Digital application of automotive coatings

However, spray application causes overspray and high energy consumption during drying, but above all during conditioning of the process air. In addition, in the case of multicolour painting, the painted body parts have to be masked with films at great expense for protection. If, in the future, paints with different functions are to be applied that are particularly resistant to UV radiation, bird droppings or stone chips, for example, the process becomes even more complex.

Digital printing makes efficient use of coating quantities, and there is no overspray. Car manufacturers can also dispense with covering steps, thus reducing investment costs for painting equipment. Instead, individual colours and functions can be implemented efficiently. Aliphatic Desmodur^® raw materials ensure non-yellowing coatings with additional, proven benefits.

The project is part of a comprehensive program with which Covestro is systematically driving forward digitalization. One of the three pillars of the "Digital@Covestro" programme is the development of new business models and digital technical services. One focus area is a more efficient production at customers and the digitisation of entire value chains. The two other pillars of the programme are focused on digital operating processes in the company’s own production and the development and use of digital chemical trading platforms.