HIROSHIMA: A few days after Carsifu
wrote about new ABB RB1000i-S paint atomiser, Mazda has announced it has bought and installed a number of them at its Japanese plant.
The atomisers at its Ujina plant will help it accelerates efforts to achieve carbon neutrality in its global production facilities by 2035.
The advanced atomisers, which began operation earlier this year, reduce paint usage by improving transfer efficiency to the vehicle body and minimising overspray. This has resulted in a 17% reduction in paint usage, saving 30,000 litres of paint annually.
Mazda, which produces the CX-5 and MX-5 at the Ujina facility, reports that 60% of its manufacturing CO2 emissions come from the painting process. The new technology reduces emissions by cutting compressed air consumption, lowering volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions, and decreasing energy use in the paint booth.
ABB Robotics’ Automotive Business Line managing director Joerg Reger said the atomisers achieve up to 95-99% efficiency, reducing paint costs and environmental impact. Mazda has also integrated the atomisers into existing robots, further enhancing cost savings and contributing to circular economy efforts.
The RB1000i-S atomisers are part of ABB's strategy to provide sustainable solutions for the automotive industry. The company aims to cover 80% of its product portfolio with its Circularity Approach by 2030, ensuring upgrades maximise performance and extend the lifespan of existing equipment.
