GM Awards Supplier for Environmental Excellence FTS Technologies enables paint to stick to plastic vehicle parts without chemicals 2012-04-13 GM Awards Supplier for Environmental Excellence FTS Technologies, a surface treatment company based in Whitmore Lake, Mich., received the General Motors Environmental Excellence Award for introducing an energy-efficient technology that lets paint stick to plastic vehicle parts without using traditional chemical adhesion systems. It helps GM’s supply base reduce waste and emissions. “FTS is committed to helping the auto industry green its operations,†said John Bradburn, manager of GM’s waste-reduction efforts. “Their technology reduces the impact of the vehicle painting process by dramatically reducing waste and emissions. We’re quickly integrating it throughout our supply chain due to the improved quality and throughput it provides.†The flame-treatment technology creates a molecular change to the surface of the plastic, making it bond with the paint. It’s being used on the Chevrolet Cruze, Sonic, and Volt. By using the new process on the Cruze, for example, GM suppliers: Reduced solid and liquid waste (filters, cleaners, solvents and coatings) from 48 tons a year to less than 1 ton. Decreased air pollutants from 810 tons a year to 80 tons a year. Eliminated landfill waste like paint sludge and painted scrap material from 25 tons to nearly zero.
