Predictable Quality Through Controlled, Automated Processes.

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.

"Drag-out" is a term used in an electrophoresis production line to describe the liquid paint that clings to a part as it exits the main E-coat tank. This represents a significant loss of expensive paint material if not managed properly. A TIMS line minimizes and recovers drag-out in several ways. First, we design part racking and tilting mechanisms to help the paint drain back into the tank. Second, the part immediately enters a series of post-rinse tanks. These rinses wash off the remaining drag-out. This rinse water is then sent to an ultrafiltration system that separates the paint solids and returns them to the main tank, creating a closed-loop system that ensures nearly 100% of the paint is utilized.

If your current finishing process is a bottleneck, replacing it with a modern electrophoresis production line can provide a dramatic leap in efficiency. Unlike manual spray processes that are limited by operator speed, an automated E-coat line runs at a consistent, optimized pace. The process is highly repeatable, which nearly eliminates the need for time-consuming rework. Furthermore, a well-designed line from TIMS integrates all stages seamlessly, eliminating dead time between processes. Features like high-efficiency ovens and automated chemical dosing also reduce energy and material consumption, making the entire operation more cost-efficient and increasing the overall throughput of your facility.

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.