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.

AutomotiveBody shopChemical resistanceDsearPaint resistanceSpray boothVehicle spray