Page 46 - Australasian Paint & Panel magazine September-October 2022

Market intelligence EVs
46
PAINT&PANEL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022
EV HEADS UP FROM AXALTA
ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS) ARE CERTAINLY BECOMING MORE POPULAR ON OUR ROADS, AND WHILE SOME BODYSHOPS MIGHT NOT WANT TO UNDERTAKE EV REPAIRS JUST YET, IF YOU DO DECIDE TO TAKE THEM ON, AXALTA HAVE PUT TOGETHER A LIST OF SOME THINGS YOU SHOULD KEEP IN MIND.
lower temperatures, but also outstand- ing results and reduced energy con- sumption. Using this technology, drying is possible at 40oC or even 20oC. You will find this technology in products within the Standox, Spies Hecker and Cromax ranges.
IMPLEMENT EV SOPS
All staff working on EV vehicles should understand the safety implications of working on EVs. Before taking on EV re- pairs, your bodyshop should have docu- mented procedures in place for intake and work on EVs, and all staff should be appropriately trained.
To assist repairers, Axalta has cap- tured its repair recommendations in a “working on an EV” poster. You can download your copy at www.axalta. com.au/e-mobility
WHEN REPAIRING EVS, TECHNICIANS
should follow a safety-first approach be- fore undertaking any part of the repair. In the first instance, and very important- ly, ensure the charging cable is not con- nected and the battery is disconnected, so that the power cannot be accidentally switched on during the repair. Once the repair is started, it is important to ensure high-voltage PPE is worn and worn cor- rectly at every stage of the repair.
FOLLOW OEM PROCEDURES
Each OEM will have different guidelines to follow when it comes to EV repairs. The guidelines should be followed to en- sure each vehicle is repaired correctly and safely. A great habit to get into is to physically have the OEM guidelines next to you when completing the repair.
Prior to the commencement of a re- pair, a full assessment of the battery should be carried out by a trained tech- nician so that any unforeseen damage to the high voltage battery or cabling is picked up and dealt with.
While the vehicle is live, it is important to ensure high-voltage PPE is worn and worn correctly, however once it is pow- ered down, normal PPE can be worn.
WORK AT LOWER TEMPERATURES
When it comes to the refinishing process, drying at low temperatures is particularly important, due to the nature of sensitive electrics and batteries (and even tyres). In some cases, lowering the windows is ad- vised to avoid heat build-up. As each car manufacturer has its own upper tempera-
ture limit that must be adhered to, it is es- sential that refinishers familiarise them- selves with the manufacturer’s specific recommendations at the start of the re- pair. As a general recommendation, dry- ing temperature must stay below 60oC and cannot exceed 45 minutes.
CHOOSE SUITABLE PRODUCTS
Axalta’s patented fast cure, low energy technology is ideal for EV repairs. Not only does it offer faster drying times at
RIGHT: You can download this comprehensive safety poster from the Axalta website.
© 2021 Axalta Coating Systems. All rights reserved.
50°
60°
70°
45 min
40°
80°
30 min
WORKING ON AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)?
BEFORE YOU START:
1. Assessment 2. Classification
Only qualified personnel are permitted to work on HV vehicles.
• Observe country specific electric vehicle safety regulations (e.g. DGVU 209-93) • Observe the specifications of the respective vehicle manufacturer**
3. Risk assessment
Check for: 4. 1. Evidence of fire 5. 2. Detectable sparks, smoke or steam 6. 3. Noise from battery, e.g. crackling 7.
Acrid odour
Fluid leaks from or in battery
Severe mechanical damage to battery Continuous temperature measurement (<60°C)
• Vehicle pre-check measurement technology: Release for repair? Yes/No. • Visual inspection: Release for repair? Yes/no.
4. Repair release
Decide:
• Send the vehicle to the workshop*
• Vehicle must be placed in a quarantine area
WHILE SPRAYING:
1. Preliminary work
• Only qualified personnel should drive the vehicle (e.g. in the workshop)
• Work on voltage-free bodies (body/mechanics/paint) can now be carried out by qualified personnel
Observe vehicle manufacturer current specifications for loading, lifting and manoeuvring**
2. Painting/prep 3. Painting/drying 4. Reassembly
• Battery temperature: <30°C. • Battery charge status: min 45%
• Remove ignition key (do not switch on aircon system)
• Lower the windows to avoid heat build-up
Observe the specifications of the vehicle manufacturer**
ON COMPLETION:
Finishing
Handover to customer
Must be done by qualified personnel.
Charging battery and manoeuvring must be done by qualified personnel. ** Vehicle manufacturer specifications must always be up-to-date
Observe vehicle manufacturer specifications**
*
Only after instruction by a qualified person
REMEMBER!
THESE ARE THINGS YOU NEED TO THINK ABOUT...
General Recommendation: drying temperature must stay below 60°C and cannot exceed 45 min. If in doubt, contact the vehicle manufacturer for detailed information.
• Only qualified personnel may work on EVs
• Only trained personnel (according to local requirements)
• Comply with general EV safety rules:
• Ensure that the vehicle cannot be switched on accidentally
• Check there is no electrical charge or load
Classify as one of the following:
• Electric vehicle HV • Fuel cell vehicle
• Hybrid
Vehicle can be repaired without risk Vehicle cannot be released
• HV system can only be deactivated for the pending repair work by a qualified person
If possible, use Xtreme System. Drying temperature must stay below 60°C and cannot exceed 45 min.
Assembly work after painting must be done by qualified personnel. Recommissioning and acceptance only by qualified personnel.
should de/reactivate high voltage
• Observe country specific electric vehicle safety regulations
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE):
• Insulating gloves DIN 60903 Class 0
• Face shield IEC 61582-1-2
• Safety glasses EN 166
(e.g. DGVU 209-93)
• Make sure cabin temperature is set correctly –
use an I.R. thermometer to check
• Do not exceed baking time and temperature
• Safety shoes with electrically insulating soles EN 20345
•••