Reducing Environmental Impact through Coating Efficiency

ESG

In response to curbing emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) for air pollution control and in light of reducing manufacturing costs, Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCM) is working on lowering paint usage by improving coating efficiency.

Since our construction machinery consists of parts varying in size, the items for coating are also diverse. In coating, variations in coating efficiency occurred due to environmental conditions and individual differences in an operator’s skill. Therefore, applying the concept of a counterweight, we carried out research and study focused on transfer efficiency to promote the optimization of coating conditions, robotization, and the like. Consequently, we were able to lower paint usage by 11% on the amount applied until now.

We will continue to pursue further improvements and increase coating efficiency while implementing reductions in VOC and related environmental impacts.

Transfer efficiency measurement tests for aluminum foil applied to the counterweight (before coating) Transfer efficiency measurement tests for aluminum foil applied to the counterweight (before coating)
The counterweight after coating was performed. Next, the paint that transferred to the aluminum foil is weighed. The counterweight after coating was performed. Next, the paint that transferred to the aluminum foil is weighed.