Ask The Expert
Using Solvents to Your Advantage
With so many solvent variations it can be different to choose the ones you need for your liquid coating process. In this helpful Products Finishing Ask the Expert article, Don Boespflug of Sherwin-Williams discusses the considerations you should keep in mind when selecting a solvent.
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.
Read MoreHow 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.
Read MoreThe Lowdown on Infrared Curing
In this Q&A, infrared curing’s ins and outs are covered by Carlisle Fluid Technologies, including how it works, why its a popular curing type and the benefits of it.
Read MoreCorrosion Protection Options for Aluminum
Seeking to understand aluminum corrosion and prevention? Jacob Weingart of Columbia Chemical offers a helpful overview of corrosion protection options for aluminum and its alloys.
Read MoreBlasting vs. Washing
Weighing your surface prep options prior to powder coating? Products Finishing columnist Rodger Talbert discusses the considerations you should keep in mind.
Read MoreMeasuring Thick Nickel on Aluminum or Steel
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.
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Get in the Lab: Investing in Automation
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.
Liquid Chrome Vs. Chromic Acid Flake
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.
Read MoreFactors Affecting Frictional Properties of Plated Bolts
To better control the friction in a bolted joint, it is essential to understand all the factors affecting it, including lubricant and topcoat.
Read MoreHaving a Blast: Best Practices for Media Blasting
5 considerations for media blasting as surface preparation for coatings.
Read MorePowder Coating Chipping on Aluminum Extrusion
The only way to get reliable results with powder on aluminum that will be used outdoors is to use an aluminum conversion coating that neutralizes the surface so the oxide cannot rapidly reform, according to Rodger Talbert.
Read MoreSoftware Can Make Job Shops Profitable
Steelhead Technologies’ Jeffrey Halonen answers two questions about how using software increases profitability.
Read MoreThe Benefits of Electroless Nickel Plating
Looking to add electroless nickel to your capabilities? This overview can help you understand the benefits of EN and appropriate applications.
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Tackling Common Cleaning Challenges
These four cleaning problems have practical solutions that, when followed properly, can be successful.
Selecting high-capacity anodizing tanks
Process tanks are the foundation of finishing. Asa Halliday of Tri-Mer Corp. discusses considerations to keep in mind when selecting anodizing tanks.
Read MoreFactors Affecting Job Shop Profitability
Powder coating expert Rodger Talbert answers a question about procedures that affect profitability, including quoting methods.
Read MorePowder Coating Automation Can Reach ESG Goals for Automotive Parts
By adopting the robotic process automation (RPA) powder applicator, a plant can make significant savings for both the environment and the bottom line.
Read MoreConductivity and Plating
Eric Xie of PAVCO Inc. discusses conductivity when considering the combination of plating metal deposits, passivates and topcoats/sealers.
Read MoreAvoiding Powder Coating Defects on TGIC-Free Metallic
ChemQuest’s Kevin Biller shares how to omit pinholes and voids when powder coating.
Read MoreReducing Hardness for Polyester Resin
ChemQuest’s Kevin Biller answers the question of how to reduce hardness on a polyester resin for powder coating.
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Understanding Shot Peening
A look inside shot peening — a process of “hammering” of work pieces with precisely defined blast media.
3-Stage Versus 5-Stage Washers
Columnist Rodger Talbert explains the difference between a five-stage washer and a three-stage washer, and how one provides better corrosion protection over the other.
Read MoreDirt in the Powder Coated Film
Rodger Talbert shares how to identify dirt showing up on powder-coated film and where it comes from.
Read MoreProper Chemical Handling for Plating
Every year, improper chemical handling in industrial environments leads to injury and significant financial loss. Read about how to stay safe.
Read MoreTorque Tension Modifiers
Matt Schario of Columbia Chemical discusses the principles of torque tension and why it is a concern for platers who coat fasteners.
Read MoreTrends in Plating on Plastic
As plastics have become more ubiquitous, the demand for metal plating of plastics has increased.
Read MoreFilm Thickness Control
Have a powder coating job that requires precise film thickness control? Products Finishing columnist Rodger Talbert offers advice controlling the variables that can impact your success.
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