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25 Nov 2024 Electroplating
2024 in Review — PF Looks Back on the Year's Biggest Industry Topics and Trends
From regulatory challenges to technology innovations, Products Finishing looks back at the finishing industry stories of 2024.

30 Oct 2024 surfin
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.

13 Dec 2024 Top Shops
Top Shop Builds Original Systems for Coating Medical Devices
Engineers at Surgical Coatings in Colorado have been ingeniously developing their own equipment, automation, processes and software since this powder coater’s inception in 1995.

10 Dec 2024 Electroplating
5 Common Electroplating Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Electroplating requires adherence to process control and maintenance procedures — here are some common missteps to avoid.

29 Oct 2024 nasf
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.

9 Dec 2024 Parts Cleaning
Testing Safe Alternative Conversion Coatings
A joint test protocol was developed by a hex chrome-free consortium to best evaluate the most recent commercially available alternative conversion coatings. This article reveals the findings.

14 Nov 2024
Finishing Activity Contracting But Slightly Slower in October
While new orders improved, materials prices continue to increase.

20 Dec 2024 curing
5 Maintenance Tips for Gas Catalytic IR Ovens
Basic and periodic preventive maintenance is essential for avoiding oven downtime.

2 Dec 2024 energy
Practical Environmental Management Reduces Costs, Refines Quality
By focusing on effluent treatment and efficient tin recovery, this Indian surface treatment plant meets stringent environmental standards and sustainable high-quality production.

1 Dec 2024 masking
A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Custom Masking
Is a custom masking design worth the investment? John Gill of Caplugs outlines the considerations to keep in mind when choosing between an off-the-shelf masking solution or a custom-made one.
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Webinars See All

On Demand
Elevate Your Process: Top Trends in Zinc Alloy Plating
The collaboration between Hubbard-Hall and Pavco brings together cutting-edge chemistry and extensive expertise to tackle common challenges in metal finishing, particularly for zinc (Zn) and Zn alloy plating. By leveraging the combined focus on innovation and efficiency, the team delivers practical approaches that help applicators elevate their processes, reduce costs and improve overall performance. In this webinar, the presenters will explore the synergistic effects of passivates and topcoats, revealing how they provide enhanced corrosion protection for Zn and Zn alloy plating. Together, these advances enhance the quality and durability of finishes and ensure long-term competitiveness in the marketplace. Agenda: Elevated performance Common issues addressed Innovative processes

On Demand
XRF Analysis of Materials for Fashion Jewelry and Accessories
XRF measurement of the layers is also important to assure the right color and appearance of the finished goods. Join Fischer as it discusses how XRF measurements can be used for process control, quality control and incoming inspection of electroplated jewelry pieces. Agenda: The high precision of XRF Cost-reduction benefits Getting reliable results in seconds Measuring multiple layers of plating thickness Calibrating for optimal performance

On Demand
Exploring Powder Coatings: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Any one of these three facets will help you become a stronger powder coater, but this session will walk you through all of them and provide details that will be most valuable on a quest to develop an optimal powder operation. Agenda: The good: introduction to powder coatings The bad: common challenges The ugly: debunking myths Best practices for optimal operations Case studies

On Demand
Sustainable Cleaning Solutions: Optimizing Performance and Reducing Waste
Our focus includes the use of membrane filtration systems – which can recover up to 98% of cleaning solutions – dramatically reducing the volume of concentrated waste requiring disposal. Additionally, we delve into strategies for maximizing cleaner longevity by precisely adjusting oil concentrations, leveraging the direct relationship between cleaner concentration and effective oil content management. By adopting these methods, businesses can achieve significant cost savings through reduced chemical consumption, lower waste disposal expenses and decreased energy usage – all while promoting environmental sustainability. Agenda: Membrane Filtration Systems: Learn how these systems protect industrial assets and recover a substantial percentage of cleaning solutions. Cost-Saving Strategies: Discover opportunities for savings through extended cleaner longevity and reduced chemical waste Technical Cleanliness Challenges: Understand the various challenges in achieving and maintaining technical cleanliness across processes. Establish a more sustainable and cost-efficient cleaning program that delivers superior results, reduces downtime and minimizes environmental impact

