초록 ▼

In the method and system of the instant invention, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) liberated in the course of solvent-based painting of a workpiece, are recovered. The atmosphere within a closed spray-booth is maintained at a fixed humidity such that vaporized water, supplied in the form of steam

In the method and system of the instant invention, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) liberated in the course of solvent-based painting of a workpiece, are recovered. The atmosphere within a closed spray-booth is maintained at a fixed humidity such that vaporized water, supplied in the form of steam or nebulized water vapor, acts as a carrier for VOCs liberated in the course of spray painting or heat curing of a workpiece. The VOCs may be recovered continuously, including during the spray-painting or heat curing of the workpiece. The VOC laden, humidified air is circulated through a condenser such that VOCs dissolved in the water vapor condense and are directed to a recovery means. The water and solvent are separated, recovered and purified for re-use or placed in an appropriate container for disposal, thereby eliminating the usual practice of expelling VOC laden air into the atmosphere. The system is provided with a flame-free heat source to cure the painted workpiece and to guard against the danger of explosion.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A closed system for volatile organic compound recycling, comprising a sealed spray-booth, at least one air recirculation housing, and a water decontamination unit, wherein air is continually recirculated within said spray booth through an air vent system attached to said air recirculation housing

1. A closed system for volatile organic compound recycling, comprising a sealed spray-booth, at least one air recirculation housing, and a water decontamination unit, wherein air is continually recirculated within said spray booth through an air vent system attached to said air recirculation housing, and said air recirculation housing comprises a mean for removing particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOC) from said recirculated air, such that said VOCs are condensed into a contaminated water solution and transferred, through an inlet tube, into said water decontamination unit, wherein said water decontamination unit comprises a means for removing said VOCs from said contaminated water solution and a clean water solution is transferred, through an outlet tube, from said water decontamination unit to an upper fill compartment for reintroduction into said system, wherein said air recirculation housing comprises an air inlet and air outlet, wherein a contaminated air flow enters said air recirculation housing through said air inlet, and a clean air flow exists said air recirculation housing through said air outlet, said air recirculation housing comprises a means for inserting a filter into said air outlet, such that when a person is within said spray booth, said filter is inserted within said air flow, and when said person is not within said spray booth said filter is removed from said air flow.