The rheology of products: vertical application
During production processes, vertical applications can lead to “defects” such as paint sagging, which is an undesirable phenomenon that can affect the quality and performance of coatings. This problem manifests itself as the formation of droplets or runs on the painted surface, resulting in an uneven and unaesthetic finish. Understanding the causes of sagging and the rheology of the materials is essential to prevent this problem in the paint and varnish industry. Let’s find out what it is and how Industrias Químicas Iris develops our products adapted to your production processes for the best results.
Types of fluids
As we have already mentioned, rheology, which studies the flow and deformation of materials, is crucial in this context, as it allows us to predict the behavior of these fluids during application and drying, thus ensuring optimum performance and superior quality in the final products. In our sector, it is vital to control all these aspects to provide a tailor-made product for each production process. For this reason, our technical team knows and develops the product precisely, considering the necessary variables, so we consider what types of fluids there are and what they are usually used for.
In the industrial paints and coatings industry, an understanding of fluids, whether Newtonian, thixotropic or pseudo-plastic, is essential to optimize the formulation and application of these products. Newtonian fluids, which maintain a constant viscosity regardless of the shear stress applied, are ideal for applications where a uniform application is required, such as painting flat surfaces. Thixotropic fluids, conversely, have a viscosity that decreases with time under stress, making them perfect for applications that require easy handling and fast viscosity recovery, such as varnishes that must be applied with brushes or rollers. Finally, pseudoplastic fluids, which also show a decrease in viscosity with increasing shear stress, are used in formulations that require good
Rheology of materials What is it and what’s its importance?
Rheology is the science that studies the flow and deformation of materials, and plays a crucial role in the manufacturing industry. Understanding the rheology of materials allows companies to optimise their production processes, improve product quality and reduce costs.It therefore focuses on how materials respond to applied forces, including both liquids and solids. In the context of base and finish manufacturing, this is especially relevant for materials such as paints, coatings, adhesives and other products that require a uniform and controlled application.
Of course, it is a very specific detail whose control is very important for the achievement of the objectives. Therefore, the usual causes of this process of paint sagging could be the following:
2. Poor Application Control: Application technique also plays an important role. Applying paint in layers that are too thick or not maintaining a proper angle can cause the material to build up and sag.
3.Environmental conditions: The temperature and humidity of the environment can influence the behaviour of the paint. High temperatures can accelerate drying, while high humidity can hinder the evaporation of solvents, which can lead to sagging.
4.Paint Composition: The formulation of the paint, including the ratio of resins, pigments and solvents plus additives, affects its rheological behaviour. An imbalance in these components can result in poor stability and hence sagging and levelling.
5.Interaction with the Surface: The nature of the surface to be painted is also crucial. Very smooth or specially treated surfaces may not allow good adhesion, which can contribute to sagging.
How to combat it: By creating a great product.
After this presentation, therefore – and taking all these aspects into account – the most important points for developing a good product would be based on the following:
1. Rheology control: This is fundamental as it determines how a material flows. In the manufacture of varnishes and paints, the rheology must be adequate and in perfect balance to allow easy and uniform application.
2. Product Stability: Rheology also helps to predict the stability of products over time. Good rheological control (thixotropy) ensures that materials maintain their properties during storage and use, avoiding problems such as sedimentation or phase separation.
3. Process Optimisation: With a thorough understanding of rheology, companies can fine-tune their mixing, application and drying processes. This not only improves efficiency but can also reduce material waste and minimize production time.
4. New Product Development: We experiment with different formulations and additives to develop new products that meet market demands. For example, the incorporation of certain additives can improve the stability and reliability of a finish. Where Iris knows best how to make the process successful.
With the experience and professionalism with which the Industrias Químicas Iris team develops products and processes, a flawless finish is a sure result. Good luck with your project!
En Iris, crecemos con sus necesidades, personalizamos su experiencia productiva para que obtenga los mejores resultados. El grupo comercial de Iris está especializado en ti. No dude escribirnos a: industrias@quimicasiris.com.
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