PPG launches expanded automotive OEM clearcoat production in Germany

Pittsburgh-based PPG announced Wednesday it would start the expansion of automotive clearcoat production at its facility in Erlenbach, Germany.

The €3 million project will nearly double the site’s capacity for premium clearcoats and will use advanced manufacturing technology to improve the operational efficiency, sustainability and flexibility compared to conventional processes.

“This is an important investment that ensures we will continue to meet the growing regional demand for our premium clearcoats, which offer the world-class finish with superior appearance and durability that our customers demand,” said Roald Johannsen, PPG vice president, automotive OEM coatings, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Using advanced manufacturing technology also gives us increased flexibility to produce different products in multiple batch sizes in the most sustainable way.”
PPG bought the Erlenbach site from Hemmelrath in 2019 to enhance its automotive coatings offering and add formulating and manufacturing capability. The new clearcoat facility will use a fully automated, state-of-the-art and highly sustainable production process with shorter and faster manufacturing times. The process is flexible and capable of manufacturing multiple batch sizes of up to 25 metric tons.

“This investment makes our Erlenbach facility a center of excellence for clearcoats, using best-in-class technologies to deliver superior scratch- and chemical-resistant coatings that are highly durable,” Johannsen said. “It will further strengthen our position as a leading manufacturer of the most advanced and innovative clearcoats that are capable of meeting or exceeding the most demanding OEM quality and performance specifications.”