Nov - Dec 2003 Products: Bendy bodykits that don't break
Product Spotlight
While many bodyshops are applying themselves to decisions over plastic repairs, body mouldings made in Melbourne by U.P. Industries are a whole different story.
As these When fitted in an OEM situation to a new car, U.P. mouldings are tested between minus 40 and plus 90 degrees Celsius to make sure their shapes conform to the rest of the car body.
The latest Honda Integra and Ford BA models both come with optional body kits made by U.P. The company makes mouldings for literally hundreds of different cars.
The process begins in the pattern shop which is equipped with innovative composite resin tooling -- ideal for large mouldings which require a superior surface finish. The pattern shop is run with the latest CAD/CAM technology.
Once the moulding has been designed a tool is made to produce it -- either in resin or steel, depending upon the type of product and the numbers required. The job then goes into production using the outstanding properties of thermoset polyurethane. These include excellent impact strength and shape memory, minimal restrictions on part size and weight, unique balance of rigidity and toughness, good chemical resistance, good paintability and low weight.
Painting is carried out by a fully computerised robotic production line. OEM paints are used, ensuring a perfect match to the cars on which the mouldings will be fitted.
Laser-guided IRT
IRT Sweden lays claim to being the pioneer of infra-red curing technology with over 25 years of experience in supplying the refinish industry. To back its claims, it has now introduced a laser-guided system to guarantee one hundred per cent accuracy when using its equipment.
IRT Mobile XLNC units have always been equipped with a parameter control device mounted on the side of the cassette head, which measures both the temperature and correct curing distance in conjunction with the PCB Control Board.
Experience in the field had indicated that on some occasions operators of the IRT unit could aim the parameter control incorrectly in areas such as the wheel well, even though the PCB Control Board has an automatic feature equipped to cut the unit out should a higher temperature (that has been programmed into the computer) is read.
In its continual product development, IRT Sweden has now introduced a circular laser pointer, which projects on to the panel to be cured. This state-of-the-art laser-guided system now ensures complete accuracy when using the parameter control.
Enquiries, Sydney Automotive Paints & Equipment, tel: (02) 9568 2233.
Compact compressor
Identifying the need for small, reliable air compressors in light industrial and workshop applications, Atlas Copco Compressors Australia has released the compact GX2-5C oil injected rotary screw compressor.
The new tank-mounted compressor has been developed to provide light industry with a quiet and reliable alternative to the noisy and inefficient piston compressors that have, until recently, been standard equipment in small workshops.
The comfort of workers is ensured through the unit's full sound enclosure which reduces noise to 61-64dB, making it quieter than a standard air conditioner or office environment and only slightly higher than a normal level conversation. A shaft-mounted low noise fan also contributes to quiet operation.
Incorporating an air receiver and delivering refrigerated air of the same quality as heavy duty industrial machines, another feature of the GX is its low energy consumption. Furthermore, a start/stop control fitted as standard ensures power is only consumed whenever compressed air is used.
Available in either a 50Hz or 60Hz model, the new compressor has a working pressure of up to 10.3bar and a free air delivery capacity of 4-10 L/s. Dimensions of the unit are 1420mm x 1280mm x 575mm.
Atlas Copco is offering a special deal to customers who purchase any GX machine ranging from two to 22kW before the end of 2003.
Included with the machine at no extra cost (conditions apply) is a two-year (or 8000 operating hours) consumable parts deal. That covers all consumable parts used in the agreed period. All parts will also be supported by a full Atlas Copco two year warranty.
Enquriies: tel 1800 684 747. Website - www.atlascopco.com.au
Dynaplus body filler
The Dynatron brand of body fillers has been well respected in the Australian market for over 20 years. For many years Dynatron led the market with the first lightweight micro cell fillers and air dispensing systems for 17kg pails of bodyfiller.
Dynatron USA is now focusing on the industry's need for multifunctional body fillers required for the repair of modern vehicles. Dynaplus Bodyfiller meets these requirements by offering superb adhesion on galvanised e-coated and new high strength steels, says the company.
Dynaplus utilises the best quality resins to offer a 'stain-free' guarantee. Vacuum processing of the filler, homogenised consistency and its attractive gold colour make Dynaplus the ideal filler for base, clear and pearl colours. This, combined with excellent sanding and featheredging characteristics, and tack-free properties offer noticeably less sand paper clogging than other fillers.
Director of Enfield Motor Body Repairs in Sydney, Mansour Taouk, said about the product: "Dynaplus mixes smoothly, ensuring no pinholes and it provides excellent adhesion on all types of metals -- a must with today's current developments. The easy sanding properties of Dynaplus result in no paper clog, ensuring a superior feather edge. We have absolutely no problems regarding staining with the topcoats."
Enquiries, tel: (02) 9771 1600.
