PRODUCT FOCUS

Flowsense, a smart technology for PXS powder centers, optimizes powder flow using digital intelligence. Sensors monitor powder delivery for each gun, automatically adjusting output to meet user-set targets. This enhances coating uniformity, reduces waste and extends service part life. Integrated with the COATIFY platform, Flowsense provides real-time system insights and process control. Operated via a touchscreen interface, it offers real-time feedback on collector nozzle status. For high-volume applications, even minor reductions in coating thickness can lead to significant cost savings.

Image courtesy of Wagner.

The Judge LED light booth provides brands, manufacturers and suppliers with a reliable solution for assessing color accuracy under standard LED lighting. As industries shift from fluorescent to LED lighting due to energy efficiency mandates and regulatory changes, maintaining color consistency has become increasingly complex. This booth enables precise visual color evaluation by replicating the spectral power distributions (SPD) of legacy fluorescent lighting, including U30, U35, CWF and TL84. Designed to integrate seamlessly into existing color workflows, the system supports industries such as textiles, automotive, paint and coatings, plastics and packaging. By ensuring accurate color matching before final product assembly, it helps companies meet regulatory requirements and prevent costly inconsistencies.

Image courtesy of X-Rite.

The FDA-600 Dual Shaft Mixer is a new model designed for processing emulsions, dispersions and suspensions. It is capable of handling a wide range of densities and viscosities, making it suitable for use in industries such as chemicals, composites, batteries, adhesives and coatings. The mixer has a 600-gallon working capacity and is constructed in stainless steel type 304. It features two independently driven top-entering agitators, including a two-wing anchor agitator and a high-speed disperser. The mixer is also equipped with a vacuum system and a stainless steel dimple jacket for heating and cooling. The FDA-600 is designed for robust industrial mixing and is built to handle the demands of high-viscosity materials.

Image courtesy of ROSS.

The recently launched transparent heat-reflecting coating, HeiQ Xpectra, is designed to help architects and builders improve the thermal performance of buildings while maintaining their original aesthetic. The coating can reduce the U-value of walls by up to 25% with just one application, aligning with the EU's Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) goals. HeiQ Xpectra is water vapor-permeable, enabling it to enhance energy efficiency and thermal comfort without the need for traditional retrofitting methods. HeiQ Xpectra will be available in Germany under the Franken Maxit brand "maxit thermX" and globally under the HeiQ brand. The company is seeking distribution partners to expand the coating's reach.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock, adapted by HeiQ.

The Aesthetix is a new tool for optical surface characterization. It is designed to measure a wide range of appearance characteristics, including gloss, haziness, texture and color. It also offers a detailed analysis of surface features such as sparkle and graininess. The tool is equipped with a camera that mimics visual surface perception, allowing for a more accurate assessment of surface characteristics. The Aesthetix is a hand-held sensor that can be used in conjunction with Rhopoint’s modular Appearance Elements software. It is compatible with Windows 10 and 11 devices and can be used in automated workflows. The tool is the result of a collaboration between Rhopoint and the University of Leuven, as well as leading surface coatings manufacturers.

Image courtesy of Rhopoint.

MicroTex^® 950, a new texture additive for powder coatings, offers formulators a PFAS-free alternative to PTFE-based additives. Designed to provide uniform fine texturing and single-digit gloss reduction, it delivers performance comparable to traditional PTFE texturizers. The additive is compatible with various chemistries, including polyester/TGIC, polyester/HAA and polyester/epoxy. As regulatory restrictions on PFAS substances take effect, formulators are seeking compliant alternatives. Micro Powders continues to expand its PTFE-free portfolio and plans to exit the PTFE market by the end of 2025.

Image courtesy of Micro Powders.