Quick color change powder coating system

Abstract

Systems and methods for applying powder coating materials in electrostatic spray systems are provided. For example, a gravity feed of recovered powder coating from the recovery system to the feed system is disclosed. In addition, a powder feed system is disclosed wherein a powder suction lance assembly has only two operable positions, a first for feeding powder from a fluidized hopper and also corresponding to a purge position for a novel purge manifold, and a second retracted position for powder color changes and servicing. Also, a pump assembly block in physical communication with an air line attachment plate, a suction tube plate, and a hose manifold is disclosed. A plurality of attachment members removably attach the air attachment plate, a suction tube plate, and the hose manifold plate to the pump assembly block. Method for applying a first powder color and a second powder color in a powder feed center are also provided. The one method includes, among other things, the step of replacing a first pump assembly and with a second pump assembly that is in fluid communication with the one or more spray devices. The second pump assembly may be a new, previously cleaned, or color dedicated pump assembly. So configured, the present invention reduces the amount of time required for a powder color change in an electrostatic spray system and reduces color cross-contamination effects involved when changing between powder colors. Powder contacting surfaces are reduced, as well.