How Long Does It Take to Install a Spray Coating Production Line?

Planning a production line install but not sure how long it takes?

Installing a spray coating production line usually takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on project complexity, equipment lead times, and site conditions.

Each stage—from design to training—affects how quickly you can start full production. Here's what to expect.

What happens during the initial planning and design phase?

Installing fast starts with planning smart.

This phase includes layout planning, equipment selection, and permit applications—typically taking 4 to 8 weeks.

You’ll need to:

• Choose the right coating method and spray booths
• Decide between gas or electric curing ovens
• Design an efficient floor plan for your space
• Ensure compliance with local codes and safety regulations

Delays in permit approvals or unclear production goals often stretch this phase.

What site preparation is needed before installation?

Even the best plan won’t work without a ready space.

Site prep takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how much infrastructure is in place.

Tasks include:

• Clearing floor space and leveling
• Installing or upgrading electrical and air systems
• Ensuring proper ventilation
• Creating utility access for ovens, compressors, and booths

Older buildings or shared factory spaces may need structural or HVAC updates, which adds time.

How long does it take to procure spray coating equipment?

The equipment clock starts ticking once orders are placed.

Expect 4 to 12 weeks for equipment procurement, longer for custom builds.

Typical components include:

• Spray booths (manual or automated)
• Curing ovens (gas or electric)
• Conveyors and loading systems
• Filtration and exhaust systems
• Control cabinets and automation software

Standard models ship faster. Custom booths or automation tools take longer due to fabrication and testing.

How is the production line infrastructure installed?

Once everything arrives, it’s time to build.

Infrastructure setup typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on line size and automation level.

What gets installed:

• Booths aligned to airflow requirements
• Ovens connected to power and ventilation
• Conveyors fitted and tested for smooth transfer
• Safety equipment (sprinklers, fire sensors, emergency shutoffs)

Smaller lines can go in fast. Larger systems with multi-zone curing or robotic arms take longer.

How are control systems integrated?

You can't run what you can't control.

Control system integration takes 1 to 3 weeks. It includes installing HMI panels, PLCs, and quality control software.

Common tasks:

• Connecting conveyor motors to control cabinets
• Setting oven temperature logic
• Syncing spray arms with line speed
• Linking safety interlocks to alarms

Troubleshooting and minor bugs are normal here—test everything thoroughly before moving on.

How long does staff training take?

People make the line work.

Operator training takes 3 days to 2 weeks depending on system complexity and prior experience.

Essential training covers:

• Machine startup and shutdown
• Daily cleaning routines
• Spray technique and quality control
• Emergency procedures

Advanced lines with automation or recipe-based programming will require extra time, including digital training sessions.

What’s involved in initial testing and calibration?

This is where plans meet reality.

Calibration and test runs take 1 to 2 weeks.

This phase includes:

• Dry runs without powder or paint
• Full spray tests with target parts
• Adjusting oven dwell times
• Tuning spray patterns and pressure
• Measuring film thickness, gloss, and cure levels

Don’t skip this. A rushed test stage leads to inconsistent product quality later.

What about ramp-up and early production?

After install, you’re not at full speed yet.

Ramp-up takes 2 to 4 weeks as you refine processes and settle into routine production.

During this time:

• Final SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) are written
• Staff are cross-trained
• Maintenance intervals are scheduled
• Vendors may return to fine-tune systems or adjust airflows

Expect slightly slower production at first. It pays off long-term with fewer defects.

Installation Timeline Summary

Conclusion

Installing a spray coating line takes time—but careful planning and solid teamwork can speed things up. Most lines are fully operational within 3 to 6 months, depending on how custom the solution is.