Editorial, News, and Products
Bonus Podcast: SUR/FIN 2023 Interview with Richard Lynch, MacDermid Enthone
Products Finishing talks trends in the finishing industry with Richard Lynch, senior global vice president, MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions.
NASF's SUR/FIN 2023: Bringing the Surface Finishing Industry Together
SUR/FIN 2023 is an opportunity for those in the surface finishing industry to expand their knowledge, expertise and network.
SUR/FIN 2023 Registration Is Now Open
The National Association for Surface Finishing SUR/FIN 2023 surface finishing industry trade show will take place June 6-8, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio.
NASF, AESF Extend Corrosion and Accelerated Corrosion Course Registration Deadline
The registration deadline for this course has been extended to Feb. 6, 2023.
FTC Proposes to Ban Non-Compete Agreements
Federal Trade Commission has proposed a sweeping rule to block employers in most states from entering non-compete clauses with workers and to rescind existing non-compete agreements.
NASF Releases January 2023 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released a Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of January.
NASF, AESF Scholarship Program Accepting Applications
The deadline for applications is Feb. 26, 2023.
NASF Releases December 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released a Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of December.
EPA Issues Guidance for Reducing PFAS in Water Discharge Permits
EPA has issued guidance to states and POTWs on how it can use existing permit authorities to reduce PFAS in water discharges.
California Looks to Finalize Rule Phasing Out Hexavalent Chromium Plating Processes
California will hold a public hearing January 27, 2023 on its new state rule to phase out hexavalent chromium plating and anodizing.
An Interview With Bryan Leiker, Metal Finishers Association of California
Bryan Leiker, executive director for the Metal Finishers Association of California (MFACA), offers an update on actions to counter a proposed ban on hexavalent chromium plating and anodizing operations in the state.
NASF Releases October 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released a Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of October.
NASF Offers Online Industrial, Precious Metals Plating Course
NASF and its educational branch AESF are offering an online educational course for plating on industrial and precious metals.
EPA Plans to Release Major New Health Assessment for Hexavalent Chromium By End of Year
EPA is scheduled to issue a draft scientific health evaluation for hexavalent chromium by the end of 2022 for public comment and review. The assessment has been underway for more than a decade, and an updated assessment could lead to significantly tighter rules and restrictions nationwide.
PFAS Regulatory Alert: What Facilities Will Be Covered by EPA's PFAS Rulemaking for Surface Finishing Industry?
It is still too early to tell whether the proposed rule scheduled for release later next year will apply only to those facilities with certain chromium-based processes or more broadly to all metal finishing and electroplating operations.
EPA Will Send Nationwide PFAS Survey to Finishing Operations by October
EPA is preparing a formal survey to send to finishing operations nationwide as early as October to inform the agency’s analysis of the industry’s PFAS use and discharges. The survey is a significant undertaking and will be executed under the federal Clean Water Act’s authority, similar to the last major discharge survey of the industry over 20 years ago.
EPA Issues Proposed Rule to Designate PFOS and PFOA as CERCLA Hazardous Substance
EPA has for the first time proposed to designate PFOS and PFOA as hazardous substances under the authority of CERCLA or Superfund. The rule will trigger some reporting requirements and potentially significant cleanup costs.
NASF Releases September 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released a Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of September.
NASF Meets with White House on EPA Move to Propose Rule to List PFOS and PFOA under the Federal Superfund Clean Up Law
EPA’s proposed rule to list PFOS and PFOA as hazardous substances has cleared White House review. Industry has called for risk evaluation and impact analysis as a condition to support the decision.
EPA Readying Fall Nationwide PFAS Survey of Metal Finishing Industry to Inform New Water Discharge Rule
NASF continues discussions with US EPA on the agency’s plans for a nationwide survey of the metal finishing industry on its use of PFAS. NASF plans to review the draft survey and provide feedback to the agency prior to its distribution. Surveys will likely go to a wide range of job shop and captive operations and are scheduled to be sent out in the fall.
