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25 Jun 2024 Pollution Control
NASF/AESF Foundation Research Project #122: Electrochemical Approaches to Treatment of PFAS in Plating Wastewater - 12th Quarterly Report
This NASF-AESF Foundation research project report covers the 12th quarter of project work (October – December 2023) at the University of Georgia. In our previous report, we described our work on performance and effect of surface fluorinated Ti4O7 anodes on PFAS degradation in reactive electrochemical membrane (REM) mode. This quarter, our experiments involved utilizing porous Ti4O7 plates serving both as anodes and membranes. Tests compared pristine and F-18.6 Ti4O7 anodes at current densities of 10 mA/cm2 and 40 mA/cm2. This 12th quarterly report discusses the mechanisms of the effects on EO performance by anode surface fluorination.

27 Aug 2024 management
The Disconnected American Worker
Virtual meetings and the ability to work remotely have created new flexibility in how we work, but at what cost?

12 Aug 2024 economics
Top Shop Pivots With Industry Demands
Moving from cars and motorcycles to its current aerospace and architecture customer base, this California powder coatings shop has evolved and grown with the changing market.

18 Jul 2024 racking
FABTECH 2024 Heads to Orlando
CCAI’s FINISHING Pavilion and Conference continues to grow at FABTECH, offering insights and innovations covering all aspects of industrial surface finishing.

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.

20 Aug 2024 Powder Coating
Powder 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.

12 Aug 2024
Overall Finishing Activity Accelerated Contraction in June, Closing at 44.0
Finishing activity accelerated contraction for the second month in a row, down 2.5 points from May. Two months does not a trend make, but it does suggest that some degree of softening is real. Because contraction is common across industry segments reinforces that likelihood.

19 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.

5 Aug 2024 Parts Cleaning
Clean Chemistry for Fuel Cell Technology
Leading efforts to improve hydrogen fuel cell efficiency, this Indiana company has developed chemistry that cleans the inorganic contaminants from inside a vehicle’s radiator. This results in cleaner coolant and a more efficiently run hydrogen fuel cell.

6 Aug 2024 Ask The Expert
The 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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Webinars See All

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
Which Throws the Harder Punch in Metal Finishing Wastewater Treatment: Chemical or Biologics?
But is chemical removal or biological removal better for your operation? Or maybe it is a combination of the two for the knockout punch? Chemical removal has a long track record of proven success and is readily available, cost-effective and affords ease of operation. Biological removal is used as a final polish to achieve permit limits and reduce disposal costs. These microorganisms work under aerobic and anaerobic conditions with no caustics or acids as to not cause harm to pipes or wastewater equipment. During this webinar, you will learn about how to implement a total wastewater system that will ultimately have you using less chemistry. Agenda: When would you use chemical vs biologics for wastewater treatment — or can you use both? Who should consider using biologics for wastewater treatment? What do you need to know about maintaining a biologic system?

On Demand
Which Packs the Bigger Pretreatment Punch: Iron Phosphate or Zirconium?
Zirconium conversion coatings provide advanced bonding and anti-corrosion treatment for all metals. They are formulated to replace conventional iron or zinc phosphate products in pretreatment applications with environmental, energy and wastewater treatment advantages. During this lively debate, our experts will help you decide which process will pack the bigger pretreatment punch for you – or will it be a combination of both? Agenda: Advantages and disadvantages of each application type Optimizing your process for reducing chemical consumption and cost Regulatory issues to be aware of

On Demand
Wastewater Recovery: Applications, Treatment and Smart Technology Solutions
Wastewaters from metal finishing, production and cleaning processes may contain a number of contaminants that require removal to either compliantly discharge the wastewater or reuse it within your facility. Treatment for recovery and reuse sounds good — but is it appropriate for your wastewater and your process? If recovery is suitable, how do you accomplish it and what are the benefits? In this webinar, Evoqua Water Technologies will discuss applications, treatment and smart technology solutions for wastewater recovery, including a real-life example that resulted in improved operational efficiency. Agenda: Typical metal processing wastewater contaminants and conditions Points to consider when deciding if wastewater recovery makes sense Technologies — such as ion exchange and reverse osmosis — for wastewater recovery Digitally-enhanced ion exchange wastewater recovery How digitally-enhanced wastewater recovery can benefit your process and facility

