Waterborne paint is the wave of the future for body shops. As environmental regulations become stricter for collision repairers, many are looking to waterborne paint to help their body shops go green.
But converting to waterborne isn’t as simple as switching out paint cans. Spraybooths, spray guns and gun cleaning equipment often must be updated. Paint prep and application steps must be adjusted, along with cycle time expectations. Converting to waterborne takes patience and commitment on behalf of not only shop owners and managers, but painters. With the help of the following articles and products, your body shop will be well on its way to success.
Converting a Body Shop to Waterborne Paint: What to Expect
After eight
years working with waterborne basecoats, I’ve seen the good, the bad
and the ugly. Here’s a no-frills, firsthand account of my experience.
Helping Paint Techs Cope with Waterborne Conversion
I’ve been
spraying waterborne for three years now, and I can tell you the biggest
key to success is attitude. Take a positive approach and you’ll be
successful.
Talking to Body Shops that Have Made Waterborne Conversion
A check in with
body shops on their progress in transitioning to waterborne paint
reveals no major problems…as long as paint manufacturers’ guidelines
are strictly adhered to.
Preparing a Body Shop for Waterborne Paint Conversion
Waterborne is
better for the environment and has some unique and beneficial
advantages. But it isn’t a switch that should be made on a whim.
Equipment Needed for Waterborne Conversion
Transitioning
to waterborne basecoats will require obtaining new equipment and
retrofitting some existing equipment. Are you prepared?
Choosing the Right Spray Gun
The next
generation of spray guns will be more efficient and productive thanks
to new nozzles, increased transfer efficiency and less air.
VIDEO: A Waterborne Journey with Mike Anderson
Dynamic
industry speaker and shop owner Mike Anderson discusses waterborne’s
effect on profit, production and painters at the 2009 BodyShop Business
Waterborne Conference.
Product Showcase: Drying and Curing Equipment
Find products that will help you reduce your drying and curing time when working with waterborne.
Product Showcase: Spraybooths
Whether you’re in the market for a new spraybooth or accessories, we can help you find the right product.