Industry Files Legal Challenge of New Stringent Drinking Water Health Advisories for PFAS Chemicals
A major legal challenge is underway targeting EPA’s new stringent drinking water lifetime health advisory levels for PFOA and PFOS. Arguments include a flawed review process and the fact that the new levels are below detection limits for these chemicals in drinking water.
Metal Finishing Facility Released Hexavalent Chromium into Huron River
Wastewater discharge of hexavalent chromium into Huron River results in “no contact” health advisory, sparking calls for more stringent pollution controls and automotive industry action to reduce hexavalent chromium uses.
Supreme Court Limits EPA Authority to Regulate GHG Emissions
The Supreme Court limits the scope of EPA’s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions without action from Congress, but the agency is still able to set carbon emission limits for key sectors of the economy.
NASF Releases August 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released a Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of August.
NASF Releases July 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released a Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of July.
IRS Issues Guidance for Reinstated Superfund Tax for Key Chemicals and Metals
New IRS Guidance for July 1, 2022 Effective Date – Despite industry requests to extend the deadline for implementing the reinstated Superfund tax, the Internal Revenue Service has issued a new guidance to implement the measure.
NASF Discusses PFAS and Hexavalent Chromium Reduction in the Automotive Supply Chain
NASF joins EPA, State of Michigan, and automotive OEMs to discuss voluntary approach to reduce the use of PFAS and hexavalent chromium for plating in the automotive supply chain.
EPA Announces Stringent Drinking Water Health Advisories for Certain PFAS Chemicals
EPA issued new stringent drinking water health advisory levels for PFOA and PFOS that may be below detection limits as it prepares to develop a new drinking water standards for these chemicals.
EPA Criticized for Ignoring Environmental Justice Concerns in PFAS Strategic Roadmap
EPA’s National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC) claims the agency has failed to address adequately environmental justice concerns associated with PFAS in an effort to avoid another crisis similar to the lead in Flint, MI drinking water.
New Jersey DEP Proposes Comprehensive Environment Justice Regulation
New Jersey proposed environmental justice regulations take unprecedented action to require consideration of impacts on overburdened communities in the permitting process. This regulatory process could serve as a model for other states.
Episode 21: Interviews From SUR/FIN 2022
Conversations from the trade show floor on the finishing community’s response to increased hexavalent chrome and PFAS fume suppressant regulations.
SUR/FIN Session to Focus on PFAS, Chromium Plating and Automotive Supply Chain
Experts from the surface finishing industry, representatives from several automotive OEMs, and government officials will be part of a technical session at SUR/FIN on June 7, 2022 that will focus on the barriers and incentives associated with chromium plating in the automotive supply chain.
PFAS Legislation Introduced That Specifically Targets Surface Finishing
Legislation was recently introduced again in Congress that would require EPA to issue wastewater discharge limits for PFAS for electroplating and metal finishing source categories. Among other impacts, the measure would accelerate the PFAS rulemaking on which NASF is already working with EPA.
EPA Proposes CWA Hazardous Substance Worst Case Discharge Planning Rule
EPA has proposed regulations that would require certain facilities to develop and submit a Facility Response Plan to address worst case discharges of Clean Water Act hazardous substances.
Pentagon Halts Incineration of PFAS Containing Materials
The Department of Defense announced that it was temporarily stopping the incineration of PFAS-containing materials until it can issue appropriate disposal guidance.
CARB Releases Draft Regulatory Language for Chromium Plating Rule
In draft regulatory language, CARB bans hexavalent chromium plating processes, prohibits any new hexavalent chromium permits, and imposes strict new control measures until the bans take effect.
NASF Releases May 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of May.
Talking Finishing Regulatory Policy
The National Association for Surface Finishing recently held its Washington Forum – a great event providing insight into policy discussions on the table in D.C.
President Biden Announces Plan to Secure Critical Supply Chains and Revitalize U.S. Manufacturing
The Biden Administration released new reports from key agencies on critical supply chains, potential vulnerabilities, and a plan to revitalize U.S. manufacturing.
