PPG Launches B1:B2 Automotive Waterborne Paint Process In US

PPG Industries, a manufacturer of transportation coatings, has launched the first use of its B1:B2 waterborne paint technology in the US.

According to PPG, the B1:B2 (wet-on-wet) compact process technology is currently in production at BMW assembly plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. This marks the first use of a waterborne compact process in a US automotive manufacturing plant.

The new B1:B2 technology works within BMW's integrated paint process and allows customers to reduce number of steps necessary to paint a vehicle by moving primer application into topcoat booth. This movement eliminates the primer booth and all related processing.

The company said that B1 layer provides primer, filling, chip and durability benefits and B2 layer provides colour and additional durability. Both B1 and B2 layers are applied wet-on-wet and do not require a baking or a heated dehydration process in between. This results in a reduced energy usage and paint shop footprint.

In addition, B1:B2 process generates savings in capital and operating costs for OEMs by reducing manufacturing footprint of a paint shop, lowering energy consumption and increasing overall process efficiency, the company claims.

Bob White, director of global accounts at BMW, said: “Our waterborne B1:B2 technology highlights our dedication to helping our customers reduce the overall paint shop footprint and environmental impact, while achieving superior appearance and maintaining color flexibility.”