AkzoNobel is supporting the needs of North America’s architects, designers and OEMs with the launch of its Structura range of Interpon D powder coatings.

The range offers 40 of the most popular RAL colors. Their fine textured finish gives aluminum and steel surfaces an intriguing sense of quality and depth, with significantly higher gloss retention and strong resistance to color change, the company says.

The Structura range is designed for exceptional durability and weatherability, making it ideal for surfaces that may be challenged by a diverse range of climates. The range boasts a 20-year integrity warranty on the coating performance when applied by an Interpon D approved applicator and meets the performance requirements of AMAA 2604.

The textured finish of the coating gives it better resistance to scratching and marring, reducing the need for touch ups or respraying. The finish also helps cover minor defects on the substrate. The durability of Structura helps make the coating more sustainable by extending the time between cleans, so less water and fewer chemicals are needed.

The Structura range is backed by an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). This means the raw materials, manufacture and transportation associated with creating this latest Interpon innovation have been assessed by an independent third-party for transparent sustainability credentials.

Rösler’s compact RWK 6/12-2 swing chamber shot blast machine is equipped with automated workpiece handling and can easily be integrated into linked manufacturing lines, requiring very little space. In addition, the furnished digitization software package from Rösler Smart Solutions provides complete process and cost transparency and minimizes the overall personnel requirements.

The swing chamber shot blast machine can be used for all kinds of shot blast applications such as surface cleaning, de-sanding and descaling, surface homogenization and sophisticated shot peening operations. The workpieces treated in this machine include all kinds of castings and forgings, machined components, welded sheet metal parts and technical springs.

With its surprisingly small footprint, the compact shot blast machine requires little space when integrated into linked manufacturing lines. Specially prepared interfaces in the machine controls facilitate the quick connection to higher-level production control systems. A standard industrial robot handles the workpieces by placing them into the blast chamber and removing them after completion of the blast cycle. This task requires very little programming effort. A special clamping mechanism in the blast chamber holds the workpieces in place during the shot blast process.

In its standard version, the RWK 6/12-2 can handle workpieces with diameters of up to 600 mm and lengths of up to 1,200 mm. The clever dual chamber design enables the workpiece loading/unloading in one chamber, while the shot blast process takes place in the second chamber. This can almost eliminate unproductive times. The machine is equipped with two Gamma G turbines, which guarantee short cycle times and energy-saving operation. The installed power of the turbines and their placement on the blast chamber is always adapted to the respective shot blasting task. These turbines are equipped with curved throwing blades in “Y” design.

Compared to conventional turbines, the special blade form produces a significantly higher media throwing speed. This results in a 20% higher shot blast performance with a significantly lower energy consumption. Overall, cost savings of up to 25% can be achieved producing overall excellent efficiency of the entire shot blasting operation.

Another benefit of the “Y” shaped blade design is that both sides of the throwing blades can be used. This practically doubles their usable life. With a quick-change system, the throwing blades can be easily replaced without having to remove the turbine from its housing. Idle equipment times are, therefore, minimized.

The machine also has a wear-resistant design: The blast chamber is made from manganese steel and is additionally lined with easily replaceable wear plates made from a low-wearing material.

Digitization modules from Rösler Smart Solutions software package is designed to lower the operational costs and personnel requirements through intelligent process and equipment controls. At its center is the active monitoring and analysis of various machine components and process parameters. 

Industries such as automotive, aerospace and medical engineering frequently demand complete documentation of the operational data to control the compliance with precisely defined and validated process parameters. With the Smart Solutions modules Rösler also helps optimize the preventive maintenance of the equipment by keeping track of the operating hours, recorded uptime statistics and the automatic release of spare parts orders. 

Nordac ON/ON+ variable frequency drives (VFDs) deliver intelligent control of conveyor systems with an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface to improve efficiency, reduce system variants and optimize performance, the company says.

These VFDs are available in three frame sizes for scalable functionality. They have been engineered for the specific requirements of horizontal conveyor technology and feature integrated functions to optimize operation performance, an integrated Ethernet interface, full plug-and-play capability, and a compact design.

They feature two base versions: a version designed for combination with IE3 asynchronous motors (NORDAC ON) and a version optimized for use with IE5+ synchronous motors (NORDAC ON+). Both versions offer compact frame sizes that can be motor- or wall-mounted based on the application and space requirements. The drives can be used over a speed range, enabling variant reduction for large intralogistics systems and streamlining operation.

Nordac ON supports a power range of 0.50 – 3.00 hp while ON+ supports 0.50 – 4.00 hp. As with all NORD variable frequency drives, the ON/ON+ is equipped with a dynamic internal PLC for drive related functions. It can process data from connected sensors and actuators, initiate control sequences, and communicate drive and application data to the control center, networked components or to cloud storage. For this purpose, the VFDs have an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface for easy integration into automation systems. Whether for ProfiNet, EtherCAT, or EtherNet/IP, the required protocol can be easily set via drive parameters. Firmware updates can also be implemented via Ethernet.

