based from another solvent based product. “We changed our uniforms and our corporate identity to reflect the new focus on neutralising carbon and using environmentally sustainable practices,” said Jason. “It has been really well received. Everyone is glad to see that we’re trying to do the right thing by our customers, our staff and the environment. “We get lots of questions about the scheme which we are happy to answer. The Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program is easy to explain too. “We are getting through about 30% more business since the move. The water based product has increased our efficiency because it is quicker and involves a lot less colour matching,” he said. “And the air is cleaner without the smell and fumes of the solvent paint. Simpler and cleaner.” Jason started in the business when he was 17 (as did Wayne, who is three years older). There are five staff members at the shop. The Hickey family

“Everything is so much more advanced with Glasurit: the product itself, the colour-matching system, the training centre and the people we deal with there,” he said. “I can’t see any reason why we would ever change from waterborne processes, or why we would change from Glasurit.” EMBRACING NEW INITIATIVES Prestige Bodyshop, Peter Wilkinson and Co, located in the centre of Perth, is already wellknown as a market leader and early adopter of Glasurit technology. So their implementation of the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program should come as no surprise.

“They just want their car to look the way it did before the accident. With 90 LINE we can meet that expectation, knowing that their prestige European car left the factory with a flawless waterborne finish."

“We are a factory-approved repairer for BMW, Mercedes and Lexus, companies which have already demonstrated their commitment to the environment in their processes and policies around the world,” commented Wilkinson.

“Emulating those values is as important to us as providing a safe working environment for our team and producing a manufacturer finish for our customers.” Peter Wilkinson and Co was one of the first to embrace Glasurit’s waterborne 90 LINE technology, seeking to further distinguish themselves in the market. It has also been integral to the company’s mission to give customers exactly what they expect when they bring their car to be repaired. “People don’t usually understand the processes or technology behind what we do,” Michael said. “It is the same with environmental awareness. Most customers don’t want to know the precise details of the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program but are impressed that we are committed to minimising our impact on the environment. “It’s human nature,” he said. “People don’t really mind change, but they don’t like to have change forced on them. Our staff and customers are happy knowing that we have made a conscious decision to do our best for the environment, for our employees and for the people we serve. We have committed to this decision and it’s proven to be another very positive step in the growth of our business.”

“The motor repair industry has always been seen as notoriously bad for the environment,” said Michael Wilkinson, of Peter Wilkinson and Co. “For too long it was about deadly fumes and a public image of ‘pouring paint down the drain’. “Fortunately there has been a growing awareness of the need to use environmentally sustainable processes, and to run clean and healthy shops,” he said. “It really is the only professional option.” According to Michael, the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program and the MTA’s Green Stamp program are examples of the industry’s recognition of the need to do something positive for the environment.

If you would like more information about the Glasurit Bodyshop Emissions Program, visit the Glasurit website www.glasurit.com.au or contact your local Distributor.

10 | GLASURIT – XCOLORS

PRACTICALLY NO OTHER FACTOR determines the effect of a car the way its colour does. Colours are what turn vehicles into emotional products. As a result, carmakers are increasingly using distinctive and striking colours to create a buzz around their new model launches. BASF Coatings recognised this early on and is now offering carmakers a unique colour concept

that integrates colour trends and innovative paint development – true to its expectation to always be number one when it comes to colour. Launched under the name XColors – designed by BASF, its results are truly breath-taking. XColors combine modern design and innovative technology. “Our new XColors range allows our automotive customers to combine state-of-the-art design and the highest level

Colour innovation combines modern design and innovative technology.

AUDI E-TRON SPYDER SHINES WITH

COLORS

of application reliability in OEM application,” said Stephan Schwarte, head of Colour Design at BASF Coatings. XColors offer a balance between design and feasibility. Special ingredients and innovative formulas in paint technology are responsible for these extraordinary colour effects including the use of specially developed pigments. BASF is not only breaking new technological ground with this product family, but its designers have also recognised that with XColors, carmakers can now use colour as a distinguishing feature even more effectively. An exciting addition to the XColor range is the new XFine colours. These colours offer strong metallic effects that create an elegant silver. Thanks to the innovative formula, very fine aluminium particles are arranged flat next to each other and produce a mirror like effect on the car body. “This effect yields extremely powerful contrasts. The colour appears particularly bright on the edges of

