During the last decade, the Automotive Industry has increasingly demonstrated a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). In particular, many programs and procedures have been put in place to help meet sustainability targets to reduce the consumption of natural resources, and associated emissions and waste. Today, more than ever, the challenges of the global economic environment demand that the industry must work even harder to meet sustainability targets and financial goals. Cost control and reduction of the Total Cost of Operation remain key factors in managing operating profitability.
Every automotive plant worldwide has strict environmental management practices in place which aim to:
The technologies used today in Paint Detackification were developed in the mid-1980s. Nalco, the worldwide leader in sustainability services and integrated and innovative water treatment solutions, has more recently focused its Research & Development capabilities upon the development of a new generation of advanced Paint Detackification programs. As a result of these efforts, Nalco is now able to offer its innovative APEX technology, including the first truly effective, 99% biodegradable paint detackifier chemistry.
Superior programme performance: a combination of new and innovative chemistries
Detackifier Composition is focused on Safety and Sustainability
Flocculant (Polymer) - Ultimer technology
Antifoams - Improved high performance materials
APEX technology has been successfully implemented in paint booth systems using all kinds of paint types (polyurethanes, 2K clear coats, high solids primers, high solids solvent-borne basecoats, and high solids water-borne basecoats). APEX technology delivers complete paint detackification with improved overall system collection efficiency and cleanliness. These advanced programs can rapidly lower system turbidity and total suspended solids. Challenging foaming issues frequently observed in paint detackification systems are quickly minimized or eliminated.
APEX technology was a 2012 winner of a Automotive News PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence) Award, which recognizes superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance among automotive suppliers.
After introducing APEX technology, customers are typically able to achieve an average reduction of 20% in the Total Cost of Operation. The evaluations of the impact of APEX technology upon customer Sustainability Performance Indicators (SPIs) in paint booth operation have shown the following average improvements:
Water
Energy
Air
Asset Protection
Waste
Nalco technical experts have extensive global experience working on every type of detackification programme and use a methodical approach to demonstrate the fit and capabilities of APEX technology.
Each paint spray booth is unique with specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This requires a through mechanical, operational and chemical (MOC) approach to optimise booth performance. Nalco technologies and services, along with detailed mechanical and operational knowledge, focus on providing optimum performance for each unique system, by combining integrated solutions that improve sustainability performance.
For more information on how APEX technology can reduce Total Costs of Operation, optimise system performance, and improve sustainability performance on-site, please contact your local Nalco Sales Representative.
