Mazda has deployed ABB’s RB1000i-S paint atomizers at its Hiroshima Ujina plant as part of its 2035 carbon-neutrality push. The digitally enhanced system achieves 95-99% transfer efficiency—dramatically reducing overspray while cutting paint use by 17% (30,000 liters annually) for the CX-5/MX-5 production lines.
Dual Environmental and Cost Benefits
Beyond paint savings, the atomizers lower:
- Compressed air consumption by 30%
- VOC emissions from solvent evaporation
- Energy use for waste fluid treatment
Mazda reports reduced maintenance needs, as the system’s precision minimizes overspray contamination.
Retrofit Design Supports Circular Economy
The RB1000i-S works with existing ABB and third-party robots, allowing upgrades via bell cup/nozzle replacements. ABB emphasizes this modular approach extends equipment lifespan while maintaining production uptime—key for high-volume plants.
Painting: Mazda’s Biggest CO2 Challenge
“60% of Mazda’s manufacturing emissions come from painting,” noted ABB’s Joerg Reger. The atomizers target this hotspot, potentially eliminating 1,800+ metric tons of CO₂/year at full implementation.
Industry-Wide Sustainability Model
ABB positions the technology as a template for automakers transitioning to net-zero. With 170,000+ vehicles painted annually at Ujina alone, such innovations could reshape global automotive sustainability benchmarks.
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