Rodger Talbert shares how to identify dirt showing up on powder-coated film and where it comes from.
Over more than 30 years of annual compensation reviews, I have compiled a list of Dos and Don’ts that we follow at compensation review time and throughout the year. Anodised Finish
Every year, improper chemical handling in industrial environments leads to injury and significant financial loss. Read about how to stay safe.
In the first part, a summary is presented on recently established nanotechnology initiatives in various countries around the world. Program funding levels and core activities will be compared to provide a basis for assessing business opportunities for various industries. The second part of the paper looks at specific examples of nanostructures made by electrochemical methods currently at various stages in their development, or already in use.
Users should be aware of differences in application performance, cure response and coating performance before making the change from a traditional TGIC polyester powder coating to a TGIC-free alternative.
With advantages over dry blasting such as cleaner parts, more consistent finishes, a cleaner work environment, a higher level of process control and the ability to automate, wet blasting has virtually no limitations when used for coatings preparation.
Products Finishing rounds up some of its recent travels — from international trade shows to facility tours to legislative meetings regarding environmental regulations affecting the finishing community.
With customer service experience in his background, this powder coater started his shop on a whim and has grown the business by keeping clients’ needs at the forefront.
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.
After slowing contraction for each of four months straight, Finishing activity leveled off in April. The scenario is similar across manufacturing segments, perhaps reflecting increased conservatism as interest rates and inflation fail to come down.
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
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?
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
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
A key component to attaining the most reliable and accurate measurements is the proper use and application of the correct calibration standards, tailored to the measurement task. Achieving accurate and reliable measurements increases quality, improves manufacturing efficiency and saves valuable resources. Taking all of this into account is the goal of coating thickness measurement. Please join Rob Weber and Melissa Agneta in this webinar as they discuss the calibration standard options and best practices for X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and dry film thickness (DFT) measurement instruments. Agenda: Instrument verification vs. calibration Different types of standards available for XRF and DFT guages Benefits of ISO 17025 traceable standards Recertification of standards for ISO compliance
After years of speculation and discussion, several factors have recently aligned to jumpstart a rapid industry movement in the switch from decorative hexavalent to trivalent plating. Across the industry, process and color standards are being adapted, RFQs are circulating and OEMs need shops who are equipped and ready. Applicators facing the decision-making process need to be prepared. There are a variety of conversations taking place globally and throughout the automotive industry on the use of sulfate vs. chloride and this webinar will address that discussion head-on, reviewing the pros and cons of each. Columbia Chemical will delve into the extensive field study tests outlining performance, color stability and corrosion results, and will provide an evaluation of new heat treatment data comparing the systems. Finally, it will provide an operational overview and cost comparison to aid in the decision making. Applicators, OEMs and Tier suppliers, design and materials engineers, and quality control will all benefit from this presentation. Agenda: Review of the pros and cons of chloride vs. sulfate Extensive field testing overview Evaluation of new heat treatment data Line adjustments: installation, operational overview and cost comparison
The Chicago Surface Finishing Foundation (CSFF) is proud to present this free training session to our members. Rectifiers need constant monitoring & maintenance for optimal performance. When an issue does arise, having a fundamental understanding of Preventative Maintenance and Troubleshooting of a rectifier will help minimize any down time. Our Presenter: Enrique "Ricky" Valentin, Project Manager for American Plating Power This Presentation will cover: Preventative Maintenance Activities The Benefits of a Preventative Maintenance Program When does Preventative Maintenance make Sense? Rectifier Preventative Maintenance Do's and Don’ts of Cleaning a Rectifier Visual Inspection Electrical Test & Troubleshooting of SCR and Switch Mode Rectifiers Registration for this event will come from the CSFF's Constant Contact REGISTER HERE
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!
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.
