ASTM D5066-91(2017)

Standard Test Method for Determination of the Transfer Efficiency Under Production Conditions for Spray Application of Automotive Paints—Weight Basis

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is specifically directed at the spray painting of automobile car and light duty truck bodies. The general principles are applicable to the painting of other automotive parts.  
5.2 This test method may also be used to measure transfer efficiency in full-sized painting facilities simulating production conditions and operations.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determination of the transfer efficiency (using a weight method) under production conditions for in-plant spray application of automotive paints as outlined in Section 18 of EPA 450/3-88-018.  
1.2 The transfer efficiency is calculated from the weight of the paint solids sprayed and that deposited on the painted part. The recommended approach involves painting the part directly. Also described is an alternative approach for painting parts covered with aluminum foil.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazard statements are given in 10.1.8.1.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Historical
• Publication Date: 31-May-2017
• ICS: 87.020 - Paint coating processes
• Technical Committee: D01 - Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications
• Drafting Committee: D01.55 - Factory Applied Coatings on Preformed Products

Standards Content (Sample)

NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: D5066 − 91 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Test Method for
Determination of the Transfer Efficiency Under Production
Conditions for Spray Application of Automotive Paints—
Weight Basis
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5066; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope D2369 Test Method for Volatile Content of Coatings
2.2 USEPA/MVMA (Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Associa-
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determination of
tion) Standards:
the transfer efficiency (using a weight method) under produc-
EPA 450/3-88-018 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
tion conditions for in-plant spray application of automotive
Protocol for Determining the Daily Volatile Organic
paints as outlined in Section 18 of EPA 450/3-88-018.
Compound Emission Rate of Automobile and Light Duty
1.2 The transfer efficiency is calculated from the weight of
Truck Topcoat Operations
the paint solids sprayed and that deposited on the painted part.
EPA Federal Reference Method 24 Determination of Vola-
The recommended approach involves painting the part directly.
tile Matter Content, Water Content, Density, Volume
Also described is an alternative approach for painting parts
Solids, and Weight Solids, of Surface Coatings
covered with aluminum foil.
3. Terminology
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
3.1.1 paint, n—the liquid material that is applied onto the
only.
part to cover or coat the surfaces.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.1.2 transfer effıciency, n—the ratio of the weight of paint
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
solids deposited to the total weight of paint solids used during
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
the application process, expressed as a percent.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazard
3.1.3 paint weight solids content, n—the weight of the
statements are given in 10.1.8.1.
nonvolatile materials in the liquid paint material divided by the
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
total weight of the paint, times 100, determined by Test Method
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
D2369.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.1.4 paint density, n—the mass of a unit volume of the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
liquid paint material at any given temperature, determined by
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Test Method D1475.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1.5 satellite paint supply system, n—a smaller, paint-
circulating system separate from the main production paint-
2. Referenced Documents
circulating supply system capable of supplying paint under the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
same conditions.
D1475 Test Method For Density of Liquid Coatings, Inks,
and Related Products 4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The weight of the part to be painted is determined before
and after the paint application process. The weight of liquid
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01 on Paint
and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee D01.55 on Factory Applied Coatings on Preformed Products. Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents,
Current edition approved June 1, 2017. Published June 2017. Originally 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
ɛ1
approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as D5066 – 91 (2011) . www.access.gpo.gov. Refer to EPA 450/3-88-018 dated December 1988. This
DOI: 10.1520/D5066-91R17. protocol makes reference to the determination of production spray transfer effi-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or ciency.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents,
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
the ASTM website. www.access.gpo.gov. Refer to CFR 40, Part 60, Appendix A.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5066 − 91 (2017)
paint used per part is determined from material usage and part 7.9 Measure Stick, Starret precision spring tempered, satin
processing records. The determined weight solids content of chrome finish, 91.4 cm (36 in.), with 4R graduations, or
the paint material is determined and used to calculate the paint equivalent.
solids sprayed per part. The transfer efficiency of the process is
8. Paint Usage Measurement Procedures
calculated by dividing the weight of paint solids deposited by
the weight of the paint solids sprayed.