CDC Relaxes COVID-19 Face Covering and Distancing Guidelines
The CDC released new guidelines that relaxed safety measures need to protect employees in the workplace from the risks associated with COVID-19.
EPA Moves to Adopt ASTM’s New PFAS Standard for Site Assessments to Limit Liability for Cleanups
EPA taking steps to adopt new ASTM standards for conducting site assessments for PFAS contamination that could help limit cleanup liabilities for property owners.
Court Certifies Huge Class in Landmark PFAS Suit, Eyes Possible Expansion
New litigation seeking industry-funded, independent, nationwide health studies and testing to determine the health effects of numerous PFAS found in the blood of nearly all Americans for a broad class of plaintiffs.
California Adds PFOA to List of Carcinogens, Triggering More Prop 65 Requirements for PFAS Compounds
California continues to add PFAS to list of carcinogens and reproductive toxins to trigger additional labeling and warning requirements under Prop 65.
NASF Releases March 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of March.
NASF/AESF Releases 2022 Finishing Training Schedule
The National Association for Surface Finishing’s 2022 catalog of finishing courses is currently available for download.
What’s Next after Supreme Court Issues Stay of OSHA’s COVID-19 Workplace Vaccine Standard
Even though the U.S. Supreme Court issued a stay on the implementation of the OSHA COVID-19 Vaccine, Testing and Face Coverings emergency temporary standard, employers are still obligated to protect employees from COVID-19 hazards in the workplace.
Supreme Court Asked to Bring Clarity to the Murky Scope of Federal Jurisdiction over “Waters of the U.S.”
With all the regulatory changes over the past decade, there is a significant amount of confusion of what constitutes a water of the U.S. that is subject to jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Supreme Court review could provide some much-needed clarity.
Industry Urges Caution as White House Reviews EPA’s Proposed PFAS Superfund Listing
Stakeholders urge the White House regulatory review office to cautiously review the proposed hazardous substance listing of PFOS and PFOA under CERCLA and to identify the potential negative impacts on Superfund cleanups.
Senate Initiates Plans for Bipartisan PFAS Bill, Building on EPA Efforts
Senate Democrats are focusing on a possible bipartisan bill to address PFAS issues.
California Clarifies Rule to Phase Out Hexavalent Chromium Processes
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) appears to be set on a rule phasing out hexavalent chromium plating and anodizing processes that could disrupt industry and critical supply chains.
NASF Releases January 2022 Policy Update
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of January.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for December 2021
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of December.
EPA Releases PFAS Strategic Roadmap
EPA’s ambitious and wide-ranging new PFAS Strategic Roadmap for regulation.
OSHA Awaits Final COVID Vaccine Rule Review from White House
COVID Emergency Temporary Standard May Be Extended Beyond Healthcare.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for November 2021
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of November.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for October 2021
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of October.
NASF Submits Comments on PFAS Reporting Requirements
Summary of NASF comment in response to recently proposed PFAS reporting rule.
COVID Emergency Temporary Standard May Be Extended Beyond Healthcare
A look at questions regarding the scope and implementation of the COVID ETS.
NASF/DOD Workshop on Chromium Plating at SURFIN
NASF schedules DoD Workshop on Hexavalent Chromium: Emerging California Restrictions & Implications for the U.S. Defense Supply Chain.
NASF Announces Management Partnership
The National Association for Surface Finishing and the AESF Foundation have partnered with trade association management and services provider Kellen, provider of management and services to professional societies and trade associations.
President Biden Announces New COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements, OSHA to Initiate New Standard and Enforcement
New OSHA Standards and Enforcements Concerning COVID-19.
EPA Moves to Repeal More Flexible Trump-Era Waters of the U.S. Rule after Court Ruling
The ruling continues the legal and regulatory battle over the scope of federal regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act,
Michigan Considers Pretreatment Limits for PFAS
Michigan PFAS Action: Detroit POTW Considering Pretreatment Limits for PFAS.
