Precision in Motion: How Temperature Compliance Drives Automotive Excellence

Lubricant isn’t the only chemical that keeps automotive manufacturing’s wheel turning, where the difference of a degree in temperature can see production stall.

A good example of a product group that must be within a specified temperature range before it can be used are resins. Versatile, with a high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent energy absorption, and impact resistance properties, resins are well-suited to the various demands placed on modern vehicles today once they’re out on the road. But for automotive or indeed aerospace manufacturers using them in their operations, a little care must first be taken.

This is because the same hardening qualities that make resin so effective in the vehicle manufacturing process can also render the product unusable if the temperature range isn’t maintained during its storage. It’s a similar story with paint, industrial or otherwise; you only have to look in your garage after the winter and open a tin to see how the cold’s affected it. 

What difference could improved temperature compliance procedures make to your operations, and how can you adapt your site, simply and effectively, to accommodate them?

Production’s expensive enough already…

…without the added cost that unusable resins, paints, and other temperature-sensitive substances add to your operations once they have to be thrown out and replaced. 

The waste removal and processing companies you rely on to responsibly dispose of resins and paints that have solidified typically charge by volume. So more waste means more cost. There’s also the added cost of replacing these materials, which quickly adds up, particularly if your brand is known for the high quality of its products or materials and you’ve been ordering and storing them in bulk to minimise deliveries and downtime.

Speaking of which, in those cases where you actually run out of a paint colour or type of resin, wider production could be affected. Processes may need to be ramped down or halted altogether until the replacement product can be put into action. You’ll have a much better idea than me what this kind of delay could cost your operations, were it ever to come about.

Insulated storage units are a simple yet effective solution to this challenge, and the costs of waste removal and stock replenishment put the price tags associated with units of this kind into perspective. On its own, an insulated thermo container may provide the frost protection you need, and if the resin data sheet specifies a temperature threshold above which the resin must be kept, a heating system would provide you with in-storage temperature control.

“A good example of a product group that requires to be within a specified temperature range before it can be used are resins; which by their very nature are viscous and can harden and become unusable if the temperature range is not maintained.”

Certain paints or resins still contain flammable ingredients

Some paints or resins still contain flammable ingredients, making them more prone to ignition and combustion when exposed to heat, sparks, flames, or electrical equipment. These substances can pose a fire risk within a manufacturing environment due to their flammable properties and susceptibility to ignition under specific conditions. 

• Improper storage can heighten this risk. Storing large quantities of flammable paints or solvents in unventilated or congested areas increases the concentration of flammable vapours and the likelihood of ignition.
• Additionally, inadequate handling practices, such as improper dispensing, transfer, or disposal of flammable liquids can lead to spills or leaks.
• Manufacturing equipment, such as ovens, heat guns, and welding machines can all serve as ignition sources for flammable paints and resins if not properly maintained or operated. 

Mitigating this fire risk requires compliance with appropriate safety measures, including proper ventilation, fire suppression systems, static electricity control, hazard communication, training, and compliance with regulatory standards and industry best practices. 

Fire-rated units count among these measures. Constructed using fire-resistant materials and equipped with features like fire-rated walls, doors, ceilings, and ventilation systems designed to withstand exposure to fire, these units support the safe storage of flammable resins and paints. In the event of an incident, they help contain the flames and prevent the spread of fire to adjacent areas, limiting the extent of damage and reducing the risk of injuries or fatalities.

How are you driving compliance?

Lubricant isn’t the only chemical that keeps automotive manufacturing’s wheel turning, where the difference of a degree in temperature can see production stall. Resin and paint are just two examples of temperature-sensitive chemicals on which production hinges.

Where precision and efficiency are paramount, even seemingly small factors like temperature can have a significant impact on output. The implementation of temperature control measures such as insulated or fire-rated units is crucial to maintaining product integrity, production efficiency, and site safety. How are you driving compliance?

If you’re unsure about the regulations or guidance with which you should be complying, or you’d like advice around an insulated/fire-rated storage solution, get in touch today.