3 Sep 2024 New & Upcoming
Exploring Powder Coatings: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Register Now
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22 Aug 2024
CCAI Northern Illinois Golf Tournament
The 2024 CCAI Northern Illinois Golf Outing is a great way to network with others in the finishing industry while having a good time! Don't miss this great industry networking event. Funds raised during the golf outing will go towards the CCAI Northern Illinois Chapter Scholarship Program. The outing is now at Orchard Valley Golf Course. Experience one of Chicagoland’s top five courses, Orchard Valley Golf Course features an 18-hole, 6,800-yard, par-72 championship layout, unparalleled guest service, and is open to the public. During the tournament, players will find challenges to test their skills. Each challenge winner will be presented with an award at the end of dinner. The challenges will consist of the following: Longest Drive - Men Longest Drive - Women Longest Putt Closest to the Hole Best 4-Team Scramble Score DATE: Thursday, August 22, 2024 TIME: 8:00 am Registration Opens 9:00 am Shotgun Start Lunch, awards and raffle prizes following golf LOCATION: Orchard Valley Golf Course 2411 West Illinois Ave Aurora, IL 60506 630-907-0500 www.orchardvalleygolf.com COST: $120 per golfer Includes: 18 Hole Greens Fees Driving range 2 beverage tickets 1 Golf Cart per 2 Players CCAI gift Lunch REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE to register.

10 Sep 2024
Parts Cleaning Conference at IMTS 2024
Debuting in 2010, the Parts Cleaning Conference is the leading and most trusted manufacturing and industrial parts cleaning forum focused solely on delivering quality technical information in the specialized field of machined parts cleansing. Providing guidance and training to understand the recognized sets of standards for industrial cleaning, every year the Conference showcases industry experts who present educational sessions on the latest and most pressing topics affecting manufacturing facilities today. Discover all that the 2022 Parts Cleaning Conference has to offer!

12 Sep 2024
MCTA Annual Golf Tournament
Save September 12, 2024 for MCTA's Annual Golf Tournament Proceeds Benefit for the Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair Scholarship Fund Save the Date to Play MCTA’s Annual Swing for Science Golf Tournament Have fun while doing good! Proceeds benefit the Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair Scholarship Fund https://scifair.com When: Thursday, September 12th, 2024 Where: Highfields Golf & Country Club 42 McGill Drive, Grafton, MA, 01519 Schedule: 9 am – Registration 10 am – Shotgun Start 2:30 – Reception and Awards Please consider becoming a Sponsor

16 Sep 2024
NASF Washington Forum
The Forum includes presentations and briefings from national and global experts on pertinent policy, technical, regulatory, and management issues impacting the surface finishing industry, including environmental regulatory issues, labor and workplace trends, tax policy, economic outlooks, supply chain challenges, globally regulatory developments, and political and election outlooks. Recent speakers at the Forum have included Jake Sherman- Founder, Punchbowl News, Jeff Weiss- Partner, Steptoe & Johnson, LLP, Marc Freedman- Vice President of Employment Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and Michael Chipley- Cyber Security & Information Systems Information Analysis Center. In addition, Washington Forum Participants also have the option during the event to meet with their own congressional representatives and staff to educate them about the importance and impact of the surface finishing industry, the challenges facing companies, and specific policy priorities of concern. For Washington Forum Questions or NASF Membership Inquiries, contact NASF at info@nasf.org.

17 Sep 2024
IHEA Fall Seminars and Tabletop Exhibition
The Industrial Heating Equipment Association (IHEA) will conduct their annual Combustion and Safety Standards and Codes Seminars, September 17 & 18, at the Westin Poinsett in Greenville, South Carolina. The Fall Seminars also feature a joint Tabletop Exhibition & Reception on Tuesday afternoon, September 17. This allows attendees of both seminars the chance for additional one-on-one interaction with suppliers from across the industrial heating marketplace. IHEA’s Combustion Seminar features 16 sessions designed to give attendees vast exposure to combustion technology. Some of the topics covered include chemistry and efficiency of combustion, flame safety requirements of combustion systems, process and ratio controls with exposure to micro-processor equipment, types of industrial burners available, supply and control of the fuel and air for systems, and preheated combustion air and furnace recuperators. The seminar also now features a session on hydrogen combustion and decarbonization. This two-day course is led by subject matter experts in a non-commercial environment. The Safety Standards and Codes Seminar provides a comprehensive overview of the NFPA 86 standard. The seminar will highlight the recent updates that appear in the 2023 edition of NPFA 86 Standards for Ovens & Furnaces. This class will be taught by several instructors who were heavily involved with the 2023 revision and will include discussion of the updates as well as an extensive explanation of several critical safety topics. Sessions will cover the required uses of the American National Standards governing the compliant design and operation of ovens and furnaces. You can register now for either seminar at https://www.ihea.org/Fall24. A Tuesday evening joint Tabletop Exhibition & Reception will take place at the conclusion of the first day of seminar sessions. The tabletop exhibition showcases a variety of products and services for the heat processing industry and includes a networking reception with hors d'oeuvres and drinks. The event allows attendees to meet with speakers, exhibitors, and other attendees to further discuss the concepts learned during the seminars. Tabletop space and sponsorships are available now. Reserve your tabletop and sponsorship today so your company can benefit with listings in promotional materials from now until the event. Complete details are available at https://www.ihea.org/event/TT24. Registration fees for the seminars include admission to one seminar, seminar materials, breakfast, lunch and refreshment breaks on Tuesday and Wednesday, and the tabletop exhibition & reception. Upon completion of the seminars, attendees will be issued a certificate documenting 15 Professional Development Hours (PDHs). There is a group discount available for two or more registrants from the same company who register at the same time. The first registrant will pay the full registration fee and each subsequent registrant will receive a $125 discount. Seminar details and registration information can be found at https://www.ihea.org/Fall24.