In addition to simple configuration, ON/ON+ VFDs offer quick installation and maintenance with full plug-and-play functionality. The 24 V DC supply for control and communication is integrated into the three-phase 400 V supply connected to the drive via a six-pole connector. A daisy chain connector can also be used to supply power to multiple drives, optimizing cable lengths and significantly reduce wiring efforts.

ON/ON+ VFDs include a variety of integrated functions to improve conveyor efficiency and integrate seamlessly with Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) environments. These functions include integrated sensors via digital inputs, LED indicators for quick and simple diagnostics, an energy-saving function for optimized efficiency in partial load operation, and brake management for precise control of an electromagnetic holding brake for wear-free brake actuation. Optional functions such as Safe Torque Off (STO), Safe Stop (SS1-t), and internal braking resistors are also available for configuration.
With their scalable functionality and dynamic control, ON/ON+ variable frequency drives are suitable for a range of environments, particularly those in warehousing, post and parcel, airport technology, and other large-scale intralogistics applications. 

Walmec North America’s AMD-035 membrane dryer is designed for sensitive compressed air applications that require clean and dry air. The dryer has four-stage pre-filtration that the company claims is critical to its longevity and function. It has a flow rating of 35 standard cfm and a maximum working pressure of 150 psi.

The first and second stage filters remove moisture, liquids, dust, rust, scale and other contaminants to 5 microns. A float drain under the second stage filter opens and expels all collected liquids whenever an ounce or more is present. The drain is designed to be fully automatic with no continuous air loss. The third and fourth stages remove any remaining particles down to 0.01 micron as well as absorbing any remaining moisture or oil vapors. The dryer lowers the humidity level by venting this moisture harmlessly into the surrounding atmosphere. A flexible input hose assembly is designed to eliminate the hazards of damage from vibrations in piped compressed air systems and, the company claims, enables the membrane dryer itself, to be installed in any position. 

The four-stage pre-filtration includes differential pressure gages and comes with mounting brackets. The differential pressure gages provide a visual indication of required maintenance which can be done by installing the appropriate service kits without removing the unit from the compressed air system.

PPG has launched its Nexeon 810 coating, a copper-free antifoulant developed with an emphasis on vessel performance, emissions reduction and sustainability. The company claims that the surface of the coating can yield a boost in power and enhance operational efficiency because of improved fouling control performance, depending on the vessel and operating conditions.

Furthermore, the company asserts that using Nexeon 810 coating reduces fuel consumption and lowers greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, enabling a vessel to sustain higher speeds while helping vessel owners and operators remain compliant with the carbon intensity indicator (CII) requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The coating’s formula can reportedly achieve a total reduction of up to 25% in GHG emissions compared to traditional antifouling coatings and supports 60 days of idle time resistance with minimal speed loss.

The coating is designed to offer controlled and predictable solubility, to promote strong performance throughout the vessel’s operational period. The coating is also suitable for electrostatic application and offers color retention throughout the service life of the vessel.

“PPG Nexeon 810 coating provides the ultimate combination of advanced coatings technology with improved vessel performance and responsible environmental protection,” says Joanna van Helmond, PPG global product manager, antifoulants, protective and marine coatings. “Thanks to PPG’s sustainably advantaged product development process, our customers can enjoy easier application and improved coating performance across the operating life of their vessels.”

The copper-free technology in Nexeon 810 coating is characterized by a reduced biocide content. PPG says its binder technology enables the gradual release and operation of the biocides near the surface, and upon entering the water, the combined effects of sunlight and ocean bacteria kickstart the breakdown of these organic biocides.

The potential for electrostatic application is a significant benefit that the company says is not available in conventional antifouling coatings. The transfer efficiency achieved through electrostatic spraying reportedly provides a uniform film as well as a decrease in overspray and waste, resulting in a reduction in paint consumption and improved health and safety benefits when compared to airless spraying.

Lorin Industries Inc., a global producer of coil anodized aluminum, now offers building information modeling (BIM) files for its anodized aluminum colors and finishes, which are available for direct download from its website. This feature of the website, the company says, enables architects, engineers and contractors to directly access BIM files which enable streamlined and collaborative design and build processes. For those architectural firms that use RIB’s SpecLink software, Lorin’s products can be specced directly from RIB.

The benefits of anodized aluminum for architectural applications are far ranging, according to Lorin. Anodized aluminum reportedly provides a durable solution that does not chip, flake or peel. The company says this durability combines with natural beauty to bring long-lasting aesthetics to products ranging from cladding and roofing systems to interior panels, decorative applications and other possibilities. Lorin also maintains that the colors and finishes of its anodized aluminum contribute to its appearance.