California Efforts Continue to Ban Hexavalent Chromium Plating
California Air Resources Board continues to advance rulemaking to transition hexavalent chromium plating to trivalent chromium alternatives.
NASF 1000 Program Seeks Support
NASF 1000 Program Addresses Regulatory, Legislative and Legal Actions on Behalf of Surface Finishers.
EPA to Set New PFAS Discharge Limits
EPA to Set New Federal Wastewater Discharge Standards for PFAS in Surface Finishing Operations.
Getting the Band Back Together at SUR/FIN 2021
Live demonstrations, expert panels, technical classes and exhibits reunite the finishing industry.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for August 2021
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of August.
The Continuing Battle Over Hex Chrome
The latest in the California regulatory battle over the phase-out of hexavalent chromium use in finishing operations.
NASF Partners with DOD on Workshop at SUR/FIN on California HexChrome Phase-Out
NASF Partners with the Department of Defense on Special Workshop at SUR/FIN on California’s Phase-Out of Hexavalent Chromium Processes and the Implications for the U.S. Defense Supply Chain
NASF Offers Webinar on OSHA Regulatory Outlook and Legal Guidance
Monday, July 26, 2021 NASF will hold a webinar discussing OSHA regulatory outlook and offering legal guidance.
Bipartisan PFAS Legislation Introduced in the House
New legislation would require EPA to take a comprehensive approach to addressing PFAS.
EPA Proposes Reporting Rule for PFAS Compounds
New rule proposed by EPA would subject articles containing PFAS to reporting requirements.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Would Reinstate Superfund Tax to Pay for Proposal
One provision of proposed infrastructure bill would reinstate Superfund Tax targeting chemical manufacturers.
EPA Announces New Electronic Manifest User Fees
EPA announces revised fees for electronic hazardous waste manifests.
California Platers Begin Sampling of PFAS Pursuant to Water Board Orders
California facilities begin to implement PFAS sampling order.
Infrastructure Bill Could Mean Nationwide Wastewater Discharge Limits for PFAS
Recently passed House Infrastructure Bill could set nationwide wastewater discharge limits for PFAS for finishing industry.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for July 2021
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of July.
CARB Issues Revised Deadlines for Hexavalent Chromium Transition
NASF offers an update on the latest developments with the California Air Resources Board proposed rules for hex chrome phase-out.
Episode 6: Transitioning Hexavalent Chromium to Trivalent, Part 2
In this episode of On the Line, Products Finishing editor-in-chief Scott Francis sits down with Bryan Leiker and Justin Guzman representing the Metal Finishers Association of California to discuss the impact of California’s recently proposed transition deadlines for hexavalent chromium plating to trivalent chromium alternatives.
EPA Announces Formation of PFAS Council
The EPA will form a council devoted to addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in an effort to escalate the Agency’s work on the issue.
OSHA Sends COVID Emergency Temporary Workplace Standard (ETS) to White House for Final Review
OSHA's COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) has been submitted to the White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval.
California Rule to Transition Hexavalent Chromium Processes to Trivalent Chromium
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) proposes agressive deadlines for transitioning to trivalent chromium.
NASF Provides Technical Input to Danish EPA on Nickel Coatings
The NASF has provided information on nickel-free coatings and the use of nickel in coatings for a project for the Danish EPA.
EPA to Move Forward on Proposed Rule for N-Propyl Bromide
Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) Panel to discuss EPA’s potential proposed rulemaking for n-propyl bromide (1-Bromopropane) under TSCA §6(a).
EPA Announces Plan to Update Toxics Release Inventory to Advance Environmental Justice
EPA to take steps under the Toxics release Inventory (TRI) to advance Environmental Justice, improve transparency for environmental information.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for May 2021
The National Association for Surface Finishing has released its monthly Policy Update, summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from the month of May.
Reinvigorating the Workforce
Do education and outreach hold the key to solving manufacturing’s workforce problem?
NASF Regulatory Alert: OSHA Sends Emergency COVID Workplace Standard Moves to Final Review
OSHA’s COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) for the nation’s workplaces has been sent to the White House for final review.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for April 2021
NASF has released a Policy Update for April summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from recent days.