8.1 Transfer efficiency measurement requires that accurate
measurements be made of the quantity of paint material used in
5. Significance and Use
the application process during the time period associated with
the coating of specific vehicles or parts. Two general proce-
5.1 This test method is specifically directed at the spray
dures are applicable for accurately measuring paint usage.
painting of automobile car and light duty truck bodies. The
8.1.1 The preferred procedure is to determine the weight of
general principles are applicable to the painting of other
paint used during the application study period. Under typical
automotive parts.
production conditions, such weighing may be difficult, due to
5.2 This test method may also be used to measure transfer
the large number of applicators requiring paint supply from a
efficiency in full-sized painting facilities simulating production
common tank. If a separate, isolated paint supply tank is used
conditions and operations.
in the test; it is important to control paint viscosity,
temperature, and flow rate consistent with the regular produc-
6. Interferences
tion system (see 9.1).
6.1 Limitations include the ability of the weighing device to
8.1.2 Where direct paint usage measurement by weight is
determine accurately the weight of the paint solids deposited
not practical, an alternative procedure for determining paint
on the part and the capability of accurate measurement of the
usage by volume is suggested. This procedure involves mea-
amount of paint sprayed (see Section 7).
suring the drop in paint level in the paint supply tank during the
test. To provide sufficient accuracy, it may be necessary to paint
6.2 It may be difficult to cover the surface of complex
a “block” (isolated group) of similar vehicles or parts from the
shaped parts with aluminum foil (see 11.6.11).
paint supply system while usage measurements are taken.
Typically, this may require painting approximately 30 vehicles
7. Apparatus
(see 9.2).
7.1 Tension Load Cells, with upper/lower transition pieces.
7.1.1 682-kg (1500-lb) capacity with 0.02-kg (0.05-lb) pre-
9. Paint Usage Determination by Weight Procedure
cision for weighing automobile body and support frame.
9.1 This procedure for determining paint usage during the
7.1.2 227 to 364-kg (500 to 800-lb) capacity with 0.02-kg
test is preferred when a satellite paint supply system is
(0.05-lb) precision for weighing mix tanks or automobile
available for the process to be tested. With this procedure, it is
components.
usually easier to isolate paint usage for measurement purposes,
7.1.3 A safety cable is required for upper to lower transition.
and accurate results can be obtained with a smaller number of
7.2 Electronic Digitizer/Readout, readability of 0.02 kg
vehicles or parts (see 9.1.1).
(0.05 lb) and special filtering.
9.1.1 At least 2.27 kg (5.0 lb) of paint material must be used
7.2.1 The electronic digitizer/readout shall meet OIML
during the test with the specified weighing equipment.
(International Organization of Legalized Metrology) specifica-
5 9.2 Before a satellite paint supply system can be used, it
tions.
must be demonstrated that the system is capable of supplying
7.3 Voltage Regulator.
the paint at sufficient volume and pressure to maintain normal
process conditions (fluid deliveries of the spray devices) and
7.4 Swivel Devices, as required.
that the paint can be maintained at a representative temperature
7.5 Rule and Calipers for measuring diameter of paint
and viscosity for the duration of the test period. These
supply tank shaft, etc.
requirements can best be assured by mounting the satellite tank
7.6 Sample Containers, clean and airtight for paint material.
on a load cell or scale and directly piping it into the production
supply system of the spraybooth. For this procedure the
7.7 Lifting Device and Support Frame Apparatus to lift
requirements are as follows:
body.
9.2.1 Level and calibrate a weighing device (see Section 7)
7.7.1 Total weight must not exceed capacity of load cell or
for weighing the satellite supply tank.
scale.
9.2.2 If an electronic weighing device is used, it must be
7.8 Standard Calibration Weight, approximately 0.9 kg (2
turned on long enough to achieve stability, following the
lb).
manufacturer’s directions. All weighing devices must be situ-
ated to minimize disturbance from vibration or air movement.
9.2.3 Introduce the paint material, reduced to spraying
The sole source of supply of the electronic digitizer, Model 5322, known to the
viscosity, into the tank to be weighed. Before the test is
committee at this time is Sterling Scale Co., 20950 Boening, Southfield, MI 48075.
conducted, be certain that fluid flows are properly set, that all
If you are aware of alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM
supply and return lines are filled with the paint, and that no
International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a
meeting of the responsible technical committee, which you may attend. leaks are present in the piping system.
D5066 − 91 (2017)
9.2.4 Shut off the agitator to minimize vibration during the 10.1.6 Record the tank levels before and after the test. Take
weighing of the system. the initial reading just prior to the first test vehicle or part of the
9.2.5 Calibrate the weighing device in accordance with block that enters the first application station in the tested
manufacturer’s instructions. Weigh and tare a lifting frame, if process. Take the final reading just after the last vehicle or part
used to support the satellite paint supply tank. has left the last application area in the tested process.
