With rise in new orders and exports, future business outlook remains steady.
Contemplating how to continue offering chromic acid services in an increasingly stringent regulatory world? Liquid chrome products may be the solution you’re looking for.
Looking to upgrade your coating process and possibly invest in automation solutions? This helpful Ask the Expert article from Tom Brown of Carlisle Fluid Technologies offers advice for doing your research and working with your equipment supplier.
PF editor-in-chief Scott reflects on environmental responsibility in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
Best practices for racking parts in surface finishing operations.
As a former motorcycle manufacturer, this powder coating Top Shop benefits from understanding the finishing industry from a customer’s perspective.
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.
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.
Unavoidably interrupted by the SARS CoV-2 pandemic of 2020-21, this NASF-AESF Foundation research project report R-120 has been ongoing since April 2019. Now complete, this report is the final report, reflecting 16 quarters of work.
XRF is the go-to instrument for measuring electrolytic and electroless nickel coating thicknesses, however the technology does have limitations when it comes to measuring thick coatings. This helpful Ask the Expert article from Rob Weber of Fischer Technology explores several alternative methods.
This webinar features Molly Kellogg — president, CEO and chairman of Hubbard-Hall — as she shares insights on the company’s remarkable 175-year journey and its continued evolution in the surface finishing industry. In a world of mergers, acquisitions and rapid change, Hubbard-Hall has remained a steadfast partner standing the test of time by building on family legacy and values. Molly, the sixth generation of family leadership, will discuss the company's rich history, from its humble beginnings as a corner drugstore to becoming a global manufacturer of specialty chemistry serving industries from Michigan to Malaysia. Discover how Hubbard-Hall’s "whatever it takes" approach — along with its extensive testing labs, production facilities and distribution centers — continues to provide customers with tank side problem-solving expertise. In this session, we’ll explore Hubbard-Hall's future, with Molly sharing her vision for carrying the company's legacy forward, the new initiatives on the horizon and how Hubbard-Hall remains committed to its mission of providing expert support with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from Molly Kellogg, a leader driven by passion, tradition and a deep connection to the people who make it all possible.
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
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
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
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
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
Carlisle Fluid Technologies- Binks, DeVilbiss, Ransburg, MS, BGK- and Owens Community College have teamed up to present Spray Finishing Technology Workshops The three-day intensive training programs are scheduled for November 6-8, 2024 in Toledo, Ohio. Classes meet from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily and include both classroom and hands-on sessions. Attendees should be involved with industrial, contractor or maintenance spray finishing applications, or spray equipment sales and distribution. Topics for the Spray Finishing Technology Workshops include: Topics for the workshop include: Equipment types and selection Equipment set-up, operation, and maintenance Surface preparation and defect analysis Material selection Safety and regulatory concerns To register, or for additional information, contact Jaime Wineland, Owens Community College, Workforce and Community Services Division, toll-free by phone at: 800-466-9367, ext.7320, or by e-mail at: jaime_wineland@owens.edu
Save The Date The New England chapter of the National Association for Surface Finishing has announced the date and location for the 2024 New England Surface Finishing Regional.
The Rise of Robotics in Powder Coating Chris Shepro with Mercury Marine will discuss how automating a paint system using robotics can increase efficiency and consistency of the coating but can have some challenges if not done correctly. This presentation will include how robots can improve your paint system, efficiency, reduced variation, and elimination of manpower issues. We will also discuss types of robots used for powder coating, full automation vs. supplemental application, integration and install setup, racking for robots, and more. Information provided is from an experience based, End User standpoint, with no specific brand or product preference. Chris has worked for Mercury Marine in the paint department for over 31 years. For the majority of those years Chris was the Powder Paint Robot Technician and served as the subject matter expert for the paint robots at Mercury Marine's global headquarters in Fond du Lac, WI. Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2024 Time: 4:30 PM Check-in | 5:00 PM Dinner & Presentation Location: Greene's Pour House 134 W Wisconsin Ave. Neenah, WI 54956 Cost: $30 Member / $45 Non-Member The registration cut-off date is November 6, 2024
The Parts Finishing trade fair, will be held for the first time at the Karlsruhe Exhibition Centre on 13 and 14 November 2024. The event features a comprehensive focus on the production steps of deburring, component cleaning and surface finishing – from standalone processes right on up to networked production lines. Further information is available at www.parts-finishing.de and from fairXperts GmbH & Co. KG, Hartmut Herdin, Hauptstrasse 7, phone: +49 (0)7025 8434-0, e-mail: info@fairxperts.de.
Registration is open for the new one-day Surface Metrology and Tribology class, which will be held in Livonia, Michigan, Nov. 14, 2024. The full day class offers a unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals of surface roughness, friction, and wear analysis, and their applications in manufacturing and product development. Topics for the one-day class include: Measuring surface roughness and waviness Instruments for surface measurement Filtering texture data Analysis techniques and tools Surface texture parameters Applications and case studies. Class details and registration are available at michmet.com/classes. Registration requests can also be made by calling 1 (866) 953-5030 or emailing info@michmet.com.
Legislative Update - Local & National & California Regulatory Issues Webinar LIVE WEBINAR – NOVEMBER 20, 2024 Join us and hear about the challenges facing our industry as the presentation will provide an update on the political climate in the State and National Capitals, as well as specifics on the key legislation and regulations that the associations have been engaged in over the last year. This year we will provide a complete recap of the November 2024 elections. Jeff Hannapel is Executive Vice President of The Policy Group and the NASF Government Relations (GR) Office in Washington, D.C. He will provide insight into the developments around the country. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from our national office. Jerry Desmond, Jr. is the MFASC and MFANC Legislative Advocate in Sacramento, he is in legislators offices daily at the State Capitol addressing our concerns. Bryan Leiker is the Executive Director of the Metal Finishing Associations of California and a Board Member of the National Association of Surface Finishing. View Flyer
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Features stories and news on the adaptations of top shops, good habits, beneficial practices and successes that make a finishing shop a "Top Shop."
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.
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.
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.
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.
Experts from MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions share industry insights in an interview from the SUR/FIN 2024 finishing industry tradeshow.
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.
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.
Finding a more accurate paint proportioner for its application enabled this auto parts manufacturer to save significant costs and labor while increasing capacity.
10 Point Checklist to Improve Your Parts Cleaning Processes
A collection of four PF features that delve into the technologies, processes and people working to provide protection for the automobiles of today.
Survey and analysis, with Hubbard-Hall, of Products Finishing Top Shops benchmarking attitudes and practices concerning parts cleaning.