Engineered to Master High-Temperature Applications.

Inconsistent color in an enamel finish is a frustrating problem, usually rooted in a lack of process control in the enamel equipment. The top three causes are: 1. Inconsistent Application Thickness: Even a small variation in the amount of enamel applied will cause the color to look different after firing. This is solved with automated or robotic applicators. 2. Inconsistent Firing Temperature: The final color of many pigments is highly dependent on the exact temperature and time in the furnace. Even a 5-10 degree variance can cause a noticeable shift. 3. Inconsistent Enamel Slip: In a wet process, the water content and viscosity of the enamel slip must be kept constant. A high-quality TIMS enamel equipment system uses automation to control all three of these variables, guaranteeing consistent color from batch to batch.

This is a fundamental misunderstanding. Paint is an organic coating that dries or cures at low temperatures. Porcelain enamel is an inorganic, glass-based coating that is fused to metal at extremely high temperatures. The process requires highly specialized enamel equipment, particularly a furnace capable of reaching over 800°C. The resulting finish is not a layer sitting on top of the metal; it is a new, composite material with a direct molecular bond between the glass and the steel. This is why a true porcelain enamel finish is dramatically harder, more heat-resistant, and more chemical-resistant than any paint could ever be.

The furnace is the most critical piece of enamel equipment, and there are key features to look for. First, demand exceptional temperature uniformity. Ask for proof of a temperature variance of no more than ±5°C throughout the firing zone. Second, evaluate the insulation and energy efficiency; a well-designed furnace will save you significant operational costs. Third, consider the conveyor system; it must be made of high-temperature alloys and designed to remain straight and stable after thousands of heating and cooling cycles. Finally, the control system should be a modern PLC that allows for precise, programmable firing curves. A high-quality furnace from TIMS is an investment in quality and reliability.

When choosing enamel equipment, a key decision is the application method. Wet application uses a water-based slurry of enamel particles called a "slip." It is very versatile and can be used to coat complex shapes via dipping or spraying, but it requires a separate drying stage. Dry electrostatic application uses equipment similar to powder coating to apply a layer of fine glass powder. This method offers very high transfer efficiency, produces little waste, and often results in a more uniform layer. However, it can be more challenging to get coverage in recessed "Faraday cage" areas. TIMS has deep expertise in both types of enamel equipment and can help you determine the optimal process for your product.