Essential Best Practices for En Masse Conveyors Coating

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In the world of bulk material handling, the En Masse Conveyor is a workhorse, often operating in abrasive, corrosive, or outdoor environments. While the mechanical integrity of the chains and flights is paramount, the surface treatment and paint application serve as the primary defense against structural degradation.

Proper coating is not just about aesthetics; it is about extending the lifecycle of the equipment and ensuring compliance with industrial safety standards. Below are the critical considerations for a professional-grade spray painting process.


1. Pre-Treatment and Surface Preparation

The longevity of any industrial coating is $80\%$ dependent on surface preparation. For En Masse conveyors, which often feature complex troughs and casing joints, simple wiping is insufficient.

Degreasing: Remove all fabrication oils and anti-rust fluids.

Abrasive Blasting: Achieve a Sa 2.5 grade cleanliness (near-white metal) to ensure a mechanical bond between the steel and the primer.

Dust Removal: Use compressed air to ensure no particulates remain in the corners of the troughs.


2. Strategic Masking of Precision Components

A common mistake in conveyor manufacturing is "over-spraying" functional areas. You must strictly protect:

Drive Shafts and Bearings: Paint ingress can cause premature seal failure.

Chain Paths and Rails: Excessive paint build-up on the internal guide rails can increase friction and motor load during initial commissioning.

Nameplates and Sight Glasses: Essential for maintenance and safety inspections.


3. Coating Selection and Environment Control

Depending on the handled material (e.g., grain, coal, or chemicals), the coating system must be tailored.

Primer: Zinc-rich epoxy primers are the gold standard for cathodic protection.

Topcoat: Use UV-resistant polyurethane for outdoor installations to prevent "chalking."

Climate Conditions: Maintain a substrate temperature at least 3°C above the dew point to prevent moisture entrapment, which leads to blistering.


4. Application Technique: The "Wet-on-Wet" Balance

Using Airless Spraying is recommended for En Masse conveyors due to the large surface area of the casing sections.

Uniformity: Ensure a consistent Dry Film Thickness (DFT) as specified in the technical datasheet (typically 120–180 microns for heavy-duty builds).

Corner Coverage: Pay extra attention to the welded seams of the conveyor flanges, as these are the first points where oxidation typically begins.


Conclusion

A high-quality paint finish on a En Masse Conveyor is a hallmark of manufacturing excellence. By focusing on rigorous surface prep and precise DFT control, operators can significantly reduce maintenance overhead and prevent premature corrosion.

 

 

En Masse Conveyor

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