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Safety

Think and act in a safe manner. Always disconnect power and use a lockout before you work on the E-coat system, or any of the related subsystems. Observe any confined space conditions. Use the appropriate safety equipment and clothing for the task. Please carefully read all the instructions listed below to familiarize yourself with the project before attempting to perform any of the work.

Required Materials

• ED paint solvent & solubilzer

Required Tools

• 100 micron filter bag

General

ED paints are considered a contaminant if they are able to get inside of a Cell. The ED paint solids have a charge the same as the Electrode of the Cell and so try to leave the Cell, but only wind up as a fouling agent. The result is higher, than necessary voltage, and in some cases -so much that the ED system will not function properly. In most cases, it is possible to remove enough of the solids to return the Cells to a normal condition. The first step is to find the location, or entry point, where the paint solids enter the Cells. The matter of this Reference is how to clean out the Cells and related hardware.

1. If the solids are being dripped in from above, then order a Splash Guard, PN 1751001, or equal. If the Cells are being cut, punctured, torn, then review the tools used to fish fallen parts from the ED tank and consider using a Membrane Guard to protect the membrane (ask your sales and service engineer for more information).
2. Once the entry point is identified and closed off, it then becomes a matter of removing the paint solids from the Cells, holding tank, and manifolds.
3. Drain the electrolyte-holding tank and refill with DI water. Turn off all the individual Cell supply valves. Create a connection between the terminus of the Supply Manifold and the terminus of the Return Manifold.
4. Add the filter/strainer bag to the end of the Return Manifold before it empties into the Electrolyte holding tank.
5. Add enough solvent to equal about 2% of the total volume. A method the reduce the amount of solvent used is to lower the electrolyte tank level to the minimum height above the pump suction. Add enough solubilzer so the pH for cathodic paints is between 2.0 and 2.5, and for anodic paints, the pH is between 12.5 and 13.
6. Circulate this cleaning solution for 24 to 36 hours over a weekend and make sure the DI water valve is turned off.
7. With the start of production, turn the DI water valve to its proper position. If possible, save the cleaning solution in a 55-gallon drum if additional cleaning is necessary.
8. Repeat the cleaning until the filter/strainer bag has no more solids.

BULLETIN 990151