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the car body, while it has a very dark effect when viewed from the side,” explained Mark Gutjahr, Colour Designer at BASF Coatings. “We refer to this as a very bright highlight and a dark flip effect. XFine uses this flip effect to highlight the car body and all its contours particularly strongly.” Feedback from some of the major car shows have indicated that the XFine range of colours is being extremely well received by carmakers. Audi recently presented their latest model e-tron Spyder in the "Seductive Silver" XFine colour highlighting the showcar's sporty lines and features. But this is just the beginning – further ideas for innovative colours that turn cars into eye-catchers at car shows and on the roads are already in place. In addition to the XFine colours, more colours will join the XColors product family – much to the delight of carmakers and drivers.

Colour sample (left) shows Glasurit XColors 'Seductive Silver' XFine colour.

12 | GLASURIT – BASF iGLOSS

DAIMLER INTRODUCES BASF iGLOSS® SCRATCH-RESISTANT PAINT Daimler is the first car manufacturer to introduce BASF’s new iGloss® clearcoat for OEM coatings. At its plant in Bremen, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, SLK and SL models have all been coated with the extremely scratch-resistant paint. The clearcoat is the top layer of the automotive finish and provides gloss for the body, as well as protection from stresses such as sunlight or chemicals. The iGloss technology offers all of these features and also provides extremely high levels of scratch resistance. Dr Matthijs Groenewolt, iGloss developer, explains, “It offers better protection against micro scratches, which can come about at places like the car wash, for example. This means car owners can now enjoy that new car effect for much longer than before.” iGloss combines the advantages of inorganic 'hard' materials with those of organic 'soft' materials. The hybrid material delivers improved scratch resistance without increasing the brittleness of the finish.

One of the main advantages of this tough new finish is that there are no significant changes to the application process needed.

"Car owners can now enjoy that new car effect for much longer than before." Thomas Fritzsche, global BASF Account Manager for Daimler, discusses the significance of this new innovation: “For BASF, improving products and processes has always been a top priority. That’s why we invest a great deal of money into innovation. The introduction of iGloss at Mercedes-Benz is an excellent example of how the willingness to develop innovations has ultimately had a positive impact on the end product.”

Over the past 30 years, nearly six million Mercedes-Benz passenger cars have been produced at its Bremen plant. Annual production for 2010 numbered over 257,000 cars. Currently, eight models are produced at the plant: the C-Class Sedan, T-Model and Coupe, E-Class Coupe and convertible, GLK, as well as the two roadsters SLK and SL. The BASF/ Daimler partnership is an excellent example of the collaborative process with two innovative companies wanting to deliver the best product possible to the market. Please note – For the Refinish Industry, Glasurit 923-447 VOC Scratch Resistant Clear and Glasurit 929-33 or 929-34 VOC Hardener are the OEM approved products for repairs.

GLASURIT – GLASURIT SUMMER OF CRICKET | 13

GLASURIT SUMMER OF CRICKET TIPPING COMPETITION

THE ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY once described cricket as organised bludging. Obviously he’d never seen an exciting one day game which went down to the wire, a pulsating 20/20 match or the reinvigorated Aussie team on the all out attack. It’s going to be a huge summer of cricket with the Aussies coming off a good series win in Sri Lanka. There are lots of new faces wearing the Australian colours this year so it’s guaranteed to be a pretty exciting couple of months. You can get involved this season with the Glasurit Cricket tipping competition and pump up the excitement. The comp covers the tests, one dayers and the KFC t20 matches. It’s easy to enter and it’s free. There are great prizes to be won including weekly Glasurit merchandise prize packs.

