Q: We are in the process of establishing an assembly plant in South Africa. Can an e-coated vehicle shell (body) be shipped overseas and painted at the destination? If so, what would the processes be to implement something like this (i.e., paintshop)?
A: Indeed, this process is quite feasible. In fact, it is a very good idea. It would be essential to thoroughly clean and prepare the electrocoated surface before applying the next coating. You would need to clean the surface to remove any soils deposited during transit and handling.
A simple alkaline cleaner followed by a tap water rinse and then a deionized water rinse should suffice. Sufficient drying before the next coating is applied would be the final step. This will provide a clean surface that will readily accept a powder coating.