From Raw Parts to Perfect Primer in One Continuous Flow.

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.

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 process flow of an electrophoresis production line is a highly controlled, sequential journey. It begins with loading parts onto a conveyor system. The parts then enter a multi-stage pretreatment tunnel, where they are sprayed or dipped in a series of cleaning, rinsing, and conversion coating tanks. After pretreatment, they enter the main E-coat tank, where they are submerged and electrically charged to deposit the paint. Following deposition, the parts go through several post-rinse stages to recover excess paint and ensure a clean surface. Finally, they travel through a large curing oven, where the coating is baked at high temperatures to cross-link and harden into its final durable film, before being unloaded from the line.

"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.