Spray Technique Analysis and Research for Defense (STAR4D®)

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History

The STAR4D beginnings go back to the 1990's with the IWRC's Spray Technique Analysis and Research (STAR) and Painting and Coating Compliance Enhancement (PACE) programs.

STAR began in 1994 and focused on providing private small businesses such as auto body shops and community colleges with a spray training program. The program ran until 2003 and was transferred to 30 sites, mainly community colleges, in 14 states. STAR improved efficiency 25-30% and was able to increase transfer efficiency by an average of 28.5%. This was done with the use of the LaserPaint as well as the curriculum.

In 1997, Painting and Coating Compliance Enhancement (PACE) began with the focus of providing painter training and second step assistance to painting facilities as well as small business assistance providers. Monthly training programs held at the IWRC's PACE facility covered a variety of topics ranging from pretreatment to powder coating.

These programs were active in raising awareness of the environmental impact spray painting facilities can have and informing businesses of the significant benefits that can be realized through using correct painting techniques.

Then beginning in 2003, these programs were modified through a partnership between the IWRC and the Defense Logistics' Agency (DLA) to address DoD painting needs through the Spray Technique Analysis and Research for Defense (STAR4D) program.

STAR4D adopted the training concepts and technologies used in the STAR and PACE programs and designed a program to address the unique needs of military painting operations. This program teaches effective spraying of specific components, equipment, vehicles, and surfaces to maximize coating efficiency and minimize environmental pollution. Primary goals of the program are to identify the concerns of the military refinishing industry and to provide spray technicians with advanced tools and training that will enable them to use less material and improve finish quality.

According to the DLA Memorandum, STAR4D "provides valuable services to military facilities Defense-wide that are engaged in painting and coating operations".

STAR4D has been particularly effective in assisting painters at Army National Guard sites in overhauling land vehicles, such as tanks and trucks, documenting potential cost savings achieved through the program, and developing innovative concepts to further improve its painter training program.

In 2006, STAR4D made a big change in doubling their facility size from 8,000 square feet to 16,000. The new addition gives STAR4D the capability to blast, coat, and cure a HUMVEE. To see pictures of the addition, click here.