VOC-reduced products
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are the solvents found in liquids such as paints and are a major source of air pollution. As a part of Glasurit's ongoing concerns for the environment it is following European legislation to reduce the amount of air pollution by introducing more products with reduced VOC emissions.
Glasurit's 285-100 VOC Rapid Filler, white, is a wet-on-wet surfacer and adhesion promoter and is especially useful for the sign writing process. The increased solid content of 285-100 VOC offers an increased film build over the previous product 285-100.
The Glasurit HS 285-95 VOC Tintable Filler, transparent, is a primer filler and wet-on-wet surfacer for the 55 and 22 lines. The 285-95 VOC is suitable as a sanding filler or wet-on-wet surfacer. It is ideal for use with poor opacity topcoat colours and in the plastic finishing system.
Glasurit Universal HS 285-60 VOC Primer Filler, grey, is a high build primer filler for wet or dry sanding operations. With increased performance for dry sanding, without compromising the wet sanding properties, this product can be dry sanded after air-drying of three hours (two hours for wet sanding at 20 degrees Celsius). The previous product, 285-60, must be baked prior to dry sanding. The resistance to sagging is noticeably improved with the 285-60 VOC.
Enquiries, tel: (02) 8787 0100.
Portable welding power
The OrigoArc150 and OrigoTig150 are the latest portable welding machines from Esab. Weighing only 6.9 and 8.2kg respectively, these easy-to-use units are compact, robust, high performance welders designed and manufactured by Esab in Sweden, for accurate and reliable welding. These entry level units are available from Pacific Industrial Supplies, exclusive Australian distributors.
Ideal for TIG welding mild steel, stainless steel and other metals, the OrigoTig150 offers a number of features using Esab's proven inverter technology. With the choice of high frequency ignition or lift arc, the user is assured of a reliable, safe start every time. Other features include adjustable post gas and ramp-down to help avoid cracks and oxidation. The OrigoTig can also be used for MMA welding, with features that include an automatic hot start, arc force and ArcPlus, to ensure excellent weld quality using very simple settings.
A simpler machine, the OrigoArc also features Esab's inverter technology and ArcPlus for easy starting and excellent weld quality. Suitable for use with alloyed and non-alloyed steel, stainless steel and cast iron, the OrigoArc 150 can be used with electrodes of up to 3.25mm in diameter. Extremely easy to use, the OrigoArc simply features the current setting on the front panel.
A prominent carry handle is provided on the top of each unit for easy portability. The easy controls allow the user to move into position and start welding very quickly. Both units have IP23 enclosure for outdoor use and operate from single phase mains (240V) electricity.
Enquiries, tel: 1300 733 722 or (02) 9886 9524.
More Multi-Effekt pigments
OEMs have an increasing requirement for individual special-effect coating colours. To keep up with demand, Glasurit has added three new 'Multi-Effekt' tinting bases to its extensive range.
The new pigments are:
* 11-E 120 Ambergold
* 11-E 280 Bronze
* 11-E 850 Coral
These Multi-Effekt bases are very versatile and suitable for use in any Glasurit basecoat colour, regardless of whether you wish to apply the Ratio-Classic System based on Glasurit 55 Line or the Ratio-Aqua system with Glasurit 90 line water-borne basecoats.
As a result of these bases being highly concentrated with particularly high effect pigment content you only need a very small quantity to achieve the desired effect. Conveniently supplied in a special measuring bottle, these Multi-Effekt tinting bases will ensure you make the exact measurement every time.
Enquiries, tel: (02) 8787 0100.
Hamach tools now available
Peregrine Industries has announced the introduction into Australia of the Hamach Dynamic range of prestige tools specifically designed for the automotive refinish industry.
Hamach tools are designed and made in Europe and are of the highest quality. All tools come with a three year warranty -- something which Hamach says is not readily available with any other tools currently being sold in Australia.
Some of the tools in the Hamach range have unique features, including an extensive range of refinishing tools for both electric and pneumatic systems, including dust extraction units.
Peregrine Industries is proud to add the Hamach brand of tools to its already extensive range of quality products for the automotive refinish industry, incorporating the latest technology from its other leading European brands -- Filtrair, Colad, and Adtec.
Enquiries, tel: (03) 9303 9888.
Manual gun cleaner
The Drester 2600 is the complete manual gun cleaner for efficient cleaning of spray guns and other tools which have been used with conventional paints.
Drester 2600 has a wash brush which is fed with re-circulating solvent and a nozzle in the lid for rinsing with clean solvent. You can spray out the gun through a funnel in the lid and dry it with an air gun, which is fitted on the side of the machine.
The Drester 2600 is equipped with the unique Drester Teflon diaphragm pump, specifically designed for use in gun cleaners and carries a three year warranty. Automatic extraction protects the operator from hazardous fumes and improves the working environment.
The Drester 2600 meets international demands and safety regulations. The gun cleaner can be combined with the Drester recycler and docking unit RDX to the fully automatic solvent handling system, the Drester Dynamic Triple.
