New-Generation Electrodialysis Introduced for Cataphoretic Surface Coatings

Electrocoat paint is one of the most advanced surface treatment technologies for metal products. The development of electrocoat technology has been led by the automotive industry, as all automobile manufacturers focus on corrosion resistance of bodies and other components. High surface quality, combined with suitable economic and ecological conditions, has predetermined the use of this technology in other mechanical engineering and consumer industries as well. Cataphoresis is a coating technology for metal surface preparation requiring significant anticorrosive protection. Dependent on the paint, the electrolyte (fluid paint solution) is connected as a cathode in a direct current field and draws cations from the paint. Electrocoating cells (flat or tubular) are connected as anodes and are used to maintain a balance concentration in the paint bath. The high corrosion resistance of electrocoat deposits allows extending the service life of any metal part. Leading flat and heavy anodic or cathodic cell types have been continuously replaced with new lightweight tubular cells. The small and lightweight design reduces service time and operational downtime. A failure of a small cell has a much less negative effect on the coating process than the failure of a large flat cell. Currently, two tubular cell types are on the market: cells welded or bonded from flat sheet membrane and extruded tubular shaped membrane. Each type has certain advantages and disadvantages described in this article. Czech company MEGA-TEC is the only company in Europe that produces complete cells and its own electrophoretic membranes. It is the only manufacturer worldwide capable of producing all electrophoretic cells. • It can supply all necessary replacement parts such as electrodes, seals and connecting elements as custom solutions for flat and semi cells. The ion exchange membrane in flat sheet form is stretched between the anode and frame. The standard RALEX Membrane AMH5E-HD has been in service since 1996. • D81mm welded membrane tubular cells: The membrane is mounted around the anode by placing a perforated plastic tube. RALEX Membrane AMH6E-HD, as the newest generation of e-coat membrane, has been in use since 2013. • D65mm extruded membrane tubular cells: The membrane in tubular form is mounted around the anode by being fastened to the bottom cap and top header. RALEX Membrane AM-XT was developed in 2012. With our Turkish partner Serin Kataforez Sistemleri and their experience, we can develop a complete custom technical solution for an electrophoretic painting system. Please contact us for more information.   Author: Daniel Jandac E-coat Sales Manager MEGA-TEC s.r.o.       Translator: Bülent Serin General Manager Serin Kataforez Sistemleri