Title: Removing the paint shop process: options for painting and decorating injection mouldings

Authors: V. Goodship, G.F. Smith

Addresses: Warwick Manufacturing Group, Department of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK. ' Warwick Manufacturing Group, Department of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK

Abstract: Technological drivers exist for the complete removal of the painting process. These include satisfying changing customer requirements for multi-functional and decorative products, improved cost effectiveness and to meet stringent environmental legislation; for example in lower emissions requirements and recycling/disposal. Alternatives to the painting process are discussed. One such technology is In-Mould Decoration (IMD). This technique is attractive because a fully, or partially, decorated component is produced directly from the moulding process, with reduced emissions at lower process costs when compared to traditional techniques. A new IMD technique called IN SPIRE and its potential for energy savings compared to a paint shop is considered.

Keywords: painting alternatives; injection moulding; IMD; GIPT; in-mould film; IN-SPIRE; environmental legislation; in-mould decoration; decorated components; emissions reduction; energy savings; environmental technology.

DOI: 10.1504/IJETM.2008.017506

International Journal of Environmental Technology and Management, 2008 Vol.8 No.4, pp.339 - 347

Published online: 13 Mar 2008 *

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