NASF Online Course: Electroplating & Surface Finishing
NASF/AESF has announced a two-part web-based Electroplating & Surface Finishing Parts course.
NASF Regulatory Alert: OSHA Launches COVID-19 National Emphasis Program
OSHA launched a new National Emphasis Program to protect high-risk workers from COVID-19 hazards. The program prioritizes employers that retaliate against workers who complain about unsafe or unhealthful conditions.
Moving Your Shop to the Next Level
New technology can be both enticing and threatening. Steve Schneider of John Schneider & Associates, Inc. offers insights for evaluating potential investments.
An Interview with Incoming NASF President Jeff Brassard
Incoming NASF president Jeff Brassard discusses his experiences in the surface finishing industry and his goals for the association.
NASF Releases Public Policy Update for March 2021
NASF has released a Policy Update for March summarizing some of the pertinent regulatory developments and new announcements from recent days.
NASF Leads Chromium Symposium for California Air Resources Board
NASF leads chromium surface finishing symposium for California state officials considering new restrictions.
The Work We Do
In a time when so many are coping with loss, Products Finishing editor-in-chief Scott Francis takes time to reflect on the importance of hard work and the bigger picture within the finishing community.
NASF Online Course: Pollution Prevention
NASF/AESF has announced part 2 of its web-based Pollution Prevention course. The course will run throughout April on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Noon – 2 p.m. EST.
NASF Online Course: Chromium Plating for Engineering Applications
Registration for this Chromium Plating for Engineering Applications Web Based Course is June 22, 2021.
NASF OSHA Alert: OSHA Proposed Update to Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA recently issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend and update the agency’s Hazard Communication Standard.
NASF Plating Essentials Course Deadline Approaches
The registration deadline for NASF’s Plating Essentials course is February 23. The course offers an overview of critical finishing subjects.
NASF Regulatory Alert February 2021
OSHA Takes First Step to Strengthen Federal COVID-19 Workplace Guidelines in 2021.
NASF/AESF Offers Pollution Prevention Web-Based Course
The registration deadline for the Pollution Prevention web-based Course is March 23, 2021.
Jerry Poll, 1929-2021
Products Finishing recently lost one of its own. Jerry Poll was a well-loved figure in the surface finishing industry who led our brand for many years.
EPA Releases New Guide on Imported Articles Containing Surface Coatings Subject to LCPFAC SNUR
EPA has released its final compliance guide for imported articles containing surface coatings subject to the LCPFAC chemical substances SNUR.
A Conversation with Jody Richards of Process Technology
Products Finishing talked to Process Technology president Jody Richards about her forward-thinking strategy, the future of the finishing industry and more.
Charlie Cook Speaking at Virtual NASF Washington Forum
Charlie Cook, non-partisan political analyst, will speak at a special NASF Washington Forum session about the 2020 U.S. Election on September 10.
Online Plating Essentials Course Deadline Approaches
NASF and the AESF Foundation are offering a web-based plating essentials course that provides an overview of critical finishing subjects.
NASF To Host Virtual Forum Reviewing EPA's Evaluation of PFAS
The July 28 webinar will discuss the EPA’s current review of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) compounds.
Cultivating the Next Generation of Finishing Industry Leaders
As a generation of experienced coaters and finishers look toward retirement, new leaders are beginning to emerge. Training, education, support and encouragement for new talent is crucial for the future of manufacturing.
NASF Releases PFAS Sampling and Analysis Plan
New Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) includes the best practices for collecting and analyzing PFAS samples from surface finishing operations.
2020 Bright Design Challenge Concludes Virtually
The Metal Finishing Association of California has completed the 10th year of the Bright Design Program with the Pasadena College of Design, this year conducting the final presentations online to allow for social distancing during the coronavirus crisis.
NASF Report June 2016: EPA—Zicronization is Covered by Metal Finishing ELG
The agency says that wastewater generated by the zirconium oxide process is subject to the Metal Finishing Effluent Limitation Guidelines.