On Demand
Beyond the Surface: Maximizing Efficiency in Plating Baths Through XRF Analysis
Dive into plating bath optimization. Learn about the importance of chemistry measurement, various analysis methods and real-time monitoring benefits through X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis with insightful case studies highlighting efficiency gains. Join Fisher Technology's Devarsh Shah and Melissa Agneta as they discuss how to improve plating efficiency by exploring essential chemistry techniques, including real-life examples. Discover why measuring plating bath chemistry matters, the different ways to analyze it and the benefits of monitoring it as it happens in real-time. With XRF analysis, you'll gain the knowledge and tools to improve your plating process, thus ensuring top-notch efficiency and quality in surface finishing. Agenda: Importance of measuring plating bath chemistry Methods for analyzing bath chemistry Benefits of monitoring bath chemistry in real-time Case studies

On Demand
Mastering Wastewater Systems: Essential Insights into Maintenance, Life Span and Chemical Impact
In this high-level overview of wastewater system maintenance and upgrades, Robin Deal and Brian Greene will review the critical components required for a fully-functional system and discuss their expected life span. Learn to navigate factors such as material degradation and technological advancements, examine the effects, and address issues of chemical usage on the equipment. This webinar is designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to ensure your wastewater system remains in optimal condition, highlighting the importance of understanding both the hardware requirements and the chemical interactions that can influence system longevity and performance. By implementing proactive maintenance strategies and informed chemical management practices, you can enhance the reliability and efficiency of your wastewater infrastructure, ultimately contributing to environmental sustainability and public health protection. Agenda: Essential equipment for wastewater systems Life span considerations for wastewater systems Impact of chemical usage on wastewater equipment

On Demand
From Tradition to Tomorrow: Hubbard-Hall’s Journey with CEO Molly Kellogg Register Now
Calendar See All

14 Jan 2025
CCAI Wisconsin January Meeting
This presentation introduces the Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI), highlighting its mission, vision, and role as a premier resource for education, training, and networking in the industrial finishing industry. Attendees will learn about CCAI’s structure, membership benefits, educational programs, including training seminars and online courses, and partnerships with events like FABTECH. It will also highlight the membership levels, benefits tailored to both corporate and individual members, and initiatives like peer groups for custom coaters, Women in Finishing, student outreach, and valuable online resources for the finishing community. Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Time: 4:30 PM Check-In / 5:00 PM Dinner & Presentation Location: Cornerstone Sports Pub & Eatery 24 S. Main St. Oconomowoc, WI 53066 Cost: $30 CCAI Members / $45 Non-Members Registration: The registration cut-off date is January 8, 2025.

22 Jan 2025
Florida Finishers Corp Mid-Winter Conference
Save the date for the 2025 Florida Finishers Corp's Mid-Winter Conference. Please Register on the Florida Finishers Corp's Website https://www.floridafinisherscorp.com/ * Hotel information and discount code is on the FFC website *

23 Jan 2025
Chicago Midwest NASF Annual Meeting
Chicago Midwest Chapter of NASF Annual Business Meeting Election of Year 2025 Board of Directors Presentation of: The Bertram A. Stone Memorial Award Location: Westwood Tavern 1385 N. Meacham Rd., Schaumburg, IL Includes: Food and Drink

19 Feb 2025
Women in Manufacturing: Men as Allies Conference
WiM's first-ever Men as Allies Conference will serve as a thought-provoking platform for participants to discuss the crucial role of men as allies in the manufacturing industry. Experts in the field will present evidence-based arguments and real-world examples to demonstrate the advantages of diversity, equity, and inclusion in manufacturing. Attendees will learn and discuss strategies and best practices to actively support and champion women in the manufacturing industry, thereby contributing to the creation of lasting change within their organizations. This event is tailored for men in the manufacturing industry at the Director level and above, who are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within their organizations. It’s particularly designed for those who are eager to grow as allies, actively supporting and championing women in manufacturing. Through participation, attendees will gain insights, tools, and strategies to become more effective advocates for a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Men as Allies Conference will offer an opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of allyship, engage in vital conversations about gender equity and leave armed with actionable strategies to drive meaningful, inclusive change in their workplaces. Sessions include presentations on what allyship is and why it matters, the business case for gender equity, enhancing allyship through emotional intelligence, allyship in action, and creating an allyship action plan. The conference also will feature small, interactive breakout sessions and engaging expert panel discussions, all aimed at equipping attendees with concrete tools and ideas to elevate their role as allies in the workplace.

