An important feature of the Automotive Application Development Center is a computerized paint line that is capable of duplicating every aspect of a production system. The power-wash cycle is programmable for media, nozzle distance, pressure, and time. Precise film builds of adhesion promoters, basecoats, and clearcoats can be applied in a downdraft spray booth with temperature and humidity control. Flash can be controlled for both time and air movement; and the gas-fired, dual-filtration bake oven can vary ramp-up/ramp-down temperatures.

We employ a full range of specialized and conventional instruments to test painted or precolored parts as well as sample plaques. A walk-in environmental chamber permits cycling of temperature and humidity for investigation of a material’s dimensional behavior. We can test for chemical resistance, for paint adhesion under water pressure, and for reaction to bending stress. A programmable gravelometer lets us compare the chip-resistance of painted samples. The Center’s paint lab also operates leading-edge equipment for evaluating surface durability.