9.2.6 Weigh the satellite paint supply tank before the test 10.1.7 With clearcoat (or other paint materials that cannot
vehicles or parts are run. Flexible connections are required to be isolated to a specific block of cars due to other connected
minimize strain. Carefully note the configuration of the tank so operations such as repair), take the initial reading as the first
that the same configuration is used for both initial and the final vehicle or part in the test block enters the first station applying
weighing (that is, hose connections, height, etc.). Weigh the clearcoat. Take the final reading when the vehicle after the last
tank until 2 consecutive measurements are obtained within the job in the test block enters the first station, applying clearcoat
measurement error of the weighing system 60.02 kg (0.05 lb). (the same point at which the initial reading was taken). If this
Average the two readings. The satellite tank may be left on the is not done, the block size for clearcoat will be different from
weighing device during the painting operation to monitor the block size for basecoat (this is acceptable but must be
painting usage on a continuous basis. accurately reflected in the calculations).
9.2.7 After painting the test vehicles or parts, reweigh the 10.1.8 The measurements are to be taken to the nearest 1.6
1 1
satellite paint supply tank in accordance with 9.2.5 and 9.2.6. mm ( ⁄16 in.) with a measuring stick with 1.6 mm ( ⁄16-in.) or
9.2.8 Obtain representative paint samples immediately after less graduations. Measurements are made from the top of the
completion of the test for solids and density analysis. tank to the top of the liquid level at least 7.6 to 10.2 cm (3 to
4 in.) from the sides of the tank. The top of the tank is to be
10. Paint Usage Determination by Tank Level
determined by laying a straight edge across the top of the tank
Measurement (Volume Procedure)
in the same position for each measurement.
10.1 This procedure for determining the paint usage re-
10.1.8.1 Warning—Any measuring instruments used in this
quires that the drop in the liquid level in the system supply tank
procedure must be effectively grounded before contacting the
be measured accurately. This procedure is applicable with
coating tank or coating liquid surface. Review all measuring
either a satellite system or a main-mix room supply system. A
instruments for suitability and resistance to the paint solvents
sufficient number of parts must be processed in the test block
prior to the test.
to provide at least a 7.6-cm (3-in.) drop in the liquid level in the
10.1.9 It may be necessary to provide two-way radio com-
paint supply tank. Careful measurement is critical to the overall
munication between the mix-room monitor and the tested
accuracy of the transfer efficiency test. This procedure consists
process operation to coordinate the measurement process and
of the following:
timing.
10.1.1 Accurately measure the inside diameter of the paint
10.1.10 Obtain representative paint samples immediately
supply tank(s) to be used for the various test materials. If the
after completion of the test for density and solids determina-
agitator shafts, fill pipes, or any other objects are located in the
tions.
measurement zone, the occupied volume of these items must
11. Paint Solids Deposited Measurement Procedure
be determined and subtracted from the total volume. Careful
selection of the section of the tank for the test measurement
11.1 To determine the transfer efficiency, it is necessary to
will minimize the difficulty of this task. The measurements are
determine both the weight of paint solids sprayed per vehicle or
used to develop a conversion factor between level drop and
part
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
´1
Designation: D5066 − 91 (Reapproved 2011) D5066 − 91 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Test Method for
Determination of the Transfer Efficiency Under Production
Conditions for Spray Application of Automotive Paints—
Weight Basis
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5066; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
ε NOTE—Editorial corrections were made in Equations 1 and 3 in September 2013.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determination of the transfer efficiency (using a weight method) under production
conditions for in-plant spray application of automotive paints as outlined in Section 18 of EPA 450/3-88-018.
1.2 The transfer efficiency is calculated from the weight of the paint solids sprayed and that deposited on the painted part. The
recommended approach involves painting the part directly. Also described is an alternative approach for painting parts covered
with aluminum foil.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. Specific hazard statements are given in 10.1.8.1.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D1475 Test Method For Density of Liquid Coatings, Inks, and Related Products
D2369 Test Method for Volatile Content of Coatings
2.2 USEPA/MVMA (Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association) Standards:
EPA 450/3-88-018 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Protocol for Determining the Daily Volatile Organic Compound
Emission Rate of Automobile and Light Duty Truck Topcoat Operations
EPA Federal Reference Method 24 Determination of Volatile Matter Content, Water Content, Density, Volume Solids, and
Weight Solids, of Surface Coatings
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 paint, n—the liquid material that is applied onto the part to cover or coat the surfaces.
