Does your Finishing Process need a Full or Side Downdraft Paint Booth?

The design of your paint booth makes a huge difference depending on the products or components you are finishing. In paint finishing, there are two common airflow configurations – full downdraft and side downdraft. Each configuration has advantages based on the size and coating of your product as well as the volume of your production. Here are some key differences between full downdraft and side downdraft booths and the industries and products that use each one. 

How a Full Downdraft Booth Works
A full downdraft booth has airflow that enters from the ceiling and flows vertically down to the floor. The top to bottom airflow ensures the paint is adhered as quickly as possible, with overspray or any contaminants removed in the process. This provides a superior paint application and is ideal for glossy or high-visibility surfaces. Downdraft booths are typically used for automotive finishes, aerospace parts and fuselage, and yachts and boats that require smooth finishes. 

Side Downdraft Booths
Side downdraft booths provide air from the ceiling and then diagonally downward to exhaust filters on the side walls of the booth. The airflow moves over the product in a more horizontal pattern and provides an alternative when a full downdraft system isn’t possible in the facility configuration. These booths are easier to install, which can be more cost-effective if you have slab floors with better performance than a cross-draft booth. Side downdraft booths are used for automotive refinishing, machinery, and agricultural vehicles where finish quality isn’t critical. 

Choosing the Right Booth for Your Facility
If you have a high-gloss or highly detailed product that requires perfect finishes, a full downdraft booth is the best choice. For more compact products, those that do not require high-quality finishes, and smaller production volumes, a side downdraft booth is a good option. If your facility doesn’t have room for a pit, a full downdraft won’t work so the side downdraft is a great substitution

Full downdraft and side downdraft booths each offer benefits based on the type of product you are finishing. From high-end yachts to industrial equipment, choosing the right booth will improve production and application quality. Depending on your facility configuration, production volume, and finishes, we can help you determine the best booth for your operations. Rohner designs and builds full and side downdraft booths to meet your specifications. Talk to our team to discuss your production needs and applications to get started.

Have questions? Please contact the Rohner team: info@rohner-usa.com