NASF Report May 2016: The Surface Technology Environmental Resource Center
NASF and its foundation partner with National Center for Manufacturing Science to better coordinate regulatory and ethical guidance for finishers.
NASF: EPA Releases More Stringent Definition of Solid Waste Regulation
The new revisions state that the recycling of secondary materials can occur only if specific regulatory requirements are met.
NASF Joins Over 100 Industry Associations to Support Federal TSCA Reform
AAI is a coalition that includes a range of chemical manufacturers, processors and distributors, as well as downstream users in the value chain.
Navy Seal Robert O'Neill Headlines NASF Mid-West Seminar in Michigan June 26-28
Team Leader on the Naval Special Warfare Development Group will be the featured speaker at Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs, Michigan, an event sponsored by the NASF Michigan Chapter.
NASF Washington Forum Covers Upcoming Rules, Regulations
Platers hear about new regulations, upcoming rules and visit with their Congressional representatives on Capital Hill.
NASF: OSHA Proposes New Workplace Exposure Standard for Respirable Crystalline Silica
Proposed rule would establish a new PEL of 50 μg/m3 with an action level 25 μg/m3 calculated as an eight-hour time-weighted average for general industry, half of the current standard
NASF: OSHA’s GHS HazCom Rule
OSHA’s implementation of the Globally Harmonized System deadline for the first round of regulations fell on Dec. 1, 2013.
Industry Groups Challenge European REACH on Chromium Trioxide
challenge alleges that the commission erred in its assessment of chromium trioxide for authorization and failed to provide an exemption for the continued use of it and other related compounds in the surface coatings industry.
Wayne State Engineering Professor Wins NASF Award
Yinlun Huang awarded the 2013 National Association for Surface Finishing’s Scientific Achievement Award.
Nickel Regulation and NASF Action
The NASF continues to work closely on advocacy efforts to ensure that U.S. and global regulatory bodies make responsible and scientifically-informed decisions on materials uses for a range of coatings processes.
Finishers Descend on Washington
The Washington Forum, held by the National Association for Surface Finishing, and held at the Ritz Carlton, Pentagon City, was a resounding success.
European Commission Issues Roadmap for Targeting Chemicals, Metals
55 substances per year will be risk-assessed, but the mid-term objective is to assess 80 substances by the end of 2014.
The NASF 1000: Finishing Industry Leaders Support NASF Public Policy Agenda
The NASF recently launched the NASF 1000 initiative to provide sustaining support for the finishing industry’s public policy advocacy and government relations activities.
Senate Bills Would Require High-Risk Facilities to Implement “Inherently Safer Technologies”
Senator Lautenberg introduced two bills seeking to require certain high-risk facilities to implement measures—including so-called inherently safer technologies —to protect them from terrorist attacks.
NASF's AESF Foundation Awards Scholarship
Sudarshan Narayanan is currently focusing on transparent conductors for optoelectronic applications and is expecting to complete his doctorate in 2013
New Chromium Electroplating Housekeeping Requirements
Alert for Platers: Your Deadline is March 19, 2013 as EPA finalized the residual risk and technology review for the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP) for hard and decorative chromium electroplating and chromium anodizing tanks under 40 CFR Part 63
More Environmental Cases are Going Criminal
Surface finishers and others operating in industries highly regulated by federal, state and local environmental protection agencies have seen an increase in the number of violations that have escalated from administrative notices of violations and fines, or even civil penalties, to criminal prosecutions
NASF Bright Design Challenge Kicks Off Jan. 16
Kick off in Detroit is scheduled for January 16. The event is timed perfectly for the Detroit Auto Show, and the NASF Board will also be meeting in town to fully support the event.
NASF REPORT: NASF Collaborates with Canadian Finishers
The CASF “Forum” conference in Toronto provided an informative overview of compliance issues and emerging regulatory issues. Also: NASF coordinating with Nickel Institute on nickel salts, metals data.
