JCB machines have always been famous for their iconic yellow colouring. Over the years, some of the environmental hazards associated with such coatings have been removed to protect human health and the environment. However, there are some opportunities to reduce the environmental impact of our solvent use even further.

Many solvents are classed as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When these are released into the atmosphere, they combine with other chemicals to produce ozone or smog. This can be harmful to human health.

Lots of our coating processes already use powder paints (which don’t contain VOCs). And we’re pursuing a reduction in our global VOC emissions through the introduction of new water-based paint technologies and low VOC engine lacquers, as well as investment in new paint application technologies.

Our paint team in Pune, India, has been working tirelessly to reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) consumption – with outstanding results. The team has diligently monitored paint thickness to discover where paint is over-applied. They’ve also carefully identified the causes of over-painting, like failing consumables or training needs. Optimising paint thickness (particularly on the inside of parts that sit together) and use of solvent recovery equipment has helped significantly reduce paint waste and solvent usage in Pune.

The team has rigorously investigated and applied a number of highly effective (and, in some cases, simple) approaches. For example, optimising spray gun flow rate has helped the team minimise overspray whilst optimising coverage. By ensuring paint finishes are right first time, we’ve reduced the amount of paint used to cover each machine and, by extension, the amount of paint sludge waste.

All in all, since 2015, we’ve reduced the amount of liquid paint used per machine at the Pune plant by 32%.