Enquiries, Sydney Automotive Paints & Equipment, tel: (02) 9568 2233.
IPS won't let you forget
Memory loss and therefore function loss for on-board electronic components is a constant problem in repair shops.
Customers are far from happy when they collect their vehicle only to find that the radio is dead, the clock has stopped and the electric seats won't adjust. That leads to an infuriating search for security codes.
Projecta has provided a solution with a simple, low cost device called the Interim Power Supply. For use when changing a battery, the IPS has been designed to retain the memory modes of vehicles with pre-programmed settings for digital clocks, radios, keyless entry systems and some anti-theft systems -- while the battery is disconnected.
Using a nine volt battery contained in a neat capsule with practical battery connection leads, the unit is connected to the battery terminals prior to disconnecting the vehicle battery. It provides an interim power supply for the short period of the changeover. The Projecta Interim Power Supply has a recommended retail price of $9.95 and is marketed under part no. IPS130.
Enquiries, tel: (03) 9730 6000.
For those hard to clean components
Permatex, a leading provider of automotive aftermarket products, has boosted its range of aerosol cleaners for those hard to reach components.
Permatex first introduced aerosol cleaners to meet the needs of professional technicians and mechanics.
Best known is the Permatex non-chlorinated Brake & Parts Cleaner that penetrates, dissolves and removes dirt and oil from brake systems and metal parts including CV joints, machinery, tools and farm equipment. Safe for aluminium it leaves no contaminant-attracting residue or chlorinated solvent run-off.
For industry professionals, Permatex has Pro-Strength Brake & Parts Cleaner that aggressively penetrates, dissolves and removes oil, grease and brake fluid. Pro-Strength dries fast with no residue.
For other speciality areas like removing corrosion from automotive batteries look for Permatex Battery Cleaner which goes to work in three minutes and cleans off in water. For carburettor linkages, manual and automatic chokes and baffle plates, Permatex recommends its Motor Muscle Carb & Choke cleaner which quickly cuts and removes grease, gum and varnish.
Also now available as an aerosol is Quick Orange; the spraycan equivalent of Fast Orange hand cleaner. Quick Orange is designed as an orange scented multi-purpose glass cleaner that is also effective on a wide variety of surfaces including chrome, aluminium, stainless steel and enamel. Quick Orange, says Permatex, will remove the toughest grease, dirt, smoke build-up, bugs and paint overspray.
Enquiries, tel: 1800 636 212.
Site welders meet their Master
The Kemppi Master Series of advanced MMA DC inverter power sources for welders has a level of portability making it highly suitable for uninterrupted site work.
These lightweight and portable units are ergonomically designed for mobility and are capable of performing in extreme conditions.
To eliminate the strong possibility of damaging the system's remote control on a building site or construction area, Master Series can be provided with a wireless remote control -- C 100T -- which a welder can use to preset a welding current according to selected electrode diameter and type.
Fast regulation speed and high voltage reserve give excellent welding conditions even when difficult electrodes are being used.
First class arc ignition is provided by a high open circuit voltage, controlled start current and MMA ignition pulse
As Master machines are advanced inverter power sources with reliable IGBT technology, they are assured of being lighter and smaller than what industry traditionally expects and can provide fast regulation speed, high reliability and a silent arc.
Master is available in the following model types: 2800, 2850, 3500, 5000. Each has a stepless welding current control.
Enquiries, tel:(02) 9605 9500, fax:(02) 9605 5999.
Glass removal in-house
It will enable you to remove a Ford window in 12 minutes -- an operation that usually takes over a hour. It will remove pin stripes or signs simply by passing over them. It will loosen frozen nuts. It will pop out most of a hail damage dent.
The Inductor was released in the US about six months ago and is now available in Australia through BOSs-Australia.
The Inductor works by directing heat from the machine to a remote point via an intermediate material. When passed along the edge of a windscreen, for example, it transmits heat to the metal surround, rubber and fixing compound -- which expands and softens so that the glass can be pushed out. The heat is passed via the window, but the glass itself does not get hot.
Likewise, signs or pinstripes pass heat to the metal beneath them which, through differential expansion, releases the bond which holds the pinstripe or sign on. With nuts which have frozen up through corrosion, the nut can be made to expand separately from the thread, thus freeing it.
Ray Iverson at Highland Smash Repairs in Brisbane tried out the Inductor recently and had this to say about it:
"Body moulds that have been a problem to remove in the past are now removed with the greatest of ease. No urethane is left on the panel, eliminating the need to use clean-up solvents. It eliminates the replacement of quarter windows and the moulds as they no longer need replacement. I have removed both rear and quarter glasses with no damage to moulds."
The Inductor is being sold through a network of Australian distributors and will cost about $3600.
Enquiries, tel: 0422 788 767 or email: john.smith@TheBOSs-Online.com.