The Debrecen paint shop is designed for high efficiency, capable of fully automated painting of 30 vehicle bodies per hour, with potential for increased capacity. Developed using BMW’s extensive production expertise, the facility spans 33,000 square meters and represents a significant advancement in modern manufacturing.
Key to reducing the carbon footprint, the power-to-heat system allows the paint shop to operate entirely on electricity, eliminating the need for natural gas. This shift, combined with sourcing electricity exclusively from renewable energy, marks a major environmental milestone for BMW. Additionally, the Heat Grid project enhances energy efficiency, utilizing waste heat recovery to achieve up to ten percent energy savings.
Debrecen’s paint shop also introduces the innovative eRTO process for exhaust purification, which runs on electricity and offers exceptional energy efficiency through high thermal recovery. Alongside this, dry separation technology significantly cuts water usage and energy demand by recycling air and repurposing materials like limestone powder, further boosting sustainability.
Digitalization plays a crucial role in the facility’s efficiency. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) manage the transportation of car bodies, and Automated Surface Inspection (AOI) systems ensure the highest quality by detecting any imperfections post-painting. The entire planning process for the paint shop was virtually executed, allowing for precise structural planning and early employee training before construction even began.
The Debrecen paint shop stands as a testament to BMW’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, setting a new standard for automotive manufacturing.
—
Image credits: BMW
