Vacuum drying method
OwnerThomas Brian Laviolette, Jessica Lynn Lavioletteinventors
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Abstract
A vacuum drying apparatus and method to dry and cure paint is disclosed. The method provides a substantially particle free environment that shortens drying time, reduces cost and improves surface finish. The apparatus includes an enclosed drying tunnel that is maintained at a reduced pressure relative to ambient conditions. Heat lamps with the drying tunnel aid in curing and provide the desired particle free environment.
Claims12
A method or drying paint applied to a painted article, comprising the steps of:
- controlling a first pressure within the enclosure by drawing air from within the enclosure through a first outlet and preventing air from entering the enclosure through any opening within the enclosure such that the first pressure within the enclosure is lower than a second pressure outside the enclosure;
- and
- maintaining the first pressure within the enclosure to provide a selected time to dry paint applied to the painted article.
The method as recited in claim 2, wherein said step of controlling a pressure within the enclosure includes generating a vacuum within the enclosure relative to a pressure outside of the enclosure and preventing air outside the enclosure from entering the enclosure.
A paint drying assembly for curing a painted article comprising:
- an enclosure that is sealed from conditions exterior to the enclosure for isolating a painted article;
- at least one vacuum pump for generating a vacuum within the enclosure, wherein the enclosure includes a first outlet for exhausting air from within the enclosure and preventing air from entering the enclosure;
- and
- at least one heat lamp for directing heat toward the painted article.
The assembly as recited in claim 19, wherein the painted article comprises an automobile body assembly.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.