Transfer efficiency enhancement of power coating application using response surface methodology

Due to low content of volatile organic compounds and the ability to reclaim unused material, powder coatings present an environmentally friendly and economical means of providing protective and decorative finishes. Because the ratio of reclaimable material to virgin powder is kept low in many applications, obtaining high first pass transfer efficiency (FPTE) is a topic of current research. Theoretical models necessary to determine optimum operating conditions are very complex due to interactions of multiple parameters that determine FPTE. Frequently, a simplified approach is desirable to obtain solutions for optimization. Empirical methods can be used which can provide adequate tools for optimization in a short time. This paper describes response surface methodology and applies it to enhance the relative first pass transfer efficiency of an industrial powder coating process.