Development of a novel instrument for use in electrostatic powder coating processes

This paper describes the development of a diagnostic instrument capable of evaluating the electrical parameters vital in ensuring optimised performance of electrostatic powder coating. The kit consists of an electrometer, Faraday cup and high voltage detector probe and is capable of measuring the electric charge on the powder, the gun voltage at the corona point and the current flow to the workpiece, all of which are critical parameters affecting plant performance. It is also capable of detecting the onset and severity of the very important phenomenon of back ionization.