We recently completed startup in Arizona of the first of two fully automated Chain-On-Edge (COE) spindle conveyor systems designed for precision coating of aerospace fasteners.
The Challenge
Aerospace fasteners are small parts with big demands. The coating specified here was a high-end aluminum-pigmented finish, requiring:
Extremely accurate film build of just 0.25 to 0.50 mil dry film thickness
Constant circulation of the coating to prevent aluminum pigment from settling
Dead-spot-free flow paths to eliminate areas where the coating could pack up
Some fasteners also required 100% coverage, so custom tooling was developed to ensure full spray access and consistent rotation during application.
System Highlights
Conveyor & Ovens
A Chain-On-Edge system with short-wave infrared preheat and TAK cure ovens to achieve fast, uniform heating and curing.
Precision Coating Application
Autoquip 10-gallon stainless steel mix tanks for coating prep
Nordson diaphragm pumps for reliable fluid transfer
Sames Kremlin HVLP spray guns for efficient transfer and consistent atomization
DeVilbiss remote-piloted acorn regulators for fine spray pressure control
Dynaquip automatic ball valves integrated into the circulation loop
Automated Fluid Handling
The circulation system was designed to keep aluminum pigment in constant motion, while minimizing fittings that could create dead spots. Automated controls handle:
Auto-prime at startup
Air purge to return paint from the lines back to the mix tank, saving material and reducing waste
Auto flush for fast, reliable cleaning and maintenance
Spray Booth Design
Precision Conveyor’s custom booth design provides easy filter access and features overspray collection baffles, reducing filter consumption and lowering operating costs.
Automatic Spray Gun Positioning
To further reduce variability, both systems will include explosion-proof, servo-driven spray gun positioners. These will automatically move spray guns into programmed positions, ensuring:
Repeatable setup from part to part
Elimination of manual positioning inconsistencies
Reduced overspray, lowering paint use and improving finish quality
Due to the ongoing global rare earth magnet shortage, delivery of the positioners has been delayed. The system will run with manually positioned spray guns for now, with servo positioners scheduled to be installed in the coming months.
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