Akzo Nobel: AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinish NA Introduces New-Generation Waterborne Basecoat

AkzoNobel has announced the North American launch of Sikkens Autowave Optima, the new-generation, one-stop application waterborne basecoat that supports body shops in delivering the perfect combination of productivity and sustainability while providing the quality and performance AkzoNobel's premium basecoats are known for. Building on its 30-year heritage of waterborne expertise, AkzoNobel's researchers, scientists, technical and sales teams from around the world have developed, tested and refined this new-generation basecoat alongside selected customers for AkzoNobel's premium brand Sikkens. This new basecoat helps achieve up to 50% faster processing times compared to conventional basecoat application methods. With perfect coverage in just 1.5 layers due to its high pigmentation, this results in paint material savings of approximately 15% on average . The one-stop application, without needing to flash-off between layers, only requires the technician to go into the spraybooth once. The fast application times translate into 60% lower energy costs and a reduction in carbon emissions of up to 60% compared to a conventional basecoat along with 380 g/l VOC (10% lower than the 420 g/l legislation). This new-generation waterborne basecoat technology demonstrates that sustainability, productivity and profitability can exist in harmony. Autowave Optima is easy to apply and blend and can be used for any type of repair in any climate. Its complete toner assortment covers a wide range of solid, metallic, pearl, candy and special effect car colors in the market. In combination with AkzoNobel's portfolio of fast-drying premium fillers and clearcoats, the new basecoat further increases system performance while meeting the highest OEM quality standards. "We are excited to introduce our new generation basecoat," said John Griffin, director of AkzoNobel's Automotive & Specialty Coatings business in North America. "This basecoat reflects the DNA of our company, and our commitment to addressing the key challenges of body shops - sustainability and efficiency - saving valuable time and energy through our advanced coating technology. "We launched our first waterborne basecoat three decades ago and have been setting the standard in waterborne basecoat technology ever since. We do this by putting the customer at the heart of what we do, so this launch celebrates more than just a basecoat - it is a celebration of everything we offer our customers, from advanced product systems to best-in-class consultancy through to our state-of-the art digital solutions and services." The new-generation basecoat delivers the highest color accuracy and a reliable color match through a seamless 100% digital color process with AkzoNobel's Automatchic spectrophotometer and MIXIT color retrieval software. Customers can also benefit from AkzoNobel's Refinish+ digital platform to track KPIs and improve business performance and the Carbeat production workflow dashboard that helps to drive operational efficiency. Launching over the next several months throughout North America, body shops looking to multiply their productivity and increase performance can now benefit from the all new Sikkens Autowave Optima basecoat. For more information on Sikkens Autowave Optima, click here . Milwaukee has expanded its thin metal category lineup with the introduction of the M18 FUEL 10-Gauge Nibbler, the largest capacity cordless nibbler on the market. Providing fast, clean cuts in 10ga mild steel, Milwaukee's new solution delivers tight turns, enhanced control and up to 96 feet per charge.