Hi-end Automatic Film Applicator for Coatings and Ink

The new TQC Automatic film applicator is developed to meet the demands of the modern paint and coatings laboratories. Parameters such as film thickness, opacity, hiding power, gloss/color all vary with different draw down techniques. Efficient testing of coatings, ink and their formulations requires reproducible and accurate film samples applied on test-charts, specimens and test panels. Draw down speed and consistency, type and weight of the applicator, shear rate of the coatings etc. are all factors that influence the smoothness and uniformity of the applied film. These factors are all excluded when utilising an automatic film applicator.

The TQC Automatic film applicator is equipped with unique ergonomic features that eliminate many steps in the standard operation procedure. An automatic chart clamp secures and releases the test-chart, the holder for the applicator returns automatically after the application leaving wire wound rod coaters in a special holder.

The speed is between 0 and 500 mm/s freely adjustable as are the length and start/stop positions. All settings are made digitally through the multi-lingual menu-driven human interface that offers an intuitive operation using a convenient jog/dial switch.

The operator orientation of the film applicator results in a small footprint that saves counter space however the machine accepts test charts as large as A3+ sizes. An ultra flat float glass bed or anodised perforated vacuum bed with integrated vacuum pump are available as test table.

To guarantee operators safety the TQC Automatic film applicator is equipped with an emergency switch but also with a range of intelligent safety sensors that detect objects between the machine’s moving parts. Based upon the operating status and draw down length the machine instantly will recognise a dangerous situation, which will lead to a full stop of the process.