Case Study: Tom Howley

An initial desire to reduce VOC emissions resulted in a successful reduction, whilst developing a more user-friendly process.

Assessment of all aspects of the coating process

From an initial analysis, it was clear that Tom Howley was using a hybrid system - a water-based primer and a  solvent-based topcoat. The main issue Tom Howley was facing is the amount of VOC emissions, therefore, their main requirement was the need to reduce these VOC emissions.

The paints they required needed to be versatile to be suitable for different techniques of multiple sprayers. Their 2 pack solvent-based topcoat at the time was not easy to use for on-site manual application (brush/roller).

All standard colours matched via KolorteqTM programme 

From conducting an analysis it was clear what needed to be improved and the exact features that they required to continue high-quality production. Therefore with the support of our technical team at Kortec, Tom Howley utilised a full single-pack water-based system and trailed this with all sprayers to ensure they could select the optimum products for their projects and production.

Structured assessment on a weekly basis 

Following on from the initial implementation stage, Tom Howley has virtually eliminated VOC emissions. Furthermore, they have improved the ease of use for onsite applications, reduced waste with single-pack products and become more user-friendly in an open booth environment.

Kortec continues to support Tom Howley and is currently supporting the move to automatic spray/curing equipment with product/equipment trials being conducted in Italy.