5 Mar 2025
National Surface Finishing Day
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

11 Mar 2025
Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar
CCAI is offering a comprehensive Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar developed by industry experts well-versed in safety for finishing operations. This day-and-a-half seminar focuses on NFPA 33, the Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials and will deliver important and critical information on how to safely operate an industrial finishing line. Topics Covered: An introduction to safety Overview and definitions General requirements and electrostatic spray equipment Ventilation Storage handling and distribution Fire protection Operations, maintenance and training Drying and curing Liquid and powder coatings Authority Having Jurisdiction panel discussion Who Should Attend? Manufacturing, staff and environmental engineers (industrial health & safety) Lead painters Maintenance leads and personnel Finishing equipment designers System controls and project engineers Facility managers Finishing industry distributors Date: Tuesday, March 11 and Wednesday, March 12 Time: Tuesday - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Wednesday 8:00 AM - Noon Location: Sames 45001 5 Mile Road Plymouth, MI 48170 Registration Fee: CCAI Members: $599 / Non-Members: $750 Registration Fee Includes: Classroom instruction; lunch on day one; a certificate of completion; and a printed copy of the NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials. Registration: CLICK HERE to register. Space is limited.

8 Jan 2025 New & Upcoming
CCAI Northern California - Seminar and Networking Event Register Now
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Programs

Top Shops
Features stories and news on the adaptations of top shops, good habits, beneficial practices and successes that make a finishing shop a "Top Shop."

40 under 40
Young professionals are a vital asset to the finishing industry, and it is important to acknowledge those who are making great strides in shaping the industry's future.

Champions of the Industry
Products Finishing is proud to announce a new awards program that recognizes individuals in the industry that are making important contributions to forward the surface finishing industry.
Videos See All

26 Aug 2024 sustainability
Algae-Based Coating Enables Modular Carbon Capture Removal System
Reactive Surfaces, an innovator in bio-based coatings, works on development of Carbon Capture Coatings, which harness the natural CO2-capturing capabilities of live algae.

9 Aug 2024
Plating Automation Turns Controls Up a Notch
This Cincinnati-based plating company has experienced a 33% improvement as a result of investing in a new electroless nickel line. It continues to tweak the control technology to create the most effective coating for its customers’ needs.

22 Jul 2024 Electroplating
Episode 46: Richard Lynch, Timothy Gotsick; MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions
Experts from MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions share industry insights in an interview from the SUR/FIN 2024 finishing industry tradeshow.

24 Apr 2024 40-under-40
Videos: 40 Under 40 Class of 2024
In these uncertain times, it is refreshing to hear from and learn about young talent in the surface finishing industry who are striving to make a difference within their organizations and the industry as a whole.

8 Apr 2024 Parts Cleaning
Vacuum Degreaser Cleans Up a Messy Situation
By replacing its immersion parts washer with a vacuum degreasing system, this machine shop is much more efficient, saving the company money, man hours and the health of the operators.

2 Oct 2023 automotive
Precise Paint Flow Reduces Material and Labor Costs
Finding a more accurate paint proportioner for its application enabled this auto parts manufacturer to save significant costs and labor while increasing capacity.
Collections See All

Improve Your Parts Cleaning Processes
10 Point Checklist to Improve Your Parts Cleaning Processes

Automotive Coatings
A collection of four PF features that delve into the technologies, processes and people working to provide protection for the automobiles of today.

The Case for Cleaning
Survey and analysis, with Hubbard-Hall, of Products Finishing Top Shops benchmarking attitudes and practices concerning parts cleaning.
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Matthew Kirchner

Matthew Kirchner Columnist

1 Feb 2010

Help Wanted

Position Description:Some unbelievably frustrating days—when your team members call in sick, a piece of equipment goes down, or when a customer complains—on which you will be ready to call it quits.

1 Jan 2010

The Moscow Rules

It's 1978.

1 Oct 2009

The Front Line

To improve business, first connect with shop floor employees.

1 Sep 2009

Getting Oriented

Start new employees off on the right foot by providing meaningful orientation.

management 1 Aug 2009

Matt Kirchner Goes to the Eye Doctor

A.K.A.: "Why Your Company Should Consider Consumer-Driven Healthcare".

1 Jun 2009

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

How to use the loss of a customer as a learning opportunity.

1 May 2009

World-Wide Biggest Loser Sales Person of All Time

Why it pays to always be on your best behavior on a sales call.

Anodizing 1 May 2009

Setting Targets

How one finisher is Meeting its Marks through Goal Setting and Dedication

1 Apr 2009

Whatever it Takes

Nail big projects with this checklist for ensuring careful planning and attention to detail.

1 Mar 2009

What are Your Weaknesses?

...and Other Idiotic Interview Questions

1 Feb 2009

“A ‘5 Why’ for Sales? Why not?”

How asking questions can help your sales team focus future efforts.

1 Jan 2009

I'll Scratch Your Back...

Why it pays to see the business through the other guy’s eyes.

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