Why positive displacement is the way to go for plural-component mixing

Gear pumps have long been the industry’s standard for plural-component mixing, but over time, these pumps have gradually reached their limits. So what can positive displacement technology do to provide an answer to the increased requirements in industrial finishing? And is the added value worth the investment?

True positive displacement allows pump systems to achieve the most accurate mixing ratio available on the market of factory paint mix rooms. By using dosing cylinder pumps, positive displacement technology ensures better mixing efficiency, maximum flow control and consistent performance, while reducing solvent use and material waste.

Process control from start to finish

Positive displacement (PD) is a method that moves a fixed volume of material at a constant flow and speed. Although gear pumps function according to the same principle, they can never guarantee 100% positive displacement. Low viscous materials easily slip through gears that are worn out because of damage caused by solids and abrasives being forced through close tolerances. High viscous materials, on the other hand, tend to pack on the gears, adding to the inaccuracy of the mixing ratio.

These issues can be avoided by using dosing cylinder pumps that achieve true positive displacement. Encoder-based pistons push the fluids through the system in a consistent and smooth motion, without the risk of material slipping through or packing on the parts. The flow rate and pressure are maintained at a constant level, even when the pump stalls, which allows operators to resume their work instantly at any given time.

Versatile systemS accommodate a wide range of components

Unlike gear pumps, PD mixing systems can easily combine several pumps in one setup, allowing users to mix up to four components at a time and to switch between colours in the blink of an eye. As the system is not sensitive to wear, it can process a vast array of materials and catalysts in most applications, including under high pressure (up to 1,500 psi).

Invest in efficient technology to reduce downtime and material waste

Positive displacement mixing systems owe a great deal of their success to their exceptional efficiency. Faster flushing and smooth colour changes mean that PD proportioners require less maintenance, produce less waste and experience less downtime. It should not come as a surprise that spray coating businesses are increasingly opting for this innovative technology to replace their old gear-based systems. Its operational excellence is quickly changing the industry’s landscape.

Would you like to know how positive displacement technology can transform your business? Click the link below to discover our ProMix Positive Displacement product range and to explore all the system’s details.