PPG Unveils Automated Stirring Technology to Revolutionise Automotive Paint Mixing

PPG has launched its MIX'N'SHAKE™ automated stirring system, marking what the company describes as a significant shift away from traditional manual paint preparation methods in the automotive refinish sector. The globally available technology promises to enhance mix consistency, minimise waste and deliver substantial time savings for painters and body shops.

The system made its debut at the EQUIP AUTO trade show in Paris, running from 14th to 18th October, where PPG also presented its PPG LINQ™ digital ecosystem – a finalist for the prestigious EQUIP AUTO Innovation Award.

Eliminating the Manual Bottleneck

By removing the need for manual stirring, the PPG Mix'n'Shake system ensures consistent colour accuracy whilst reducing rework and boosting productive working hours by up to 6%, according to company figures. The technology delivers a fully homogenised, spray-ready paint mix in under 90 seconds through a unique automated stirring device paired with an exclusive notched cup that attaches directly to the spray gun. Both the device and cup design are patent pending.

"The PPG LINQ digital ecosystem and PPG MOONWALK® automated mixing system have transformed colour identification and paint mixing in the refinish industry, but the repetitive final step of stirring has remained largely unchanged," said Alban d'Epenoux, PPG's global marketing director for Automotive Refinish. "The PPG Mix'n'Shake system addresses this, ensuring that painters achieve an accurate mix every time without the inefficiencies and inconsistencies of manual stirring, ultimately freeing up time for higher value tasks."

Time and Cost Savings

The technology features pre-programmed settings for primers, basecoats and clearcoats. Users simply insert the notched cup, select the appropriate setting and allow the device to handle the mixing. Once complete, the cup attaches directly to a spray gun, reducing handling and streamlining workflow.

"We found that body shops that typically complete six repairs per day can save up to 16 working days annually with PPG Mix'n'Shake," said d'Epenoux. "The system also reduces the cost of consumable waste such as stirring sticks, mixing cups, strainers and other disposables by up to 10%."

Cleaner Workspace, Broader Compatibility

The self-contained system eliminates spills and splashes, creating a cleaner, more organised and professional workspace. It's compatible with both waterborne and solvent-borne formulations and integrates seamlessly with the PPG LINQ digital ecosystem for enhanced workflow management.

The system will be marketed and distributed under PPG's SEM brand as SEM Mix'n'Shake in the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and as PPG Mix'n'Shake in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Latin America and Asia Pacific.

For more information, visit ppgmixnshake.com.

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