March 2010

A Toxic Debate

In the run up to the Washington Forum, EPA regulation is in the spotlight, and finishers are getting some bad press. Recent coverage in the Chicago Tribune and the Cleveland Plain Dealer has focused on the presence of certain perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) in finishing plants’ wastewater streams. Typically used to suppress hex chrome fumes in finishing operations, the unregulated PFCs have thus far served as a safe, cost-effective means of reducing both air emissions and workplace exposure levels. Bottom line: What seemed like a solution to air pollution issues has potentially created a water pollution problem. And finishers are stuck between a rock and a hard place.
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What do you think? Is your company using PFC-alternative fume suppressants? If the EPA imposes strict regulations on PFCs, how will it affect your business? Is the finishing industry doing enough to face this issue head-on? Let us know your opinion, and you’ll have an opportunity to snag a $50 Amazon gift card. Responses may be published in next month’s Digital Dispatch. Click here to respond.

A Major “Knowledge Event”
The New Process Cleaning Expo Features a Content-Rich Technical Conference
Taking place May 4-6 in Louisville, KY, the Process Cleaning Expo (PCx) is a new trade show that aims to educate the manufacturing community about the benefits of implementing a proper cleaning process. Along with the exhibition, the show includes a technical conference with an outstanding lineup of keynote speakers and technical sessions. Learn more about the conference, and don’t forget to make hotel and travel arrangements.

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Feature Article — Passion for Paint Since the debut of the American Chopper television series in 2003, fans of the show have watched Paul Teutul Sr., his sons Paul Jr. and Mike, and the crew at Orange County Choppers build dozens of over-the-top custom bikes for companies and individuals. Check out their less well known production bike business here. Painting Clinic — Wrinkle Finish A reader wants to find out more about attaining a “wrinkle finish.” Our paint expert responds here.
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Feature Article — Oscar Unveiled – On Sunday, dozens of Oscar statuettes were awarded to the men and women of film in recognition of their contributions to cinema. But at Chicago-based R.S. Owens & Company—the company that manufactures the prestigious award—the employees are the real stars of the show. Plating Clinic — Base Metal Into Gold – What’s a cost effective means to plate gold onto hardware products? Find out here.
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Feature Article — Powder Palace – Read about how a manufacturer of sporting goods turned its powder operation into the centerpiece of its plant to meet environmental guidelines and improve product quality here. Powder Coating Clinic — Powder Over Liquid Paint – Can Powder Coating be applied to painted components? Find out here.

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NASF Washington Forum
April 27-29, 2010

Process Cleaning Expo
May 4-6, 2010

Ecoat 2010
May 4-6, 2010

Sur/Fin 2010
June 15-16, 2010

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