The major prizes include: 1st prize iPad 2 3G, 64GB 2nd prize iPod touch 32GB 3rd prize iPod nano 8GB There’s an online scoreboard so you can see who’s winning the tipping and devise your strategies to knock them off. You can also see how your mates are going and no doubt point out your superior cricketing knowledge and tipping expertise on a regular basis. Entering is easy. All you have to do is go to www.glasuritcricket.com.au and register. The prizes are awarded on tipping skills so you’d better get stuck into studying the form and

getting a handle on the fresh faces that’ll be coming into the various sides. The person with the highest number of correct tips wins. You can’t get more straightforward than that. Because it’s online it’s easy to update your tips from home or when you have a spare moment at work. We’re also planning on having Glasurit’s Footy tipping competition during the 2012 AFL and NRL season. Whether you want to stick with your team or play the percentages is up to you. There’ll be more great prizes on offer so it will be pretty tempting to take all the emotion out of it and go for the win. Stay tuned for more information. Good luck! Register at www.glasuritcricket.com.au

14 | GLASURIT – BASF WATERBORNE BASECOATS

A QUARTER CENTURY OF BASF WATERBORNE BASECOATS BASF: pioneer and leader in the area of waterborne basecoats. Twenty-five years ago in Würzburg, Germany, BASF became the first paint manufacturer to launch the production of waterborne basecoats. In a matter of months, the first cars were coated with the environmentally friendly technology on the paint line at the Opel plant in Bochum.

To mark the occasion, BASF has created an anniversary colour that demonstrates what is possible a quarter of a century after waterborne basecoats were introduced. “We are proud to be a pioneer and technology leader in the area of waterborne basecoats,” declared Dr. Alexander Haunschild, BASF Coatings’ head of Automotive OEM Coatings Solutions Europe. “For this area, we combine our competence and years of experience with environmentally friendly technologies, along with colour and design.”

Waterborne technology is undoubtedly the future of automotive refinish paints as we look towards reducing emissions into the earth’s atmosphere. In 2011 alone, some 35 million vehicles worldwide will be produced with waterborne basecoats, and the trend is rising. While in 1997 the rate of use of waterborne paint systems was only 20 percent throughout the world, today this rate has risen to over 50 percent. This is expected to increase to approximately 65 percent by 2015. BASF is constantly working both on

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the development of the technology as well as on waterborne colour innovations. Many people are surprised to know that the product that BASF developed over 25 years ago was to such high standards that in the 25 years since, there have been little to no amendments to the original formula – an incredible technological achievement. Only in the past five years have similar competitor products appeared in the market and they still do not match 90 LINE's vast list of features and benefits. So, for Australian Bodyshops, whose repair standards are rated as one of the highest in the world, it’s no wonder 90 LINE continues to dominate in eco-friendly profitability.

"Waterborne technology is undoubtedly the future of automotive refinish paints as we look towards reducing emissions into the earth’s atmosphere." Glasurit’s 90 LINE waterborne system has been the leading coating of choice amongst a number of OEMs and Bodyshops worldwide for its highly concentrated, quick and efficient coverage – and for its advanced formula aligned to the most stringent VOC standards. It has been designed to be a high performing all round product. The coating has excellent hiding power, is environmentally compatible, fast drying and saves you in time and materials. 90 LINE is applied the same way as conventional solvent products, making it easy to use. Add to this the fact that waterborne technology is not only environmentally more responsible, but also much safer for your employees – so staying with old solvent technology really doesn’t make good financial sense anymore. Ian Johnson from Glasurit said, “There are many myths in the marketplace surrounding the use of waterborne and in particular 90 LINE. Bodyshops that have already made the transition to 90 LINE have started to reap the rewards associated with both a userfriendly and environmentally-friendly product. The use of 90 LINE closely replicates the majority of new vehicles on the road which helps meet the added demands of both work providers and vehicle owners. The increase of new vehicles on the road will see an automatic increase of the need to replicate a waterborne OEM finish. Those time consuming tasks that bodyshop painters now have to undertake such

as sealing of solvent sensitive paint edges and difficult replication of metallic appearance can simply be avoided by using a like for like product. Product development is now only being invested in waterborne finishes, so refinishing is only going to get more difficult if repairs continue down the road of solvent basecoats. Generally the one thing that holds a Bodyshop back from making the transition is mind set. Once the myths and perceptions are addressed I often hear the comment, ‘we should have done this a long time ago’. So I would encourage all Bodyshops and their painters to speak to the Glasurit field technicians and sales staff to find out how they can benefit from using 90 LINE." Anniversary colour created BASF Coatings’ designers in Europe, Mark Gutjahr and Corinna Sy, have developed a new colour to mark this anniversary: an XFine® in metallic gold. XFine colours are BASF’s waterborne colour innovation. Thanks to an innovative formula, very fine aluminium particles are arranged flat and thus have a kind of mirror effect on the body. “This effect yields powerful contrasts and uniquely highlights the contours of the car body,” Gutjahr explained. “These properties lend the anniversary colour its luxurious effect. In addition, gold has corresponded to our trend forecast and will be used for cars more frequently in the future.”

