Abstract: Described are novel systems for electrodeposition of paint on counter-electrodes, and membrane electrode assemblies for incorporation into such systems. In certain embodiments of the invention, electrode enclosures such as C-shaped or box-shaped enclosures include membranes sealed to secondary structural members by bonding. In other embodiments, membrane electrode cells having bumpers are mounted within paint baths in a manner wherein the bumpers are forcibly biased against the exterior wall of the bath, thereby stabilizing the position of the cells. In still further embodiments, tubular electrode cells are provided with internal valves allowing the release of liquid trapped within the tubular electrodes into the membrane shell. In this manner, removal of the electrodes for maintenance, replacement or other purposes is facilitated.

Abstract: Described are novel systems for electrodeposition of paint on counter-electrodes, and membrane electrode assemblies for incorporation into such systems. In certain embodiments of the invention, electrode enclosures such as C-shaped or box-shaped enclosures include membranes sealed to secondary structural members by bonding. In other embodiments, membrane electrode cells having bumpers are mounted within paint baths in a manner wherein the bumpers are forcibly biased against the exterior wall of the bath, thereby stabilizing the position of the cells. In still further embodiments, tubular electrode cells are provided with internal valves allowing the release of liquid trapped within the tubular electrodes into the membrane shell. In this manner, removal of the electrodes for maintenance, replacement or other purposes is facilitated.

Abstract: An overload protection and control circuit and methods for electrocoat painting systems is disclosed. A resistive shunt is utilized to generate a voltage proportional to the level of current flow to electrodes in the electrocoat painting system. After amplification, the generated voltage is compared with a reference voltage. If the current exceeds a predetermined level, indicative of an overcurrent condition, a comparator causes a control circuit to disable current flow. A timer is provided to delay re-enabling of current flow for a predetermined delay interval. The control circuit may receive inputs from a control PLC or computer. The control PLC or computer may receive inputs from sensors such as a pH sensor or a membrane monitor. The control PLC or computer may selectively control the control circuit to various electrodes so as to more appropriately operate the electrocoat painting system.

Abstract: A method of electrocoat painting using tubular guarded membrane electrode cells. An object-to-be-electrocoat painted, or counter-electrode, is positioned or moved into a paint bath. Electrical current flow is induced between the membrane electrode cells and the counter-electrodes through the tubular guard, with the tubular guard having openings of a type that particularly allow for the flow of electricity between the electrode cells and the counter-electrode for a substantially continuous flow of paint particles around the membrane electrode cells. After painting, the counter-electrode is removed from the paint bath. Flushing fluid may be passed through the membrane electrode cells.

Abstract: A guard for a membrane electrode cell in an electrocoat paint system that separates the counter-electrode, the object being painted, from the membrane shell housing that surrounds the electrode, which is located inside the membrane. The guard is of a grid-like structure with openings that have rounded edges and allows for the flow of electricity between the electrode and the counter-electrode and for a substantially continuous flow of paint particles around the membrane electrode cell. The guard is made from a durable, flexible, non-conducting material that is impervious to the temperature conditions and acids, solvents and other compounds often found in electrocoating paint baths. Embodiments of the present invention include an externally affixed guard, an integral guard and a rigid membrane guard.

Abstract: A guard for a membrane electrode cell in an electrocoat paint system that separates the counter-electrode, the object being painted, from the membrane shell housing that surrounds the electrode, which is located inside the membrane. The guard is of a grid-like structure with openings that have rounded edges and allows for the flow of electricity between the electrode and the counter-electrode and for a substantially continuous flow of paint particles around the membrane electrode cell. The guard is made from a durable, flexible, non-conducting material that is impervious to the temperature conditions and acids, solvents and other compounds often found in electrocoating paint baths. Embodiments of the present invention include an externally affixed guard, an integral guard and a rigid membrane guard.