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(11) | EP 0 396 223 A3 |
(12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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(54) | Method and apparatus for flushing residual paint from the internal flow passages in a paint distribution system |
(57) Residual paint is flushed from a paint distribution system (12) by simultaneously
injecting a measured volume of atomized solvent and a quantity of compressed air into
a manifold (58). Prior to injection, the solvent is first moved into a metering cylinder
(44) having an outlet therefrom communicating with the manifold (58). A metering piston
(46) is slideable within the metering cylinder (44) for urging the measured volume
of solvent into the manifold (58). An air pressure responsive piston (32) is connected
to the metering piston (46). At the appropriate times, air pressure is applied to
the air piston (32) and also injected into the manifold (58). As the air piston (32)
is moved, the connected metering piston (46) forces the measured solvent through an
atomizer nozzle (56) and into the manifold (58). |