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The level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in paints is the biggest environmental issue facing the coatings industry today. Scientific research shows that the harmful effects of VOCs are significant, and the manufacture and use of paints with high VOC content is being increasingly regulated. In this article you will learn:
VOCs are chemicals found in paints to preserve them, to enhance their flow, and to create specialist properties such as resistance to corrosion. When applying paints, VOCs are released into the air as gases through the process of evaporation. Solvent-based paints, thinners and brush cleaners can contain up to 50% VOCs, while high-solid paints and water-based products contain just 8-15%.
In the presence of sunlight, VOCs can react with nitrogen oxides to produce ground level ozone and photochemical smog that contribute to atmospheric pollution. Studies show that smog is linked to increasing incidence of heart disease and certain cancers. High VOC exposure, through activities such as spray painting, can also have serious short- and long-term effects on human health. Ground level ozone is harmful to the environment too. It can result in low crop yields and cause plants to have an increased susceptibility to environmental stresses such as pests and disease.
In the UK, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations require that employers protect their workforce against the risks from VOCs found in solvents. The Health and Safety Executive can provide you with further information about the Regulations and how to comply.
The British Coatings Federation (BCF) and UK Government have been working alongside their European counterparts to develop legislation that reduces VOC emissions. The UK coatings industry must comply with the following legislation:
Ultrimax is committed to helping organisations become compliant, sustainable and efficient. We can support you to reduce your VOC consumption without compromising on quality. Here are three key ways in which we help our customers to manage their VOC emissions and comply with legislation: We manufacture a range of high-quality paints and coatings that have been specifically designed with VOC compliance in mind. These include: Ultrimax 1 Compliant- High-solid paint This all-in-one primer and gloss contains a higher ratio of solids to solvents and therefore releases fewer VOCs into the air than solvent-based products. With excellent anti-corrosion properties, it's perfect for marine and machinery applications.
Our Aquimax Primer and Primer Finish use water in place of solvents. This not only greatly reduces their VOC emissions but results in much quicker drying times too. We can support you to adopt new application methods that reduce the amount of VOC-containing product you use:
This highly efficient and cost-effective technology can reduce product wastage and overspray by up to 20%. Less paint means fewer VOC emissions too. The system produces a superior finish compared to standard spraying methods and it's suitable for both powder coating and liquid paint application.
These machines distil used solvent to produce clean, reusable solvent. They reduce your solvent purchase and disposal costs significantly, bringing you a high return on investment. In many cases, solvent recycling machines can reduce your VOC consumption levels below licensing levels. If you're a paint shop, knowing your VOC figures is essential. Part 1 of the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990 requires that you inform your local authority and apply for a permit if you exceed 5 tonnes. Permits cost almost œ2K p/a and failure to comply can result in hefty fines and litigation. Keeping track of your VOCs can be time consuming and a burden on your admin resources. We take the hassle out the process. All our invoices include details of your order's VOC figures and we can provide you with monthly reports.
If you can't find a solution, give us a calland we'll help guide you in the right direction.
Need more information before buying a booth? Our Total Paint Shop Support Team can help you with any enquiry.
Call: 01302 856666
Email: sales@ultrimaxcoatings.co.uk
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