Modeling of paint flow rate flux for elliptical paint sprays by using experimental paint thickness distributions

Purpose – Aims to experimental determination of paint flow rate flux for elliptical paint sprays. Paint flow rate flux distribution is necessary for computer simulation of the spray painting process. Design/methodology/approach – Different painting strokes at different spray distances and painting velocities are made on flat surfaces by using paint sprays with elliptical spray areas. Then, thickness measurements are made across the strokes after the paint dries out completely. Thickness distributions are used for determination of the paint flow rate flux distribution by making use of the developed formulation and algorithm. Findings – Finds that it is possible to determine the paint flow rate flux for elliptical paint sprays by making use of the painting strokes made on flat surfaces at different spray distances and painting velocities. Practical implications – Computer simulation of the spray painting process for elliptical paint sprays is made possible. Simulation software for circular paint sprays has been developed previously by the authors. Originality/value – Paint flow rate flux distribution is necessary for computer simulation of the spray painting process. Such simulation software has been developed previously by the authors.