The Power of a Seamlessly Integrated Finishing Process.

Not all manufacturing facilities have the space for a massive, automotive-style E-coat system. For these applications, a compact electrophoresis production line is the ideal solution. At TIMS, we design space-efficient systems, such as programmable hoist lines. Instead of a long, continuous conveyor, a hoist system uses an overhead crane to move parts between a series of tanks arranged in a tight footprint. This "smart batch" approach provides all the process control and quality benefits of a larger line but is perfectly suited for lower volume production or facilities where floor space is at a premium. This makes the superior protection of an electrophoresis production line accessible to a wider range of manufacturers.

When choosing an electrophoresis production line, a key decision is between a continuous conveyorized line and a hoist-based (or batch) line. A conveyorized line is ideal for high-volume production of similar parts, offering maximum throughput and efficiency. A hoist line is better suited for lower volumes or a high mix of different parts. It offers greater flexibility, as each carrier can have its own custom process recipe (e.g., different immersion times or voltages). A hoist line is also generally more compact. TIMS has extensive experience in designing both types of electrophoresis production line and can engineer the optimal solution based on your specific production needs.

The operational cost of an electrophoresis production line has several key components. The largest are typically energy (for heating tanks and the oven) and paint consumption. Other costs include water usage, chemical consumption for pretreatment, waste disposal, and labor. A well-designed, modern line from TIMS is engineered to minimize all these costs. Energy-efficient ovens, closed-loop rinse systems that reduce water use, automated chemical dosing that prevents waste, and high paint transfer efficiency all contribute to a lower total cost of ownership. When evaluating an electrophoresis production line, it's crucial to look beyond the initial purchase price and analyze these long-term operational savings.

Designing the layout for an electrophoresis production line is a critical step. The first factor is the process flow—the layout must logically follow the sequence of pretreatment, coating, and curing. The second is part size and geometry, which dictates the size of the tanks, the turning radius of the conveyor, and the oven profile. The third factor is throughput, which determines the overall length and speed of the line. Another key consideration is maintenance access, ensuring there is adequate space around all major equipment. Finally, operator ergonomics and safety for loading/unloading zones are paramount. The TIMS engineering team uses 3D modeling to create an optimized layout that balances all these factors for your specific facility.