3.1.2 transfer effıciency, n—the ratio of the weight of paint solids deposited to the total weight of paint solids used during the
application process, expressed as a percent.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01 on Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee D01.55 on Factory Applied Coatings on Preformed Products.
Current edition approved June 1, 2011June 1, 2017. Published June 2011June 2017. Originally approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 20052011 as
ɛ1
D5066 – 91 (2005).(2011) . DOI: 10.1520/D5066-91R11E01.10.1520/D5066-91R17.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
www.access.gpo.gov. Refer to EPA 450/3-88-018 dated December 1988. This protocol makes reference to the determination of production spray transfer efficiency.
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
www.access.gpo.gov. Refer to CFR 40, Part 60, Appendix A.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5066 − 91 (2017)
3.1.3 paint weight solids content, n—the weight of the nonvolatile materials in the liquid paint material divided by the total
weight of the paint, times 100, determined by Test Method D2369.
3.1.4 paint density, n—the mass of a unit volume of the liquid paint material at any given temperature, determined by Test
Method D1475.
3.1.5 satellite paint supply system, n—a smaller, paint-circulating system separate from the main production paint-circulating
supply system capable of supplying paint under the same conditions.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The weight of the part to be painted is determined before and after the paint application process. The weight of liquid paint
used per part is determined from material usage and part processing records. The determined weight solids content of the paint
material is determined and used to calculate the paint solids sprayed per part. The transfer efficiency of the process is calculated
by dividing the weight of paint solids deposited by the weight of the paint solids sprayed.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is specifically directed at the spray painting of automobile car and light duty truck bodies. The general
principles are applicable to the painting of other automotive parts.
5.2 This test method may also be used to measure transfer efficiency in full-sized painting facilities simulating production
conditions and operations.
6. Interferences
6.1 Limitations include the ability of the weighing device to determine accurately the weight of the paint solids deposited on
the part and the capability of accurate measurement of the amount of paint sprayed (see Section 7).
6.2 It may be difficult to cover the surface of complex shaped parts with aluminum foil (see 11.6.11).
7. Apparatus
7.1 Tension Load Cells, with upper/lower transition pieces.
7.1.1 682-kg (1500-lb) capacity with 0.02-kg (0.05-lb) precision for weighing automobile body and support frame.
7.1.2 227 to 364-kg (500 to 800-lb) capacity with 0.02-kg (0.05-lb) precision for weighing mix tanks or automobile
components.
7.1.3 A safety cable is required for upper to lower transition.
7.2 Electronic Digitizer/Readout, readability of 0.02 kg (0.05 lb) and special filtering.
7.2.1 The electronic digitizer/readout shall meet OIML (International Organization of Legalized Metrology) specifications.
7.3 Voltage Regulator.
7.4 Swivel Devices, as required.
7.5 Rule and Calipers for measuring diameter of paint supply tank shaft, etc.
7.6 Sample Containers, clean and airtight for paint material.
7.7 Lifting Device and Support Frame Apparatus to lift body.
7.7.1 Total weight must not exceed capacity of load cell or scale.
7.8 Standard Calibration Weight, approximately 0.9 kg (2 lb).
7.9 Measure Stick, Starret precision spring tempered, satin chrome finish, 91.4 cm (36 in.), with 4R graduations, or equivalent.
8. Paint Usage Measurement Procedures
8.1 Transfer efficiency measurement requires that accurate measurements be made of the quantity of paint material used in the
application process during the time period associated with the coating of specific vehicles or parts. Two general procedures are
applicable for accurately measuring paint usage.
8.1.1 The preferred procedure is to determine the weight of paint used during the application study period. Under typical
production conditions, such weighing may be difficult, due to the large number of applicators requiring paint supply from a
common tank. If a separate, isolated paint supply tank is used in the test; it is important to control paint viscosity, temperature,
and flow rate consistent with the regular production system (see 9.1).
The sole source of supply of the electronic digitizer, Model 5322, known to the committee at this time is Sterling Scale Co., 20950 Boening, Southfield, MI 48075. If
you are aware of alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting
of the responsible technical committee, which you may attend.
D5066 − 91 (2017)
8.1.2 Where direct paint usage measurement by weight is not practical, an alternative procedure for determining paint usage by
volume is suggested. This procedure involves measuring the drop in paint level in the paint supply tank during the test. To provide
sufficient accuracy, it may be necessary to paint a “block” (isolated group) of similar vehicles or parts from the paint supply system
while usage measurements are taken. Typically, this may require painting approximately 30 vehicles (see 9.2).