NASF Sues EPA Over Hex Chromium Rules
Sierra Club also sues the EPA over the same National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants rules for plating industry; NASF's two court actions include a petition for judicial review of the ruling in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, and a request for reconsideration of the rule with EPA.
NASF Board of Directors Recognize Four Departing Members
Pat Gleason, Ray Lucas, Bill Wiggins and Joelie Zak leaving NASF Board
NASF and Southern California Metal Finishers Kick Off Bright Design Challenge
Students are challenged to create innovative works utilizing plating technologies; top three concepts as judged by the panel be awarded $5,000 scholarships.
U.S. EPA Tightens Chromium Air Standards for Coatings
NASF Highlights Weak Rationale to White House
EPA Issues Chromium Air Rule, Despite NASF Meeting With White House Officials
The U.S. EPA signed the final chromium electroplating air rule Aug. 15 after it was finally cleared by the White House; the NASF says it might take the matter to court to overturn the rule.
A Conversation With ... Jerry Wahlin
Jerry Wahlin received the NASF Silvio Taormina Award, an honor given to an individual who has performed outstanding service to the finishing industry.
Despite NASF Plea, EPA Issues Chromium Air Rule
NASF will be reviewing the rule and supporting documents to determine whether to proceed with a legal challenge.
EPA vs. NASF: The Continental Divide
EPA official attends NASF Washington Forum to speak on chromium rule and flawed data.
A Conversation With ... Rick Dale, TV Host
Rick Dale is owner of Rick’s Restorations, a Las Vegas restoration shop that takes vintage appliances and machinery and restores them with new coatings for customers each week on the hit TV show American Restoration on the History Channel.
The Leading Edge Guide to Top Quality Anodizing using the Complete Spectrum Approach with a Universal Type I – II – III – (123) Mixed Electrolyte
This paper discusses a new advanced problem solving anodize technology for processing Types I, II and III anodize (A123) in a universal mixed electrolyte.
NASF Bright Design Challenge Selects Scholarship Winners
Leonard Takata, Yuyol Lee, Minwoo Song and Andrew Bianchi win scholarships
EPA One Step Closer to Finalizing New Emission Standards
Attorney and environmental expert Anthony Giuliani explains the EPA's new chromium rules due in 2012, which would amend the existing National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants Emissions for hard and decorative chromium electroplating and chromium anodizing tanks by lowering the existing NESHAP limits for both existing and new sources.
NASF REPORT: Is EPA Playing Dirty With Chromium Data?
NASF’s Jeff Hannapel and Christian Richter point to major flaws, bad precedent in EPA chromium air rule. NASF leaders have submitted a 100-page package of comments to the EPA in response to the agency’s proposed rule for chromium finishing operations.
Aerospace Drives More Calls for Non-Chrome Passivate Finishes
More finishers are warming up to using non-chrome passivation as a way to satisfy customers who don’t want to use hexavalent chromium for corrosion treatment.
The Mobile and Static Exposure of Decorative Nickel-Chromium Deposits
The corrosion resistance of nine plating systems with decoratively plated chromium was evaluated from the results of the CASS and Corrodkote tests, and Detroit Roof and Kure Beach exposure compared with the results of actual mobile service performance on cars used in Detroit.
Corrosion-Current Data for Nickel-Chromium Couples
When nickel electroplate is coupled with chromium, a high current density and corrosion rate at the anode, usually nickel, are favored by a high electrolyte concentration, a high temperature and a low nickel-to-chromium area ratio.
Electroplating of Zinc-Base Die Castings in a System Incorporating Dual Chromium
In the CASS testing of 1961 outside door handles plated in one of six exterior die-cast plating machines equipped for the dual chromium system at the Flint, Michigan plant of the Ternstedt Division of General Motors Corporation, 97% of the handles tested presented an appearance which it is felt would be acceptable to a car owner after one year's service.
NASF Says EPA Chromium Air Rules Have Major Flaws
Claims EPA Used Data from 'Phantom Facilities'