Powder curing lines upgraded with catalytic infrared pre-gel ovens
This column is provided to you by members of the Infrared Equipment Division (IRED) of the Industrial Heating Equipment Association (IHEA). The group includes infrared (IR) curing equipment suppliers from throughout North America. We publish the column three times a year to give you the latest information about IR curing techniques and equipment. Contact information is at the end of the column. Most IR manufacturers offer testing for free or for a fee. Any IRED member can assist you in finding solutions to curing problems and best practices for finishing of coatings. This issue’s column was submitted by IRED member Mike Chapman, Vulcan Catalytic Systems, Portsmouth, R.I.
Two leading Canadian manufacturers in their respective fields depend on consistent and quality powder coated products for their businesses to succeed. Their products are very different, yet both used radiant gas burners to gel their powder coating before parts entered their curing ovens. Both companies used this system for more than 15 years, yet both were dissatisfied with the overall results. There had to be a better way.