RAM Universal was approached by an aerospace / defence contractor to develop a system for coating aircraft components with a special impact resistant resin.

The system needed to be self-contained as the solvents in the resin are flammable, and they constitute an ATEX hazardous area in and around the system. A glovebox design was agreed, to enable the safe loading and unloading of the parts, with an extractor system incorporated to remove any fumes from the cabinet.

RAM also designed the pressure system for holding and dispensing the resin in a controlled manner, as well as the integrated controls required for safe operation. This includes safety interlocks that ensure a clean air environment before the door can be opened and suitable interior lighting.

All the controls were designed to be pneumatically operated to remove any electrical equipment from the ATEX environment, to avoid expensive and bulky switchgear. To keep the operator's hands free to deal with the components inside the glovebox, the resin flow is controlled by a special foot pedal box, adjustable for left or right footed operators, a pre-settable flow valve and pressure regulating equipment to control delivery.

Pressure balance inside the glove box is achieved through special filters for incoming air and a pressure / relief vent valve for ensuring the suppression of pressure or vacuum build up. The all stainless steel unit was supplied with ATEX and CE certification as required for the site compliance, within 6 weeks of design.