Paint Fixtures for Formaplex

Paint fixtures are the means to hold plastic and composite components in the correct position for painting. Also they help keep the shape of the component when it goes through the paint baking process.

Project Specification

Must hold component securely.
Must be able to remove the component from the fixture without damage.
No bladed vertical framework to touch ‘B’ surface as it will show on ’A’ surface after baking.
Preferred location is through holes in component.
Use diameter bar framework where possible.
Must not exceed 12KG.
Stay within stipulated overall dimensions.
All fixtures to be mounted on standard conveyor spigot.

Work Outcome

The fixtures fall into two main categories. Larger components that will have their own standalone fixture. Then there are the smaller components that that can be mounted as multiples within a 1M x 1M square frame. The layout of these is defined by the access of the paint gun around each part. Each component be it individually or multiple must be held firmly but not to the extent that it may get damaged when it is removed from the fixture after painting. The component must be held and supported in such a way that it cannot be allowed to deform under heat, in the baking process. Ideal location/mounting points are existing holes within the component that pins can pass through.

Any additional support is generally horizontally mounted diameter bars forming a framework that locate within specific locations. Generally not vertical plate work and not on the flat face of a ‘B’ surface as this as proved to be a problem showing though on to the ‘A’ surface after baking. The final stainless steel frame will be mounted on a standard conveyor spigot, staying within stipulated overall dimensions for the most ergonomic height etc.

Our designs are based around the above design brief, whilst also working with the customers paint and Quality department. Thus ensuring that everyone is happy to sign off on the fact that the fixture will allow the painting process to meet their criteria for supplying a perfectly sized and painted component every time. Repeatability is one of the major contributing factors when producing painted components thus saving scrap and wastage. In turn making the process more efficient and cost effective.

Client Testimonial

I would like to thank the Fabritec team on behalf of Formaplex for completing another suite of paint fixtures. They have really helped our operations in providing solutions for our paint fixture, work bench and factory assembly fixture requirements.

Knowing that they are on hand to help is really positive for our team and we can rely on a very fast and efficient turn around. I would not hesitate to recommend their services.

– Dave Tribe
Technical Development Engineer