Graco Inc. announced that it is introducing a new positive displacement proportioner, the ProMix PD2K. This breakthrough proportioner mixes materials physically closer to the gun so the flush zone is significantly smaller than traditional systems. This allows end-users to use less paint, while reducing disposal costs. At the same time, it facilitates faster color changes. Since the ProMix PD2k reduces the amount of mixed material in the system, it works well for short pot life materials. It is also compatible with acid-based materials.

“The ProMix PD2k is an exciting new technology,” said Blake Erickson, Senior Product Marketing Manager. “Our customers were looking for ways to increase efficiency in their plants, and by moving the mixing point closer to the gun, it is possible to reduce solvent use and mixed material waste by up to 80 percent compared to traditional electronic proportioners.”

The ProMix PD2K Proportioner was developed using 100 percent positive displacement technology that produces accurate mix ratios (within 1 percent accuracy) and more consistent pump performance. Because the ProMix PD2K can be equipped with either two or four dosing pumps, it can manage up to 30 colors and four catalysts. It also allows customers to proportion both epoxy and urethane using one system, rather than using multiple units to achieve the same result.

"This proportioner is very easy to set up and maintain. It handles various inbound pressures and viscosities without touchy fine-tuning," said Erickson. "And unlike gear pumps, the ProMix PD2K has positive displacement precision dosing pumps that do not require factory rebuilds and can be serviced in the field in less than 20 minutes."

The ProMix PD2K was awarded the Visionary New Product Award by the Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers (AWFS) at the AWFS Fair in July. The award recognized Graco for its product innovation, quality and ingenuity in the Green/Environmental Category for its new ProMix PD2K Positive Displacement Proportioner. This was one of 66 woodworking products entered to win this prestigious award.