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4 Jun 2024 Ask The Expert
Dirt in the Powder Coated Film
Rodger Talbert shares how to identify dirt showing up on powder-coated film and where it comes from.

10 Jun 2024
The Dos and Don’ts of Employee Compensation
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.

30 May 2024 Ask The Expert
Proper 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.

1 Jun 2024 Electroplating
Electroplating in the Context of Worldwide Nanotechnology Initiatives: A Heritage Paper
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.

28 May 2024 Powder Coating
From TGIC-Based Polyester Powder Coating to TGIC-Free Alternative
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.

24 Jun 2024 Parts Cleaning
Soak In the Benefits of Wet Blasting for Coatings Prep
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.

28 May 2024 sustainability
Conferences, Trade Shows, Tours and Events
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.

17 Jun 2024 Powder Coating
Top Shop Tops Turnaround Times
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.

13 Jun 2024 Powder Coating
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.

6 Jun 2024
Finishing Activity Closing at 47.7 for the Second Month in a Row
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.
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December 2023
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Webinars See All

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

On Demand
Correct Use and Implementation of XRF and DFT Calibration Standards
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

On Demand
Decorative Trivalent Plating: Choosing Between Chloride and Sulfate
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

On Demand
Beyond the Surface: Maximizing Efficiency in Plating Baths Through XRF Analysis Register Now
Calendar See All

20 Jun 2024
Chicago Midwest NASF Virtual Training: Preventive Maintenance & Troubleshooting of Rectifiers
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

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!

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.

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/

15 Oct 2024
FABTECH 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

28 Oct 2024
Industrial Heating Decarbonization Summit
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

19 Jun 2024 New & Upcoming
MFASC Training: Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan 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

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.

12 Sep 2023
Low-Pressure Spray Gun for Color Changes, No Need for Solvents
The EcoGun Ace features a rapid change system for color changes, making color changes faster and simpler.

11 Sep 2023
Reduced Ion Electroless Nickel to Meet a Sustainable Future
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.
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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