Rapid prototyping key to realizing masking benefits in powder coating shops
This article discusses how rapid prototyping of two- and three-dimensional (2-D and 3-D) masking devices can be customized to increase quality and productivity while lowering costs on a powder coating line. It describes a new rapid prototyping system for 3-D parts that is ideal for complex jobs. It also explains the benefits of customized 2-D die-cut masks and the prototyping of hooks and hangers.
Applying powder coatings often requires a masking step to prevent coating deposits to specific surfaces. As productivity pressures increase on powder coating shops, so has the importance of custom masking solutions designed to speed masking application and removal, and to eliminate productivity bottlenecks. For example, the 30 minutes spent hand-cutting a tape mask on a part can bring a production line to its knees, while a custom-fabricated masking solution might solve the problem in as little as a 30 seconds.