Waterborne basecoats reduce environmental impact The use of BASF Coatings’ waterborne basecoats in the 25 years of their production history has meant savings of over 150,000 tonnes of solvents in Germany alone. In waterborne basecoats, the majority of the organic solvents contained in solvent borne paint are replaced by water. The considerably lower impact on the environment is a huge advantage of this technology. In 2009, BASF invested 21 million Euros to expand the capacity at its Würzburg site in order to respond to the increasing significance of waterborne basecoats. BASF introduced a further milestone in its ecological innovations with Integrated Process II. This application process is the standard of the future and will integrate the functions that are currently performed by the primer surfacer (such as protection against stone chipping) into the basecoat, which provides the colour. This innovation can make the entire primer surfacer application section superfluous when automotive bodies are coated, with a corresponding shortening of the paint line. This boosts capacity and reduces production costs for the customers. It also significantly reduces solvents and CO2 emissions as well as energy use. “Just like the waterborne basecoats, the Integrated Process II will establish itself as the application standard of the future,” Haunschild said.

16 | GLASURIT – SMART CAR

BOTH DAIMLER AND BASF are engaged in wide-ranging research and development work aimed at getting electric cars on the road and ensuring that electric mobility becomes part of everyday life as soon as possible.

BREAKING GROUND IN THE SMART CAR INNOVATION

The two companies have now combined their technological competencies for the first time, developing a forward-looking vehicle concept that offers decisive solutions to the challenges of the future. The new vehicle brings design, lifestyle and technology together to form a new functional whole. Smart has long been a pioneer in the field of urban car technology, and with their new relationship with BASF they have been able to create a futuristic design with technologies relating to energy efficiency, lightweight design and temperature management. Many of the innovations are based on nano technology, the key to the development of sustainable solutions. The design of the Smart Forvision concept has made huge inroads into increasing the range of the car which has always been a huge point of contention for batteryelectric cars. Lighter electric cars need less energy to power them and in that way achieve longer ranges. With the new lightweight construction, it is now possible to increase the cars' range by up to 20 percent. "Cars of the future need materials and technologies which reduce energy consumption whilst also increasing the range and level

Daimler and BASF join forces to develop smarter technologies.

of comfort. Our innovations make a decisive contribution to this," says Dr. Christian Fischer, Head of BASF Polymer Research. "We are proud to have developed a holistic concept for sustainable urban mobility in cooperation with Smart. Together we are presenting a pioneering vehicle which is without parallel." Lightweight design: different, better, stylish The Smart Forvision concept car is a world first in the area of addressing weight reduction with its unique design. BASF helped design the first all-plastic wheel suitable for highvolume production. They developed the wheel from a new high-performance material which results in considerable weight saving of up to three kilograms per wheel. The newly developed plastic has long reinforcing fibres which improve its mechanical properties. The result: excellent thermal and chemical stability, dynamic strength, toughness and good continuous operating characteristics. Further components such as carbonfibre-reinforced epoxy resin doors enable weight savings of more than 50 percent. These resin systems from BASF are also

suitable for producing larger volumes.

Heating: close to the body and efficient The multifunctional, comfortable and lightweight seats in the Smart Forvision are made from an innovative new seat foam which offers a unique combination of efficient temperature management and an energysaving weight-saving design whilst also being comfortable. The material from BASF is around 10 to 20 percent lighter than other materials and enables different degrees of hardness to be achieved in different areas of the upholstery – resulting in clear ergonomic advantages. Temperature management: heat stays outside Large amounts of energy are needed for heating and air conditioning in cars, so temperature management was another critical area for the Smart and BASF researchers to focus on. BASF worked to develop a heat shield which had not previously been used in automotive applications. The shield consists of a new type of infraredreflective film which is integrated between panes of safety glass on the windscreens and side windows to protect the car interior from heating up. This ensures that infrared rays are effectively reflected. It is highly transparent, so it can also be applied to tinted windows and guarantees an unprecedented level of reflection of sunlight and heat. And unlike other metallized films, the new film reflects only infrared rays, so GPD, Bluetooth, toll passes and mobile phones using radio waves can pass through the film without any issues.