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/
FABTECH 2024 will be held October 15-17, 2024, in Orlando, Florida, at the Orange County Convention Center. FABTECH provides a convenient ‘one-stop shop’ venue where you can meet with world-class suppliers, discover innovative solutions, and find the tools to improve productivity and increase profits. There is no better opportunity to network, share knowledge and explore the latest technology, all here in one place. Future U.S. Show Dates and Locations 2025 – September 8-11 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL 2026 – October 21-23 at Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV 2027 – September 13-16 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL
The Industrial Heating Equipment Association (IHEA) will hold an Industrial Heating Decarbonization SUMMIT October 28-30 at the Conrad Indianapolis. “Forging a Sustainable Path for the Industrial Heating Industry,” the SUMMIT will provide a platform for everyone needing to explore all facets of decarbonization as they relate to the industrial process heating industry. For more information visit www.ihea.org
Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.
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.
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.
The grit wheels and discs are designed to stay sharper longer.
The EcoGun Ace features a rapid change system for color changes, making color changes faster and simpler.
Reduced ion electroless nickel technology operates at lower metal concentrations than conventional EN and has an important role in the future of sustainable EN processes.
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.
Chicago Anodizing Company continues to grow its 75-year old business by investing in its people and partners, and by embracing new technologies.
Chicago Anodizing Company has run as a family-owned business based in Chicago’s west side for more than 75 years. Photo Credit: All images courtesy of Chicago Anodizing Company
Chicago Anodizing Company (CAC) first opened in Chicago’s Westside in 1947. The company is a third-generation family-owned business. John Serritella, president of CAC, has been with the company for 40 years. Today, Serritella continues to run it as a family-owned business with his sons John Jr. and Chris as the VP of sales and the production manager, respectively. The company injects that family approach into everything it does, putting people first when it comes to relationships with both its employees and its customers.
“We truly value the customer relationship,” says Serritella, referencing the company’s motto: “Building Partnerships One Finish at a Time.”
CAC provides finishes for a variety of industries including automotive, aerospace, medical, electronics, construction and infrastructure. Within each market, the company puts an emphasis on how best to help its partners serve their customers, using knowledge of different industries to tailor certain value added services for specific programs. At its core, CAC is an anodizer, but the company strives to offer pre and post services to differentiate itself from its competition. These services include mechanical finishing prior to anodizing, laser marking after anodizing, assembly, and inventory management.
Serritella offers this example: “A large segment of our businesses is related to the tool storage industry where our partners’ products need to be finished to very specific customer requirements, such as bright finishes, custom color matching or satin finishes. We then ship direct to our customers’ customer. We take on that level of responsibility to ensure our customers’ products meet 100% quality requirements and meets 100% on time delivery. We meet every customer specification that’s required of us. Whether it’s for the anodizing, or taking care of all the assembly, packaging, inventory control, electronic barcoding of all products. Our team at CAC wants our customers to trust us as their partner as a one stop shop for all their finishing requirements. From start to finish we want to handle all of it for our customers.”
CAC supplies Type II finishes to a wide variety of industries and processes a vast array of parts including precision screw machined components, machined CNC components, fabricated metal parts, metal stampings and more.
CAC’s 70,000 square foot facility boasts two full-service anodizing lines, a full-service bright dip line, more than 25 in-house custom colors, hand polish and buffing machines, as well as laser marking robotic cells.
The company specializes in the following:
CAC is one of the few anodizers in the country that offers bright dip prior to anodizing. This chemical pretreatment enhances the sheen of the metal and gives it a polished appearance.
Serritella says that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find a good finishing partner for some of these processes due to increasing pressure from environmental regulations. “Bright dip anodizing is becoming a more and more difficult process,” he says. “Environmentally, a lot of operations can’t do it. When we bought the business five and a half years ago, we made a 1.5-million-dollar investment in all new fume scrubbers, ventilation makeup, air systems, rectifiers and refrigeration equipment that has really set us up for the next 15–20 years of growth for our business.”
