Blast from the Past :: 1930’s Paint Technique has Modern Day “Green” Applications

Lemont, IL

Resicom Project Coordinator Brian Perla and Technician Arnulfo Cantu headed north to Edmonton Canda to attend comprehensive training on electrostatic painting techniques. The training was conducted by a leading expert in the field and hosted by a prominent manufacturer of the electrostatic painting equipment.

As modern science as electrostatic painting may seem, this technique for painting metal was actually invented in 1938.  During the process, a high voltage is applied to paint inside the sprayer gun. The paint particles become negatively charged, as when released from the sprayer search for a surface (such as metal) that has a positive charge to which it then bonds.  The benefits of this system feature low paint overspray and mess, cost effective use of material, and the “wrap” effect in which the paint appears to bend around corners.

One of its downsides is that it traditional has only been successful with solvent based paint products. As new VOC regulations are becoming more prevalent, most traditional paint products are eliminated from electrostatic paint use.

The training addressed both current limitations and new advancements in both equipment and product that can make water-based electrostatic painting possible.

“I am excited about the new developments,” said Perla. “It is ironic how this technique went from one of the more toxic methods of paint applications to the greenest. You combine the low overspray application with the VOC compliment paint and you have a breakthrough in the industry.”

Resicom believes in the bold pursuit of normal.  It should be normal that the companies you hire make you better.  It should also be normal that we strive towards innovations that promote environmentally sustainable solutions.