Airflow designs are a defining element of any spray booth, so it’s one of the first things finishing operators need to consider when upgrading to a new booth.

While there are only a handful of options when selecting a type of booth, each one carries a unique set of advantages and possible drawbacks. Airflow systems impact every aspect of a booth’s operation, so companies should carefully weigh how their chosen design will affect operating costs, quality of results and workplace safety.

Recommended for:
Aerospace, Automotive, and Large Equipment + Complex Finishing Requirements

• Balanced Performance
• Minimal Installation Requirements
• Simple Maintenance and Upkeep

Semi-downdraft spray booths combine the two airflow designs described above (crossdraft and downdraft) to strike a balance between efficiency, speed, and quality. Because this airflow design doesn’t require a pit for operation, like a conventional downdraft booth, this booth can be easily installed in most facilities. The term semi-downdraft refers to how air passes over the part with downward airflow before being exhausted via horizontal airflow.

Stage 1

Airflow is introduced into the booth’s air supply plenum and drawn through the supply filters located in the ceiling, which acts as a diffusion media. The multiple synthetic layers of filtration are the result of combining a pre-filter, which consists of a high-performance cover mat, with a final filter of progressively structured media, which is thermally bonded and treated with a special adhesive tackifier.

Stage 2

As air passes through the booth and towards the exhaust filters, uniform airflow collects overspray around the finishing product and moves particulate away from the spray environment. These exhaust filters utilize a continuous filament glass fiber with an open weave pattern to further prevent face-loading via saturation.

Stage 3

Paint-laden air is forced to change direction multiple times as it passes through the exhaust system, reducing the occurrence of fogging. Whisper-quiet exhaust fans direct air through the exhaust plenum, which is designed to facilitate balanced airflow and energy efficiency.