CAC is certified for the following specifications: MIL-A-8625 for its Type II and III anodizing, MIL-DTL-5541 for its conversion coatings, and AAMA 600 and AAMA 611 for its architectural work.
Type III, also known as hardcoat anodizing, utilizes sulfuric acid with low temperatures and high voltage to create an extremely hard, durable surface finish.
Chromate conversion coatings are used on aluminum alloys and castings for corrosion resistance and improved paint adhesion.
In addition to its anodizing processes, CAC offers several other services including color matching and development, blasting, polishing and buffing, brushing, laser marking and masking. The company offers finishes in more than 25 in-house colors, and also can supply custom color matching and development.
“If it’s not a standard off the shelf color, we will blend the colors specific to their need and be able to match that from part one to part 10 million,” Serritella says.
CAC employs state-of-the-art laser technology for marking finished components.
Laser marking is one area where the company has implemented automation solutions. CAC boasts three robotics cells comprising five Zetalase XL machines, which offer a variety of highly configurable applications for processing large components as well as large fixtures of parts. CAC uses this MOPA (master oscillator power amplifier) fiber laser technology to offer marking capabilities on anodized aluminum, as well as carbide, painted or coated materials, most plastics, and all additional metals.
Serritella says CAC is happy to invest in new equipment for new programs that have a higher volume demand.
“When we took on the programs for the speaker grills that we run in volumes, we felt it necessary to use robotics not only to address the repetition of the work, but also to achieve the required quality. Every laser mark is done within 1,000th of an inch for every grill component that is run. We have camera systems on those robotic cells to ensure that those part markings are 100% to the customers’ specifications.”
CAC takes pride in the loyalty and dedication of its employees and works to put people first in its strategy for growth.
CAC prides itself on the dedication of its staff. The company has around 85 employees with an average of around 22 years of service per employee. Serritella says that even during the COVID pandemic, the company was able to maintain its staffing levels.
“They have been unbelievable with their work through the COVID situation,” he says. “Understanding what we went through as a business, and they were with us 100%.”
CAC takes that loyalty to heart and the company keeps its employees’ best interests in mind whenever it considers its growth opportunities. The addition of automation, for example, is not aimed at replacing people but rather at helping to elevate their position or the nature of their work within the company.
“Bringing in robotics helped us to not only acquire the type of work that we wanted to get into and to be better at it, but it also freed up funds to give our people better raises — to give them the things that they need so they can support their families. We take care of our employees,” Serritella says. “When you bring in robotics, it can help alleviate some of those tasks that are a little bit monotonous. And it allows us to keep reinvesting in our people in our teams.”
That idea of investing in people is something that CAC truly strives for. The company is also exploring community outreach programs to area high schools, community colleges and universities with the hope of educating a new generation about the career potential the finishing industry has to offer. The company has found longtime employees by investing in students for summer help and looks to do more with internships and educational opportunities.
“We want to continue to invest in the future by bringing in more people and educating them — getting them into a better spot and allowing them to make more money. That’s our goal,” Serritella says.
Choosing the best process for your operation.
This important first step can help prepare the metal for subsequent surface finishing.
From humble beginnings as an Indiana-based tin shop, Koch Finishing Systems has evolved into one of the most trusted finishing equipment providers in the industry.
Understanding the differences in cracking and crazing in anodic coatings, and insights for mitigating defects in anodized parts.
New tools reduce cost and waste, lower manufacturing footprint of powder coating operations.
Although Chevrolet has announced the end of the Camaro and Dodge is offering “Last Call” editions of the Charger and Challenger, the Ford Mustang is launching to its seventh generation.
Hubbard-Hall wastewater treatment specialist Robin Deal discusses the latest trends in wastewater management.
Hot Forging Machine Products Finishing is the media brand devoted to all things finishing. Electroplaters, anodizers, liquid and powder coaters have all come to rely on Products Finishing magazine as their No. 1 source for surface finishing news and technology for more than 80 years. About Us