PPG has shared details on its launch of new software and a wireless device that they say would improve shop efficiency and cut back on paint remixes through automated processes.

The software, called PPG LINQ, uses the company’s cloud-based platform and its interconnected digital hardware, software, and related services along with MagicBox, the new wireless device, to mix paint. PPG says the new tools also extend to smaller body shops not previously served by the PPG LINQ solution.

PPG Global Digital Business Services Director Beppe Casalini told Repairer Driven News body shop painters start out the process by connecting a standard mixing scale to PPG’s MagicBox wireless device, which is equipped with sensors to automatically detect shop humidity and temperature.

“PPG MagicBox can be placed in the shop to recommend the right primers and clears for the relevant conditions — along with the correct ratio and combination,” Casalini said. “The painter can then make color selections in the PPG LINQ Color software and send them directly to PPG MagicBox to quickly complete the mix without needing a separate large computer.”

Traditionally, this would be done manually. PPG’s combination of technologies eliminates having to account for humidity and temperature data manually, check technical datasheets, and define the proper product and dilation for those specific conditions, he added.

Painters won’t have to use spray-out cards either and less rework reduces waste, according to PPG.

“PPG LINQ Color and PPG MagicBox are ideal for a number of body shop environments,” Casalini said. “They would be particularly appropriate for a body shop looking to increase color match accuracy, reduce processing time, and instantly account for the impact of humidity and temperature in a paint mix while creating a more streamlined mixing environment with less clutter and wires.”

PPG Automotive Refinish Senior Vice President Chancey Hagerty said when LINQ is used with PPG paint products, body shop owners can realize a 15% key-to-key productivity improvement.

“From the time a customer leaves their key with a body shop until they return to collect their car, that body shop can achieve improved productivity, reduced waste and enhanced sustainability compared to a traditional repair approach,” he said.

The PPG MoonWalk system also automated paint mixing. It was launched in 2019.

“Today, thousands of body shops around the globe already use the PPG MoonWalk, PPG VisualizID, and PPG DigiMatch tools,” said Alban d’Epenoux, PPG Automotive Refinish global marketing director. “The addition of PPG LINQ Color software and the PPG MagicBox device can also mean additional productivity and enhanced capabilities for those existing users and also for thousands of other body shops interested in adopting the best digital solutions to enhance their business performance.”

When RDN asked PPG for pricing, PPG said the tools vary based on specific shop needs and existing infrastructure so those interested can reach out to a PPG sales representative for details. More information about LINQ is available at ppglinq.com.

In May, Axalta Coating Systems announced its version of automated painting equipment — the Axalta Irus Mix. It uses a three-step system (scan, find, mix) to deliver “highly accurate” color while eliminating the need for manual mixing, Axalta said.

Axalta estimated at that time that body shops would save more than 60% in labor by using the machine, compared to manual mixing and maintenance.

Images

Featured image: PPG’s MagicBox wireless device. (Provided by PPG)