GLASURIT – SMART CAR | 17

High performance foams from BASF have also been fitted in the bodypanels to provide for a pleasant climate inside the car. They keep the car cool in summer whilst insulating it against the cold in winter. Thanks to their high efficiency even in a small width, they can be fitted everywhere in the car. Cool coatings – cool interior The infra red-reflective and extremely scratch-resistant BASF coating system not only contributes to overall temperature management, but it also offers a brilliant and high-quality look to support the unique design of the Smart Forvision. The concept car features a special-effect pearl white coating with glass flakes that creates a gleaming, high quality metallic look. BASF says

[

the white special-effect paint, which reflects heat rays, provides for an intelligent temperature management system and contrasts with the copper coloured Liquid Metal basecoat on the safety cell. The pigments in the coating ensure that heat radiation is reflected rather than absorbed. This leads to a temperature reduction of up to 20 degrees Celsius on the paint surface and of up to approximately four degrees in the vehicle interior. Smart and good looking BASF’s patented Liquid Metal paint gives the passenger compartment a futuristic appearance. The waterborne liquid metal special-effect paint was specially developed for automotive OEM coating. The copper-colored Liquid Metal paint uses aluminium flakes to produce a reflective surface that creates a transition from light to

dark, depending on the viewing angle, and to strongly accentuate the curved surfaces of a car body. Known as the flip effect, this is influenced by the size, distribution and shape of the aluminium particles. Both the panels and the cell of the Smart Forvision are also painted with the extremely scratch-resistant iGloss® hybrid clearcoat. In addition, a special technology was used: a clearcoat system for the transparent organic solar cells in the roof of the Forvision. The new car created a great deal of interest at the Motor Show and marks the beginning of what is likely to be a strong future of collaborative innovation between Smart and BASF in the area of high performance, good looking electric cars.

"Cars of the future need materials and technologies which reduce energy consumption whilst also increasing the range and level of comfort. Our innovations make a decisive contribution to this," says Dr. Christian Fischer, Head of BASF Polymer Research.

]

18 | GLASURIT – PROCESS EDUCATION PROGRAMS

GLASURIT PROCESS EDUCATION PROGRAMS ARE REGARDED WORLDWIDE AS THE BEST IN THE INDUSTRY Glasurit’s tailor-made training programs educating Bodyshop paint staff on process improvements are regarded worldwide as the best in the business. Peter Jones, National Head Trainer from Glasurit, gives us an insight into the training courses that are available to meet the needs and skill levels of all paint shop staff, from trainees, trade assistants to an experienced painter. What is the aim of Glasurit’s training courses? The aim of the training courses is to highlight the methods for enhancing and improving their working practices and to inform them about opportunities to promote best working practices that can benefit the bodyshop by moving forwards with the new technology. Training involves the transfer of knowledge, skills and attitudes to enable individuals to perform their job roles efficiently and effectively, also expanding those individuals' capabilities. Where are the training courses held? The majority of the training courses are held at Wetherill Park, Sydney at the Refinishing Competency Centre (RCC). We also utilise a facility in WA so the same training seminars are conducted parallel so as all participants receive the same information, training programs and benefits of the modular based programs. We also have a RCC in New Zealand where training can be carried out by a qualified trainer. All specialised courses are held in Sydney i.e. Spot Repair, OEM Training which are conducted by myself. Who runs these training courses? All seminars are carried out by highly-trained staff. The majority of the seminars held in Sydney are

GLASURIT – PROCESS EDUCATION PROGRAMS | 19

conducted by me or if necessary another highly skilled trainer will fill in for me if I am unavailable. All trainers must be accredited in training and assessment. The same principles apply to WA, the trainer must attend an accredited training course as mentioned above then undergo an intensive training program in Sydney to understand the methods that must be adopted to ensure a one voice policy is adhered to. I understand Glasurit is now offering two popular courses, the first being the Ratio Aqua course. What training does this course provide for a participant? Delegates are educated so that they understand the function of the products and learn about the working steps they must perform to apply 90 LINE in a VOC-compliant, efficient (time- and materialsaving) process. Ratio Aqua (90 LINE) covers all aspects of waterborne basecoat: mixing, application, blending and drying of basecoat as well as our undercoat strategies.

