E-coating is a paint process that uses electricity to coat a metal part with paint. The most common metals used include steel, zinc, brass, aluminum or any other conductive material. After cleaning, the entire part is immersed in the electrodeposition paint tank. The paint bath is comprised of 20% paint solids (the portion that remains on the coil) and 80% deionized water.

Upon application of the electrical potential (voltage) the paint solids are transported by electrical current from the bath to the part’s surface one molecule at a time. As the exterior surfaces of the part become coated, an electrical resistance builds. Since electricity always seeks the path of least resistance the electrical current automatically flows to areas of the part not previously coated. This process continues until all surfaces of the part are coated with the same thickness of paint solids. When the entire part is coated with the proper film thickness the flow of electricity will slow to a stop. When the electrical current stops every surface on the part is coated with a uniform thickness of paint solids.

After the paint solids are applied electrically, all runs and drips that could cause an uneven film must be removed in the post rinses. An ultra filter, which separates deionized water from the paint solids, is the basis for the closed loop post rinse system. Rinse water is continuously refiltered and reused. The excess paint, not electrically deposited, flows back to the paint tank where it can be reapplied.

Once the runs and drips have been removed, the part transfers to the dehydration and cure ovens. The dehydration oven is used to remove all water from the electrically applied paint film. After all the water is removed the part enters the cure oven. In the cure oven, the paint film undergoes a molecular transformation. The paint solids that were applied electrically now crosslink with each other and become a smooth, even, layer of acrylic modified epoxy. This epoxy film is extremely dense, thin, smooth and resistant to attack by a wide variety of chemicals.

Reifel Industries Inc. is an ISO 9001:2008 registered custom e-coating facilty located in Pioneer Ohio that provide full e-coating and dip-spin painting services to the entire midwest, but especially to Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. Reifel Industries Inc. also specialize in e-coating of partially painted parts, partially coated tethers, partially coated ISO FIX wires, and HVAC coated coils. Our highly efficient and complete coating of HVAC coils has also made a leader in the e-coat industry.