Defoaming Challenges in Robotic Arm Waterborne Coatings

In robotic arm coating applications, waterborne coatings require high flowability and thick spray layers, often leading to microfoams and pinholes that cause film shrinkage and poor adhesion. A leading robot manufacturer reported bubble retention in their water-based epoxy primer during automated spraying, resulting in 12% rework due to 0.1–0.5 mm "volcano" defects after curing.

Chemi Tech’s Targeted Solution:

KM-1802 achieves three breakthroughs:

Synergistic modified silicone & hydrophobic particles: C8–C22 alkyl-modified silicone oil combined with hydrophobic silica (particle size ≤5 μm) rapidly bursts foam films and suppresses rebound.

High-temperature stability: Maintains efficiency in 60°C–90°C baking and pH 10–14 alkaline systems.

Self-emulsifying technology: Direct addition without dilution prevents stratification, ensuring compatibility with acrylic/epoxy resins.

Case Study:

Adding 0.3% KM-1802(0.2% during initial dispersion + 0.1% in adjustment phase) delivered:

90% reduction in bubble residues and zero shrinkage holes;

Stable Stormer viscosity (50KU±2 after 30 days at 50°C);

15% higher spraying line efficiency with annual savings exceeding ¥260,000.

Deployed in 3 industrial robot manufacturers, compatible with waterborne polyurethane, acrylic, and more.