New two-part conformal coating how-to video series

The videos will run through the basic set-up; outlining how to modify production by retrofitting 2K valves to existing equipment; showing the valves in action and overviewing how they work; considering calibration and testing; spray pattern set up; troubleshooting; cleaning and finally exploring the differences between 2K and solvent based coatings.

The new how-to videos can be viewed on Electrolube’s website and the Electrolube YouTube channel.

Electrolube’s 2K series of coatings is significantly different in its protective capabilities due to its capacity for greater coating thickness and enhanced edge coverage, effectively providing the performance of an Encapsulation Resin with the ease of application of a Conformal Coating. 2K coatings are VOC-free, fast-curing, high performance two-part systems that provide a solvent-free alternative to both UV and silicone materials, require less capital investment than UV materials and improve on the performance of most silicones in harsh environments.

The majority of coatings in the 2K range are hydrophobic, providing excellent protection against water immersion, salt mist and humidity, ensuring that they are suited for automotive electronics. Whilst 2K coating materials can be applied thinly (50 to 75μm), they have been designed, formulated and tested to be applied at much greater thicknesses (150 to 300μm), to facilitate superior encapsulation of components and component leads.

Available from PVA and Nordson Asymtek, 2K valves facilitate simple mixing of the two-part coating and can be programmed within the settings, making it very straightforward for the operator to adjust for varying 2K materials. Controlling the flow rate at a suitably low level whilst also maintaining the correct mix ratios is key and low volume progressive cavity pumps ensures successful achievement of this. 

The pumps accurately control the flow rates of the individual components of the formulations within ±1%, maintaining control of the volumetric mix ratio and ensuring correct curing and properties of the dispensed materials. Additionally, the spray head velocity can be up to three times faster than traditional 100% solids materials spray applications, significantly reducing coating cycle times.

Ron Jakeman, Electrolube’s Managing Director, commented, “Electrolube’s 2K systems demonstrate extraordinary performance when compared to other coating chemistries and types, hence the reason for the extraordinary levels of interest. Their popularity and performance capabilities have initiated the development of the new video series to demonstrate all aspects of implementing 2K into production.

“It is very straightforward with a simple valve modification to existing dispensing equipment and can make all the difference to extending the reliability and lifetime of the device requiring protection in its end-use environment.

“This is particularly relevant for harsh environments, given that 2K can be applied thickly and without cracking during thermal shock testing, enabling a greater degree of component lead coverage. This, in turn, results in improved performance during salt-spray, mixed flowing gas (MFG) and condensation testing; traditionally grueling test regimes commonly used during automotive qualification campaigns.”