The Automatic film applicator provides a reliable basis to apply coating films to test charts (max. size 515 x 300 mm / 20.28 x 11.81 in), panels or foils in a uniform and reproducible way in order to eliminate variations caused by human factors.
Reproducible
Variations in speed, pressure and direction of draw down cause irregularities. Other factors that may influence the result are the shear rate and the weight of the applicator. With the Automatic film applicator these variable factors are being stabilised. Over the complete surface the film thickness is even. Samples created with the Automatic film applicator are reproducible. It’s possible to produce a large number of identical laboratory precision draw downs in a short period of time.
Rheological properties
The quality of the applied film is important for research on rheological properties of the applied media. To prepare samples for testing rheological properties, abrasion resistance, hiding power and gloss the Automatic film applicator is a must have. Multiple types of automatic film applicators are available for either glass/paper/metal substrates or foils.
Block- and spiral applicators
All models can be used in combination with either standard block type film applicators such as bird/baker models, or spiral bar type film applicators (wire wound rod type) depending on the configuration chosen.
Unique Interface
Each Automatic Film Applicator ‘Standard’ is equiped with the Triple I ® Navigation Tool. The Triple I stands for Intelligent Illumination Interface. This unique navigation tool guides the operator through the interface of TQC Sheen lab-machines. At each step of the operating menu the interface detects which buttons are active and indicates these by means of an illuminated red centre. This results in a very intuitive operating system which is enhanced with information on the machine’s display.
Heated bed
The Automatic Film Applicator Standard with perforated heated vacuum bed has a built-in heating mat which allows the temperature of the table to be elevated up to +100°C above ambient temperature. The powerful heating device guarantees an even distribution of the temperature over the entire vacuum plate. Temperature is set and controlled by means of the Triple I ® Navigation tool
Intuitive operating by means of a completely new designed Triple i Control® interface: Intelligent Illumination Indicator. At each step of the operating menu the interface detects which buttons are active and indicates these by means of an illuminated red centre. This results in a very intuitive operating system which is enhanced with information on the machine’s display.
Increased stroke length up to 415 mm in order to coat larger panel such as scrub test panels as used in ASTM D 2486, ASTM D 4213, ISO 11998 and other scrub test methods. Bed length has been increased up to 520 mm. New application direction: from left to right instead of from back to front.
More choices of vacuum areas. Besides A3 and A4 sizes the new TQC automatic film applicator also accept A5 and ASTM D2486 scrub panels to be set digitally without the need to tape down open holes.
Larger memory to store customer setups to minimise setup time and possible setup errors.
Tool carrier height can be increased to allow coating of thicker panels / samples. 
A new, moto-driven, automatic chart clamp to secure and release test charts automatically thus speeding up workflow and enhancing ergonomics.
USB port for, amongst others, operating the machine with a full size keyboard or computer mouse. Preparations are made for further developments and remote control.
Drying Time Recorder option.
Model AB4400 has an even temperature distribution throughout the perforated heated vacuum bed.
