Last updated: April 2026
Vehicle spray booth applications present specific challenges for strip curtain materials: isocyanate-based paints, solvent vapour, high air velocity from spray booth ventilation, and the need for operators to see clearly through the barrier.
Why Spray Booths Use PVC Strip Curtains
- Preparation bay separation — separating prep areas from finished vehicle storage
- Thermal separation — heated spray booths lose energy when vehicles enter/exit
- Dust and contamination control — preventing body shop dust entering clean spray areas
- Traffic management — defining vehicle entry/exit routes through the workshop
Chemical Compatibility
For modern waterborne paint systems (now mandatory for most European emission compliance), standard clear PVC performs well. For solvent-based 2K systems, look for chemical-resistant PVC grades. Avoid using ketone solvents (acetone, MEK) to clean PVC strips — they aggressively attack PVC.
Anti-Static Consideration
In environments using flammable solvent-based paints, anti-static PVC strips should be specified to reduce static build-up. Check your DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002) assessment for your specific solvents.
Specification
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Strip width | 300mm — reduces snag points with vehicle mirrors |
| Strip thickness | 3mm standard; 4mm for high air velocity booths |
| Colour | Clear only — operator visibility essential |
| Anti-static | Required for flammable solvent environments |
Maintenance
- High-volume production bodyshop: Clean weekly with IPA wipe to remove paint mist
- Low-volume specialist shop: Monthly cleaning adequate
- Replace strips when paint build-up significantly reduces visibility — typically annually in busy shops
View our industrial PVC strip curtains suitable for spray booths.
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