For coating operations, effective monitoring of product temperature is crucial for maintaining coating quality. PhoenixTM, temperature monitoring solutions provider, explains optimal paint-curing oven operation.
When it comes to coating quality, the ability to monitor product temperature through the cure oven is essential to ensuring the cure schedule recommended by the coating supplier. Although the basic principle of thru-process temperature monitoring has remained unchanged over the years, PhoenixTM’s technology offering has evolved, bringing unique innovations to the market.
PhoenixTM thru-process temperature profiling systems are designed for the demands of the busy coating operation. To suit different application demands, a range of data loggers are offered measuring 6 to 20 thermocouples. The data logger accuracy of ±0.3 °C guarantees data quality. Powered with user replaceable AA batteries, the data logger offers 1000 hours of logging time. No charging or battery replacement delays The silicone free 113 mm high aluminium thermal barrier provides over 2 hours protection at 200 °C and weighs only 3.7 kg making transfer to and lifting on the line trouble free. Real time monitoring options are available with a RF Radio Telemetry communication link. With this option, measured temperature data is transmitted direct from the data logger via a thermally insulated RF antenna exiting the barrier with the thermocouple cables. The RF signal transmitted out of the oven is then passed along a series of repeater units, if needed, (‘LWMesh’ networking protocol) back to the main coordinator connected to the monitoring PC. Process Issues can be identified immediately, and process optimisation can be performed live with the system in situ.
Intrinsically safe ATEX certified technology
PhoenixTM has complemented its data logger range with the new PTM1500 Epsilon-x temperature data logger offering a unique intrinsically safe 10/20 channel profiling system. The PTM1500 data logger is certified against the ATEX European standards as Group II category for safe operation in gaseous and dust environments (ATEX Zone 2 and 22 respectively), allowing safe operation in automotive paint and powder coating applications with such ATEX zone classifications.
Phoenix Factor
To make cure analysis easier and more accurate the Phoenix Factor cure analysis calculation is available in the Thermal View and Thermal View Finishing Software packages. The analysis calculation generates a single Cure Index value, which is accurate yet easy to set-up and interpret. The Phoenix Factor allows not only instant quality assurance but also accurate optimisation of the process settings and direct comparison of different processes.
Thermocouple innovation
With its thru-process monitoring systems, PhoenixTM offers a comprehensive range of thermocouples. Designed specifically for coating applications they offer a robust, easy to use accurate solution for monitoring a range of different product types and materials. Choose from clamp, off-set magnetic or MiniMag to suit. Supplied with user replaceable cables to minimise consumable costs.
Optical profiling
The PhoenixTM Optic system allows thru-process paint defect detection using Optical Profiling. The high-resolution video camera can safely travel through the paint oven with an independent torch recording video footage of the product transfer through the oven. The TS64 thermal barrier permits in a single barrier the facility to both protect the PhoenixTM data logger and the PhoenixTM Optic system with a thermal performance of 3 hours at 200 °C. Problems, such as paint sags or curtains, paint or rinse entrapment, or condensate contamination can be detected and the sources identified, allowing informed, corrective action strategies to be reached. Oven damage or conveyor transfer issues can also be identified under production conditions.
