In the automotive refinish industry, time is money. Shops constantly seek ways to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, and deliver flawless results—all without compromising safety or quality. Enter Global Finishing Solutions’ REVO Accelerated Curing Systems, powered by short wave electric infrared technology. This revolutionary approach has transformed how coatings are cured, making it faster, safer, and more efficient than traditional methods. Let’s dive into the science behind REVO and why it’s a game-changer for automotive refinishing.

What Is Short Wave Electric Infrared Technology?

To understand the impact of REVO systems, we first need to explore the concept of infrared technology. Infrared energy is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and generates heat by causing molecular motion in objects. Short wave infrared (SWIR) operates at a higher frequency than medium or long wave infrared, allowing it to penetrate deeper into materials and create heat more efficiently.

Here’s how short wave electric infrared works:

• An electrical current flows through a tungsten filament, producing mostly short wave energy.
• This energy penetrates multiple layers of coating and heats the substrate beneath, curing the material from the inside out.
• Unlike traditional methods that cure layer by layer, SWIR can cure up to three coats in a single pass.

This ability to cure coatings quickly and thoroughly is what sets REVO systems apart from other curing technologies.

How Does REVO Compare to Gas Catalytic Systems?

When comparing curing technologies, gas catalytic infrared systems are often seen as an alternative to electric infrared. However, there are significant differences that make REVO’s short wave electric infrared superior:

Gas Catalytic Infrared Systems:

• Generate medium wave energy by forcing natural gas through a catalytic ceramic plate.
• Require preheating to 200°F, which takes up to 10 minutes and increases energy consumption.
• Cure coatings layer by layer, taking longer overall.
• Heat spreads beyond the targeted area, requiring special masking of nearby components like plastic parts.

REVO Short Wave Electric Infrared Systems:

• Produce 80% short wave energy with minimal medium waves.
• Reach curing temperature almost instantly—no preheating required.
• Cure multiple layers in one pass, drastically reducing cycle times.
• Focus heat precisely on the substrate, eliminating the need for special masking beyond traditional paper coverings.

By switching to REVO systems, shops can save time and energy while achieving better results.

The Benefits of Short Wave Infrared in Automotive Refinishing

1. Faster Curing Times

Traditional methods can take hours to cure primers, basecoats, and clearcoats. With REVO systems, curing times are reduced to mere minutes:

• Primer cures in 5 minutes.
• Basecoat dries in 3 minutes.
• Clearcoat is ready for polishing in just 10–15 minutes.

This rapid curing process allows technicians to complete jobs faster without sacrificing quality.

2. Energy Efficiency

Short wave electric infrared uses less energy compared to gas catalytic systems or conventional drying methods. By focusing heat directly on the substrate instead of heating the surrounding air or shop space, REVO systems cut power consumption significantly.

3. Reduced Rework

Incomplete curing often leads to defects like shrinkage or dieback after sanding or painting—issues that require costly rework. REVO’s thorough curing eliminates these problems by ensuring coatings are fully cured from the inside out.

4. Enhanced Safety

Unlike gas-powered systems that pose potential safety hazards due to constant operation or inconsistent heat distribution, REVO systems offer precise control over temperature and curing intensity. They also prevent overheating of sensitive vehicle components like airbags or child safety seats.

Applications of REVO Systems in Automotive Shops

REVO Accelerated Curing Systems are versatile tools designed for various shop needs:

• REVO Handheld: Perfect for spot repairs, windshield removal, aluminum repair, and dent removal.
• REVO Spot & Rapid MC: Mobile units mounted on carts for easy positioning anywhere in the shop.
• REVO Speed & Rapid OR: Integrated into paint booths or prep areas for high-volume repairs.

These systems simplify workflow by allowing technicians to cure coatings quickly without moving vehicles between workstations.

Why Short Wave Infrared Matters for Efficiency

The science behind short wave infrared isn’t just theoretical—it translates directly into real-world benefits for shops:

• Increased throughput: Shops can handle up to 80% more repairs with REVO systems compared to conventional methods.
• Lower operating costs: Reduced power consumption means significant savings over time.
• Improved quality: Thorough curing results in shinier finishes and fewer defects.

For example, curing a door and fender on a medium vehicle takes just 12 minutes with REVO systems and costs around $0.42—far less than traditional methods that require hours and higher energy usage.

Conclusion

The science behind Global Finishing Solutions’ REVO Accelerated Curing Systems demonstrates why short wave electric infrared technology is revolutionizing automotive refinishing. By offering faster curing times, improved energy efficiency, reduced rework, and enhanced safety features, REVO systems empower shops to deliver exceptional results while maximizing productivity.

At HMFT, we’re proud to support collision repair centres with cutting-edge solutions like REVO systems. If you’re ready to upgrade your shop’s capabilities with this innovative technology, contact us today!

FAQ

How does short wave infrared differ from medium wave infrared?

• Short wave infrared penetrates deeper into materials and cures coatings faster while using less energy compared to medium wave infrared.

Can REVO systems cure multiple layers at once?

• Yes! REVO’s short wave technology allows up to three coats to be cured in a single pass.

Are REVO systems safe for vehicles with sensitive components?

• Absolutely! The precise heat distribution prevents overheating of airbags or other sensitive parts during curing.

How much can shops save with REVO systems?

• Shops can reduce curing costs significantly—curing one panel costs as little as $0.50–$1 compared to traditional methods.

Do technicians need special training to use REVO systems?

• No! REVO units are intuitive and easy to use with default settings tailored for optimal performance.