4 Oct 2024
MFASC/MFANC Annual Fall Outing
The Metal Finishers of California Fall Outing and annual meeting this year will be held from Friday, October 4, 2024, to Sunday, October 6, 2024. Register ASAP, and ensure your spot! Boutique Hotel on the Beach, within Carlsbad Village. The Village has many great attractions in walking distance from the Hotel. Price: Resort Guest Room: $1,350 per couple or $1,050 per single; 2 nights (Fri. – Sat.) Price Includes: 2 Nights Lodging at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort MFASC/MFANC Annual Meeting on Friday (everyone welcome) Friday Evening cocktail reception and networking event Saturday Night cocktail and dinner event Optional Saturday afternoon activities will be announced soon For more info or to register: https://mfaca.org/product/mfasc-fall-outing-2024/

17 Aug 2024 New & Upcoming
MFANC Summer Outing 2024 Register Now
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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

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 automotive
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 Liquid Coating
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.

20 Sep 2023
Abrasive Wheels, Discs Provide Fast Metal Removal
The grit wheels and discs are designed to stay sharper longer.
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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economics 12 Aug 2024

Top Shop Pivots With Industry Demands
12 Aug 2024

Overall Finishing Activity Accelerated Contraction in June, Closing at 44.0
9 Aug 2024

Plating Automation Turns Controls Up a Notch
6 Aug 2024

Products Finishing and the Changing Media Landscape
Ask The Expert 6 Aug 2024

The Benefits of Electroless Nickel Plating
Parts Cleaning 5 Aug 2024

Clean Chemistry for Fuel Cell Technology
Ask The Expert 5 Aug 2024

Selecting high-capacity anodizing tanks
3 Aug 2024

Carlisle Fluid Technologies Announces New Account Manager
Powder Coating 30 Jul 2024

Factors Affecting Job Shop Profitability
Powder Coating 30 Jul 2024

Powder Coating Automation Can Reach ESG Goals for Automotive Parts

economics

economics 18 Jul 2022

Finishing Activity: Expansion Slowed Again in June, Closing at 54.5 Index

June is just the second month of slowed expansion for Finishing this year.

economics 15 Jun 2022

Finishing Activity: May Expansion Slowed, Closing at an Index of 57.3

May marks the first slowing of Finishing’s expansion this year, the time prior being December 2021.

economics 23 May 2022

Finishing Activity: ‘Slow and steady…’ Generally Describes April

April index stayed about the same at 59.6 (slowing down just two-thirds of a point vs. March)

economics 3 May 2022

Finishing Activity: dare we say ‘ditto’ for March?

March index stays the same at 60.3

economics 14 Mar 2022

Finishing Activity Maintains Turn Around into 2022

February Index Up Slightly at 60.3

economics 25 Feb 2022

Finishing Activity Bounces Back in New Year

Index Posts 3-Point Turn Around After Weak Close to 2021

Electroplating 3 Feb 2022

Acid Zinc-Nickel Benefits Market Share

Stephen Roberts of Columbia Chemical discusses the advantages of adding acid zinc-nickel capabilities to your plating operation.

economics 20 Jan 2022

Finishing Activity Ends Year on A Low Note

Index Ends Year Below Where It Started

economics 5 Jan 2022

Protech Group Acquires Dyvex Industries

Dyvex Industries is a plastic compound manufacturer for fragrance, flavor and odor control products. The Protech Group will seek to leverage Dyvex Industries’ market within the coatings industry, including thermoset powder, thermoplastics, liquid and specialty materials.

economics 20 Dec 2021

Finishers Note Changing Supply Chain and Production Levels

Production and employment both register quickening activity.

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