International.
It is a special powder that makes the transparent varnish rough on the surface to a depth of a few thousandths of a millimeter so that the individual marks become visible.
With this process, the Audi exclusive program offers a customized design of the side blades for all customers of the R8 model vehicle.
The process developed by Audi experts makes each Audi unique. By applying the desired symbols to the components after being painted, the process can be easily integrated into normal series production. "The partial stamping method is an excellent example of the flexibility of our production. Being able to implement individualization in normal series production is one of the goals of our smart factory," said Prof. Dr. Hubert Waltl, Member of the Board of Management for Production of AUDI AG.
The paint of a car consists of - in addition to the cathodic immersion coating to protect against corrosion - at least three additional layers: filler, base layer and transparent lacquer as the top protective layer. With the newly developed process, a template of the desired pattern is first placed on the component. Next, a blasting system sprays a special powder on the surface, whereupon the varnish layer becomes rough at a depth of only a few thousandths of a millimeter, less than one-tenth the thickness of a human hair. This creates the effect of a matte and homogeneous pattern.
"With this process, we modify the brightness of the paint and the intensity of its brightness. The light hitting the surface is then diffusely reflected by the individualized surface areas. This makes it look matte," explained project manager Dr. Erhard Brandl. Mirko Endres, head of production section. He added: "This form of individualization is weatherproof, unlike conventional letters and stickers, and has a much higher quality look."
"The Audi paint shop can apply almost any pattern that a customer might want and that does not affect the rights of third parties. At present, components with a size of up to one meter per meter can be processed in this way. The Audi R8 super sports car is the first model for which this technology is offered through the Audi exclusive individualization program. If desired, R8 customers can have their individual letters and graphics applied to the Side Blades of the Coupe and the open version of Spyder. It is planned to extend the offer to other models in the future," the company said in a statement.
Source: Audi.