"Training involves the transfer of knowledge, skills and attitudes to enable individuals to perform their job roles efficiently & effectively, also expanding those individuals' capabilities." Who is this course best suited to? This course is for delegates who want a full understanding of waterborne basecoat systems and technologies. This course is best suited to experienced painters with the ability to introduce new paint shop processes or personnel who are changing to waterborne technology. What are the benefits for participants who are attending this course? Once a delegate has attended a Ratio Aqua course he or she now has the knowledge to be able to perform a quality repair process with the latest technologies in waterborne products. This also allows the participant to explore other avenues which would be impossible to achieve during normal working hours. Also any rumours or fears that the participant may have or experienced in the past with waterborne paints can now be addressed so the individual has no concerns about the transition to waterborne technology. Another popular course Glasurit is offering is the Process Education modular training programs.

How are these tailor-made programs designed to benefit individuals who are attending? We offer tailor-made seminars on three different levels: Introduction, Advanced and Expert seminars; a modular structure which enables bodyshop management to send their staff to seminars that also match the participants' present skill level.

"Participants are given an extensive workbook that they can use again and again in their everyday work too – so the knowledge they have acquired is always at their fingertips." With our training programs we lay emphasis on three different aspects: firstly we guarantee maximum attention to the user and proximity to practical requirements. Secondly, attention is focused on work processes, the aim being to familiarise participants with ways of optimising workflows. These workflows range from colour matching and identification, sanding, bodyfilling, priming to paint application and polishing. Thirdly, we give training on how to use materials and time efficiently. Consequently, our concept is designed to provide for process training and can be broken down into two focal areas of study: the subjects of process (PE) and colour (CE). What do the participants gain from this style of training? The great factor about modular based training is it allows flexibility to the training programs: meaning that this permits the training to be based on the participants' expectations and requirements. This also allows the latest innovative ideas and technologies to be incorporated without changing the whole training program, just adapt that module to suit. Overall, what is the key success for business operators whose staff has attended one of Glasurit’s training courses? If you want to be a successful operator, you need first-class products, modern technology as well as a partner to give you overall support by putting know-how across in a professional manner. Our training programs are an essential component of this support strategy.

To book a course go to www.glasurit.com.au/training

Glasurit Training Courses Available: 29/11/2011 Colour Education 1 06/12/2011 RATIO AQUA

20 | GLASURIT – BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH GULLWING

BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH THE GULLWING A prestigious sports car requires a brilliant, high-quality exterior. And that is exactly what BASF paints deliver – for both 21st century and classic cars. Those people lucky enough to be on site at the BASF Coatings plant in Münster, Germany several months ago witnessed a historic moment, when two iconic cars from the past two centuries were displayed on site. These amazing feats of engineering: two Mercedes-Benz, one from the 1950s, the other from 2010, share a special feature distinguishing them from the competition – doors that swing upwards instead of opening to the side. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL was the world’s first

car featuring 'wing doors' in line production. In the US, where most of the 1,400 manufactured 300SL’s were sold, the car soon earned the name of 'Gullwing', and it still looks just as elegant today as when it was launched over half a century ago. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, introduced last year, inherited these wings from its 'godfather', the original Gullwing. With this move, the carmaker has picked up on the legacy of the 300SL, a model whose popularity has never been rivalled since. Today it is an icon of design, but the wing-door concept was originally an invention born out of necessity. The 300SL from 1952 was originally designed to be a sports car, having a tubeshaped body that was not stable enough to allow normal door apertures. The top-opening concept was successfully designed as an alternative and the wing door was born. Mercedes-Benz manufactured the Gullwing between August 1954 and May 1957 in line production. At that time it was the fastest car on the road.

