Conversion is the latest of several environmentally friendly steps taken by the shop

BLUE BELL, Pa., Oct. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Center Square Motors, a certified automobile collision repair facility, announced today that it has converted its shop from solvent-based painting system and to a more eco-friendly waterborne system. The shop now uses the R-M® Onyx HD™ waterborne refinish system by BASF Automotive Refinish. BASF's R-M Onyx HD waterborne paint system not only helps protect the environment, but also provides excellent durability, color match, and finish.  

Center Square Motors completed the conversion last month and has noticed considerable improvements in its paint application processes. "Our ability to match and blend color was always good – but it's gotten even better," says Chuck Dietch, owner of Center Square Motors. "With a water-based paint, we're able to achieve a better match to factory standards since this technology is being used by the majority of new car manufactures."

The conversion involved making physical changes to the 20,000 square foot facility and retraining its technicians. Changes include retrofitting the shop's paint booths with temperature and humidity controls, upgrading air movement systems, and adding new fans, blowers, and dryers. "Better air movement helps paint to dry," Dietch says. "Plus, there has to be little or no moisture or it will inhibit the drying process."

The shop also now uses new spray guns since sprayers for solvent-based paints would corrode with the use of water-based paints. The new guns also help reduce paint use. "With the old guns, the paint was drawn up from a reservoir. The new guns use a pressure-gravity fit with the paint on top, which results in a much higher transfer rate," Dietch explains. "So there's less waste and overspraying. It also means there's less atomized product going through the exhaust system."

The conversion to the R-M Onyx HD waterborne refinish system by BASF is the latest of several steps Center Square Motors has taken to be more environmentally friendly. The shop also recycles automobile tires, antifreeze, and motor oil.

BASF applauds Center Square Motors' commitment to the environment. "We view Center Square Motors as a true environmental leader in its industry," says Vitor Margaronis, Marketing Director, BASF Coatings North America.

Center Square Motors is family owned and is in its second generation of operation. It began as D&C Auto Body in 1956 and moved to its current location with its present name in 1977.

About Center Square Motors

Center Square Motors is a state-of-the-art automotive services facility that consistently earns top customer-satisfaction ratings. It provides certified collision repair and paint services, on-site car rental, and 24-hour towing. The shop's mechanical department provides routine repair and maintenance services and performs state inspections and emission testing.

SOURCE Center Square Motors

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