Abstract: This invention teaches that the use of electron beam equipment and modified acrylic unsaturated coating compositions for free radical curing will reduce energy consumption for coating the exterior surface of tubing. The faster rate of polymerization of this coating composition allows for the replacement of a conventional oven or induction heater unit with an electron beam unit requiring much less floor space and generating much less heat. Pigmented coatings formulated according to this invention can be cured with an electron beam more efficiently than light radiation equipment and will meet the commercial coating requirements established by tube coaters. The application of the above specified type liquid coatings involves reduced maintenance costs and labor to operate as compared to powder coating systems and light radiation curing equipment.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 25, 2000
Date of Patent:
October 23, 2001
Assignee:
Polymeric Processes Inc.
Inventors:
John W. Maddox, Brian L. Maddox, Michael E. Winters