Following a global survey conducted in 1999, automotive experts confirmed its continuing cult status by declaring the 300SL 'Sports Car of the Century'. Among the most coveted classic cars, Gullwing owners have included such celebrities as Zsa Zsa Gabor and Sophia Loren. BASF acquired the 1957 model 300SL Gullwing over ten years ago and has meticulously restored it to its former glory using Glasurit products. Jürgen Book, head of Automotive Refinish Customer Service at BASF Coatings, knew exactly what was needed for the 300SL:

GLASURIT – BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH GULLWING | 21

“We used 90 LINE waterborne basecoats from Glasurit to painstakingly restore the old coupé. These are high-quality refinish products which are also used in the production of luxury cars.” A BASF team utilized the world’s largest colour database, created by Glasurit, to determine the original colour. “Our database contains information on roughly 600,000 mixing formulas, 60,000 of which are colours more than twenty years old. That allows us to decipher almost any colour formula ever used in automotive history,” says Book.

The restoration was filmed for the hit US TV series 'Dream Car Garage' which specializes in the restoration of classic cars. Peter Klutt, host of Dream Car Garage is a fan of the Glasurit 90 LINE paint that was used on the restoration. “It is undoubtedly the best waterborne system on the market today. The fact that it is used in the original production of ultra-luxury cars such as the Maybach, the Rolls Royce and the Bentley testifies to the quality of the system and the confidence that these manufacturers have in Glasurit paint.” The restored 300SL won an 'Award of Excellence' on its first outing at the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance in Rochester, Michigan.

certain the SLS AMG will be just as successful as the 300SL, and is proud of his involvement with both of these prestigious sports cars. “These two cars from two different centuries are specimens of unique design and cutting-edge automotive technology. And at the same time, they are examples of more sustainable, aesthetic driving through chemistry.”

The Glasurit team have also contributed significantly to the development of the new SLS AMG with its ultra-modern silver-metallic finish. “Amongst other things, we supplied the e-coat, primer and clearcoat, plus a lot of the basecoat” says Thomas Fritzsche, BASF’s Global Account Manager for Daimler. Fritzche is absolutely

TODAY IT IS AN ICON OF DESIGN, BUT THE WING-DOOR CONCEPT WAS ORIGINALLY AN INVENTION BORN OUT OF NECESSITY.

GLASURIT 522-10 PLASTIC ADDITIVE

SAVES A COMPLETE PROCESS STEP! Until now, bodyshops had to use adhesion primers and special products for coating plastic substrates. With Glasurit 522-10 Plastic Additive, this is part of history. The additive makes sure that the filler adheres to the plastic substrate. By replacing the reducer with the plastic additive you can save a complete process step â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which in turn will save 25 percent of your working time.

ProFit with Glasurit.

GLASURIT – NEWS | 23

PASSION FOR TWO-WHEELERS Under the theme of “passion for twowheelers”, BASF debuts at Asia’s largest motorcycle trade exhibition. BASF presented for the first time its extensive portfolio of solutions for the Chinese motorcycle market at the 10th China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition on October 12th 2011 in Chongqing. As the world’s number one chemical supplier to the mobility industry, BASF provides intelligent and sustainable solutions to twowheeler manufacturers and their suppliers who value quality, consistency, safety, cost competitiveness, vehicle performance and environmental protection. In 2010, China’s motorcycle output was more than 23 million units, which accounted for 45 percent of global production. A stable growth rate of two to three percent annually is expected over the next few years. “A striking presence, superior performance, comfort, environmental friendliness, and the ability to ensure safety are features an exceptional two-wheeler should have,” says James Yin, General Manager, Global Motorcycle Catalysts. “At this exhibition, we will demonstrate our innovative products and solutions which help to meet these requirements.” BASF is a pioneer in advanced motorcycle coatings solutions that combine outstanding coatings performance with the latest market trends in terms of colours and effects. A prime example of BASF innovation is BEAMCOATTM, the twin-cure (UV-thermo curing) clear coat for motorcycle fuel tanks that has been recognized for its outstanding scratch-resistance and environmentally-friendly properties. BASF is also the only motorcycle coatings supplier to hold a dedicated motorcycle colour show. Every year, BASF colour designers translate the latest colour trend into concrete proposals to the motorcycle manufacturers. EXCELLENT PARTNERSHIP BASF has again won the GM Supplier Award for the seventh time in nine years. BASF is honoured to be named as the top chemical supplier of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coatings to General Motors. Outstanding performance as a GM global coatings supplier in the areas of quality, service, technology and price were the decisive factors in receiving the award.