9. Paint Usage Determination by Weight Procedure
9.1 This procedure for determining paint usage during the test is preferred when a satellite paint supply system is available for
the process to be tested. With this procedure, it is usually easier to isolate paint usage for measurement purposes, and accurate
results can be obtained with a smaller number of vehicles or parts (see 9.1.1).
9.1.1 At least 2.27 kg (5.0 lb) of paint material must be used during the test with the specified weighing equipment.
9.2 Before a satellite paint supply system can be used, it must be demonstrated that the system is capable of supplying the paint
at sufficient volume and pressure to maintain normal process conditions (fluid deliveries of the spray devices) and that the paint
can be maintained at a representative temperature and viscosity for the duration of the test period. These requirements can best
be assured by mounting the satellite tank on a load cell or scale and directly piping it into the production supply system of the
spraybooth. For this procedure the requirements are as follows:
9.2.1 Level and calibrate a weighing device (see Section 7) for weighing the satellite supply tank.
9.2.2 If an electronic weighing device is used, it must be turned on long enough to achieve stability, following the
manufacturer’smanufacturer’s directions. All weighing devices must be situated to minimize disturbance from vibration or air
movement.
9.2.3 Introduce the paint material, reduced to spraying viscosity, into the tank to be weighed. Before the test is conducted, be
certain that fluid flows are properly set, that all supply and return lines are filled with the paint, and that no leaks are present in
the piping system.
9.2.4 Shut off the agitator to minimize vibration during the weighing of the system.
9.2.5 Calibrate the weighing device in accordance with manufacturer’smanufacturer’s instructions. Weigh and tare a lifting
frame, if used to support the satellite paint supply tank.
9.2.6 Weigh the satellite paint supply tank before the test vehicles or parts are run. Flexible connections are required to minimize
strain. Carefully note the configuration of the tank so that the same configuration is used for both initial and the final weighing
(that is, hose connections, height, etc.). Weigh the tank until 2 consecutive measurements are obtained within the measurement
error of the weighing system 60.02 kg (0.05 lb). Average the two readings. The satellite tank may be left on the weighing device
during the painting operation to monitor painting usage on a continuous basis.
9.2.7 After painting the test vehicles or parts, reweigh the satellite paint supply tank in accordance with 9.2.5 and 9.2.6.
9.2.8 Obtain representative paint samples immediately after completion of the test for solids and density analysis.
10. Paint Usage Determination by Tank Level Measurement (Volume Procedure)
10.1 This procedure for determining the paint usage requires that the drop in the liquid level in the system supply tank be
measured accurately. This procedure is applicable with either a satellite system or a main-mix room supply system. A sufficient
number of parts must be processed in the test block to provide at least a 7.6-cm (3-in.) drop in the liquid level in the paint supply
tank. Careful measurement is critical to the overall accuracy of the transfer efficiency test. This procedure consists of the following:
10.1.1 Accurately measure the inside diameter of the paint supply tank(s) to be used for the various test materials. If the agitator
shafts, fill pipes, or any other objects are located in the measurement zone, the occupied volume of these items must be determined
and subtracted from the total volume. Careful selection of the section of the tank for the test measurement will minimize the
difficulty of this task. The measurements are used to develop a conversion factor between level drop and volume of paint.
10.1.2 Most main paint supply systems consist of two tanks connected together to maintain the material supply. During the test,
the paint supply tank must be isolated. Check to ensure that there is no leakage or overflow between the two tanks and that the
directional valves for paint return function properly. Make sure that these checks are made just prior to and after the test, and are
done by measuring the volume in both tanks.
10.1.3 Place the test paint, which has been reduced to spraying viscosity, into the paint supply tank to be measured. No material
additions or reductions may be made to the tank during the test. Before the test is conducted, make certain that valving is set so
that paint is being drawn from the test tank and returned to the test tank, and that all air has been removed from the delivery system.
10.1.4 With satellite paint supply tank systems, special care must be taken to ensure that all fluid lines are completely filled.
10.1.5 Prior to taking the volume measurement, turn off any agitation within the tank that will interfere with the measuring
process and then turn it back on after the measurement.
10.1.6 Record the tank levels before and after the test. Take the initial reading just prior to the first test vehicle or part of the
block that enters the first application station in the tested process. Take the final reading just after the last vehicle or part has left
the last application area in the tested process.
10.1.7 With clearcoat (or other paint materials that cannot be isolated to a specific block of cars due to other connected
operations such as repair), take the initial reading as the first vehicle or part in the test block e
...