Architects, engineers and contractors looking to integrate Lorin’s anodized aluminum into their next project can visualize its impact on their projects using BIM. To streamline this process, the company now offers BIM files for its finishes directly on its website. BIM is notable for enabling a collaborative approach to design and build, representing both the functional systems, such as electrical and HVAC systems, and the aesthetic aspects of a project, such as roofs and walls. 

Serfilco’s SerPure Filtration System is a simple, low-cost water purification system that offers compliant water discharge and recycling of significant amounts of water. It is within reach of many surface treatment facilities that are normally constrained by the high investment and running costs of reverse osmosis, ion exchange and chemical dosing systems. The system typically has an investment cost that is one-fifth of the available legacy technologies and running costs that are 80% lower, making it the most cost-effective way to achieve compliance and to obtain reusable water.

The SerPure Filtration System uses CeraMol media, which can reduce or eliminate a variety of contaminants including aluminum, organics, iron and other metals – along with an acid neutralizing media. 

The Coil Coatings division of Sherwin-Williams (Minneapolis, Minn.) has released a collection of printed metal coatings colorways, Emulate, for product and design professionals. The collection derives inspiration from mimicking the beauty of nature and aims to bring an enhanced look of natural building materials in wood, stone and metal to enable architects and product manufacturers to complete their vision in a new way. 

The collection uses a solid base coat and layers of ink that can be created with unique patterns and rich multi-layer effects. By utilizing a rotogravure printing process, these coatings are applied with an impression roller for the desired look of nature to the metal substrate.  

“Our experts at the Sherwin-Williams DesignHouse studied design trends, nature and countless products across markets,” says Kiki Redhead, Global Color Materials Finish (CMF) & Trend Manager at Sherwin-Williams. “While observing the evolution of wood, natural metal and stone, we realized an opportunity to create something that would simultaneously stand out and fit in.” 

According to Sherwin-Williams, Emulate mimmicks the design, pattern and structure of common building materials and the latest offering includes 30 total colorways across specific collections for wood, stone and metal. 

The company goes on to say that the colorways not only add beauty to a project, but they do so without stripping the world of finite natural resources — part of Sherwin-Williams sustainability commitment to preserving the environment with recyclable metal substrates. 

“For example, in a very intentional way, we’ve been able to mimic the beauty and detail of wood while providing design flexibility and durability,” says Brynn Wildenauer, Architectural Color Designer for Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings. “Similarly, by mimicking the finishes of natural metals such as zinc and copper and heavy stone, architects can achieve the desired look these precious building materials offers, but in a much more efficient way.”  

The Coil Coatings team has translated the technologies, colors and effects of Emulate based on market research and major societal catalysts such as sustainability, economy, humanity and equality. The offering is informed by Sherwin-Williams color and coating experts, leveraging years of research and development to present colors and effects intended to inspire architectural and building product design. 

Dürr has developed a connection between the control unit and applicator for the industrial painting industry: the Fluid Board. The fully assembled color dosing and color-changing system is unique on the market and enables fast assembly. By offering the Fluid Board, the company is expanding its ready2integrate package, enabling customers to quickly and easily assemble a high-quality solution comprising a controller, dosing technology and applicator.

The Fluid Board is designed to be fully controlled by the EcoAUC control unit, encompassing the most common 1C and 2C processes across low and high-pressure ranges and supplies the EcoBell2 atomizer or the EcoGun spray gun with paint and rinsing agents. The Fluid Board significantly reduces engineering and assembly effort.

The EcoMCC3 color changer is located on the Fluid Board and can supply up to 10 colors, while the EcoValve7 series’ valves, capable of handling up to three hardeners, are also integrated. Additionally, it uses the EcoPump9 for high precision dosing or the compact EcoFlow regulator for adjusting the operating pressure. Compact design was the focus during the Fluid Board’s development, so the system can also be installed in small spaces.

The Fluid Board is the first product from the industrial painting technology field that Dürr provides with digital, technical documentation. The EcoDocu streamlines the commissioning, operation and maintenance of the color dosing and color-changing system.

Since the Fluid Board is a modular system consisting of various Dürr components, integrators receive complete documentation describing the various components and process diagram examples. The EcoDocu also includes a parts catalog, a shopping cart for recording orders or inquiries and a user-friendly search function.

Cetec ERP has launched its AI chatbot tool. The tool has been developed to provide an option for customers to get immediate responses to the most common questions.

The AI chatbot reads and summarizes the website and documentation, enabling users to ask a question from any screen within Cetec ERP and receive an answer along with links to relevant document pages, like how-to videos. If further questions require assistance, customers with a support plan can create a ticket with the company’s support team for more personalized, in-depth help with the issue at hand.

The AI Chatbot will provide immediate assistance, fast-track support tickets and become a useful and time-saving tool for any manufacturing company using Cetec ERP.