Articles
Embracing Environmental Responsibility
PF editor-in-chief Scott reflects on environmental responsibility in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
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The Future of Hard Chrome: Pioneering Innovations for Sustainable Solutions
Although useful, chromic acid and other compounds that contain hexavalent chromium ions are highly toxic and carcinogenic. However, one company has developed an alternative for the hard chrome process that achieves thick, conformal coatings with wear and fatigue resistance comparable or superior to hexavalent chromium-based systems.
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Masking Solutions for Medical Applications
According to Custom Fabricating and Supplies, a cleanroom is ideal for converting, die cutting, laminating, slitting, packaging and assembly of medical-grade products.
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Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO): A High-Performance Coating for Light Metal Alloys
Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) offers an innovative approach to high-performance coatings for light metal alloys, providing superior alternatives to traditional hard anodizing. The process transforms the surface of metals like Al, Mg and Ti into a robust oxide layer with customizable properties, tailored for demanding applications in aerospace, semiconductor, and industrial manufacturing.
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Tackling Common Cleaning Challenges
These four cleaning problems have practical solutions that, when followed properly, can be successful.
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Polarization and Natural Order - The 56th William Blum Lecture
This paper provides an overview of the parallels between the synthetic order established by non-equilibrium reactions, such as anodizing, which are nano-scale, and the natural order established by equilibrium reactions in nature, many of which are on the macro-scale.
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AESF Heritage: SUR/FIN 2000 – European Academy of Surface Technology Throwing Power Measurement: The Assaf Cell
A throwing power cell is described in detail, which can be used as a small jig and positioned in an electroplating tank. This Assaf Cell is particularly useful for simulating small recesses, typically through-holes found in printed circuit boards.
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Maximize Your Racking Efficiency and Quality
Best practices for racking parts in surface finishing operations.
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A Curious Mind Rises to the Top
Read Matt Kirchner’s perspective about why curiosity, on the part of those leading change and innovation, is such a sought-after trait.
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Plating Top Shop Values Benchmarking Survey
This 2024 Top Shop uses the survey as motivation to reach its goal and stay consistent.
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How to Address Declining Powder Coating Coverage Over Time
Fine particles from reclaim could be to blame for powder coating problems that emerge over time. Avoid problems by keeping hooks clean, maintaining guns and using reclaim powder quickly to avoid accumulation of fines.
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Surface Finisher Adds Thermal Spray Facility to Stay ‘Hot’
Continuing to grow its capabilities, this finishing company, which operates a 14-building campus, adds yet another service to its already long list of offerings.
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