Abstract: A method of operating a finishing system includes providing a plurality of stations along a frame in a process direction, each station configured to receive and treat a load. A latent coating material is suspended in a liquid provided in an immersion station. A power supply generates electrical charge to the frame and the liquid. A hoist moves along the process direction and into register with the immersion station, the hoist including an electrically conductive lifting chain and an electrically conductive sprocket meshed with the lifting chain. The power supply and the sprocket are electrically communicated through the hoist. The load is connected to the lifting chain and immersed in the liquid. A path of conduction is established between the sprocket and the load solely through the lifting chain. Electrophoretic deposition of the coating material onto the load is driven through the electrical charge generated by the power supply.

Abstract: A finishing system includes a frame that includes a bath station configured to communicate with an electrode. A hoist supported by the frame is movable into register with the bath station to establish electrical communication between the hoist and a current generated by a power source. The current drives deposition of a coating onto a load carried by the hoist. A drive assembly of the system is supported by the hoist and is operable to rotate a sprocket. The drive assembly includes a rotary conductor electrically coupled to the sprocket and configured to come into electrical communication with the frame. An electrically conductive lifting chain is operable through rotation of the sprocket to lower the load into the bath station. The frame communicates current from the power source to the rotary conductor, and the lifting chain communicates current from the rotary conductor to the load.

Abstract: A finishing system includes a frame that includes a bath station configured to communicate with an electrode. A hoist supported by the frame is movable into register with the bath station to establish electrical communication between the hoist and a current generated by a power source. The current drives deposition of a coating onto a load carried by the hoist. A drive assembly of the system is supported by the hoist and is operable to rotate a sprocket. The drive assembly includes a rotary conductor electrically coupled to the sprocket and configured to come into electrical communication with the frame. An electrically conductive lifting chain is operable through rotation of the sprocket to lower the load into the bath station. The frame communicates current from the power source to the rotary conductor, and the lifting chain communicates current from the rotary conductor to the load.

Abstract: An e-coat line includes a frame supporting a process track configured to extend along a process direction, a workpiece rack moveably supported on the frame, and a plurality of electrodes supported on an electrode rack. The rack includes support members configured to hold a plurality of hollow workpieces in a predetermined arrangement, and the workpiece rack is moveable relative to the frame between a raised position and a lowered position. The plurality of electrodes are supported on the electrode rack in a predetermined arrangement complementary to the predetermined arrangement of the plurality of hollow workpieces on the support members.