Industrial atmospheric plasma treatment of plastic before painting

Important results from the project

The purpose of the project was to evaluate plasma as a method to replace today´s pretreatment with. The intention was also to develop new methods, algorithm and software for simulation of plasma. Extensive technical trials on coupon and demonstrator level have been carried out including inline trials at the several of the companies and in an industrial relevant environment at RISE. A simulation tool was developed based on these experiments. The sustainability assessment shows great profits, and the cost assessment financial benefits.

Expected long term effects

The work has contributed to an increased knowledge and has been implemented in mathematical models and a software demonstrator. The plasma equipment was evaluated in 4 demonstrators (3 company-specific). Company-owned components have been plasma treated and painted in their own line or equivalent relevant environment. One of the demonstrators has also been evaluated with respect to cost and sustainability. A follow-up project is planned due to the complexity and requests for a method for integrating data.

Approach and implementation

The work was divided into 4 technical areas: Requirements and mapping of equipment suppliers and equipment. Extensive technical trials for increased understanding of the plasma process incl. statistical evaluation, a thesis project and further developed method before repainting. Development of methods, algorithms and software for efficient preparation of plasma treatment with a robot. Evaluation of plasma treatment in virtual and process technology demonstrations incl. cost and sustainability assessment.