“The Supplier of the Year Award winners are part of an elite group, those who have demonstrated a sustained focus and dedication to GM’s priorities and continued success. This is critically important given the complexity of today’s automotive market," emphasized Bob Socia, Vice President and globally in charge of purchasing and the supply chain at GM. General Motors honoured the performance of BASF not only on a global level, but also regionally. In South America, GM praised the work of BASF as regional supplier of the year in the field of automotive OEM coatings 2010. “The conquest of the regional edition of the prize in South America is an acknowledgement of our work, which is our contribution to GM’s success," said Joseph Anthony Minitti who is in charge of automotive OEM coatings in South America. Chemistry is vital as a key technology, and considering there were more than 1.5 billion cars on the roads by 2010, chemistry is absolutely essential for the development of solutions to meet future mobility needs.

And our next feature in GLOSS magazine is…. YOU! We want to hear from our readers, whether you’re a Bodyshop owner, staff member or distributor. We want to hear about any interesting refinish or restoration projects that you’re working on, things that are of concern to your Bodyshop or the industry, changes you’ve implemented that you’d like to share with other readers or just funny stories from your Bodyshop. Write us a letter, drop us an email, send us a photo or just ask us a question if you want. We’re looking forward to featuring some of your contributions in future issues of GLOSS. Contact Trudi at OMG! Creative trudi@omgcreative.com.au or phone 03 9654 0532

This publication is printed at an ISO14001:2004 certified plant with Forest Stewardship Council® Chain of Custody certification.

Issue 5 | Nov 2011

CIMAMOTOR2011: BASF SHOWS

GLOSS MAGAZINE

Cover photograph: MERCEDES

GLASURIT NEWS

I M PR I N T Editor

Ian Wilkinson - Business Director, Coatings Australia & New Zealand BASF Australia Ltd. 231-233, Newton Road, Wetherill Park, NSW 2164, Australia. Email: contact-australia@basf.com Phone: 02 8787 0100 Fax: 02 8787 0133 Glasurit® is a brand of BASF Australia Ltd, a company in the BASF-Group. www.glasurit.com.au www.asiapacific.basf.com Advertising Trudi Raymant – OMG! Creative Level 3, 180 Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia Phone: 03 9654 0532 E: trudi@omgcreative.com.au Editorial Contributing Editor Lucy Sutherland Lucid Communications Pty Ltd Australia & New Zealand. Contact for press enquiries: Phone: 02 9555 9476 E: lucy@lucidcomms.com.au Art Direction, Design & Production OMG! Creative Level 3, 180 Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia. Phone: 03 9654 0532 www.omgcreative.com.au Photography Karl Schwerdtfeger BASF-Group Ringbrothers Daimler Audi Smart Car No responsibility is accepted by BASF for the accuracy of any statement of advice contained in the text or advertisements. All material appearing in GLOSS magazine is copyright.

“ The transition to 90 LINE ran so smoothly that there was minimal disruption to our workflow.” Matt Goodall STEPHEN GOODALL SPECIALIST SPRAY PAINTERS Southport, Queensland, Australia. 90 LINE USER.

Smart Code Scan with your 3G mobile and connect with Glasurit.

NO.1 FOR SERVICE. GLASURIT 90 LINE Glasurit’s 90 LINE system is the NO.1 waterborne paint worldwide. 90 LINE offers outstanding performance properties, including quick and efficient coverage, higher productivity levels as well as environmental benefits. Combine that with an exceptional support package including industry leading training, on-site auditing programs, outstanding field support and first-class distribution all working together to make the change to 90 LINE easier than you think. ProFit with Glasurit.

Glasurit, 231-233 Newton Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 Australia, Tel: 02 8787 0100 Fax: 02 8787 0133 www.glasurit.com.au