Articles

editorial 2 Jun 2021

Embracing the Future of Finishing

Products Finishing editor-in-chief Scott Francis discusses the challenges and the changing landscape of the finishing industry — and how new technologies might carry the industry forward.

workforce development 1 Jun 2021

Getting in Trouble in Grade School Made Me a Better Executive

How technical education can help hands-on, kinesthetic, non-classroom learners grow into the talented workforce the manufacturing world needs.

Industry 4.0 1 Jun 2021

A Focus on Automation and Smart Technology

The June 2021 issue of Products Finishing puts a focus on the role automation and Industry 4.0 solutions are currently playing and will continue to play in increasing magnitude in the finishing industry.

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sustainability 1 Jun 2021

NASF/AESF Foundation Research Project #121: Development of a Sustainability Metrics System and a Technical Solution Method for Sustainable Metal Finishing: 4th Quarterly Report

This NASF-AESF Foundation research project report covers the fourth quarter of project work (January-March 2021) at Wayne State University in Detroit on sustainability in the metal finishing industry. The success of this project depends on data. The data needed comes from industry and other stakeholders. The reader is encouraged to complete the survey form discussed in this report.

Industry 4.0 1 Jun 2021

Automation and Control of Electroless Nickel Baths

Spectrophotometric nickel/pH controller enables tighter control of the ENi process, resulting in improved product quality.

Electroplating 31 May 2021

Outside the Box Thinking on Passivation

Richard Held and Daniel Church of Haviland Enterprises Inc. offer advice for troubleshooting passivation inconsistencies.

Vacuum Vapor 27 May 2021

Extending Bath Life and Reducing Process Challenges in Vapor Degreasing Systems

How using a stabilizer can extend your bath life and help you avoid costly system repairs.

economics 25 May 2021

Finishing Index Moderates After Posting March All-Time High

Best Efforts to Increase Output Still Cannot Quell Rising Backlogs

Liquid Coating 21 May 2021

Falcon Cranes Goes Prehistoric with HMG Paints

Falcon Cranes are known for their high-rise cranes however they have recently been involved in reinvigorating a dinosaur sculpture.

basics 20 May 2021

Preventative Maintenance for Paint Line Conveyors

Dave Hesse, field installation superintendent, Global Finishing Solutions, offers suggestions for inspecting and maintaining your industrial conveyor system.

nasf 19 May 2021

Qualitative Approach to Pulse Plating

In 1986, the AESF published Theory and Practice of Pulse Plating, edited by Jean Claude Puippe and Frank Leaman, the world’s first textbook on pulse plating. A compendium of chapters written by experts in this then-emerging field, the book quickly became the authoritative text in pulse plating. What follows here is the opening chapter, serving as an introduction to the field. Although the field has grown immensely in the intervening 35 years, the reader will find that the material remains a valuable introduction to those looking to advance the field of pulse plating.