http://www.metalfinishing.com/ Copyright Elsevier Ltd Intuitiv Ltd (www.intuitiv.net) Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:09:04 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/_common/img/template/metal-finishing/site-logo.gif http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7877/selectconnect-process-for-metallizing-circuits-on-molded-parts-and-components/ 3D-MID are designed to maximize space use where components are placed at different heights and in different declinations. Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:29:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7877/selectconnect-process-for-metallizing-circuits-on-molded-parts-and-components/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7526/all-the-world-is-not-flat-part-2/ This column expands upon my observation to that effect, which I described in my previous column (Metal Finishing, Volume 108, Issue 2, Feb. 2010). My basis for that belief is attendance at the Parts-2-Clean (P2C) international (though primarily German) trade show devoted to parts cleaning, held annually in Stuttgart. Mon, 22 Feb 2010 22:35:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7526/all-the-world-is-not-flat-part-2/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7353/the-world-is-not-flat-parts2clean-recap-part-i-/ Thoughts on the largely German—but increasingly European—trade fair, Parts-2-Clean, held in Stuttgart from Oct. 19–22, 2009. Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7353/the-world-is-not-flat-parts2clean-recap-part-i-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7114/sfchina-09-shows-resilience-in-the-wake-of-global-recession/ More than 11,000 visitors converged on the Shanghai New International Expo Centre Nov. 18–20 to attend SFCHINA ’09, billed as China’s foremost exposition and conference for electroplaters, suppliers of surface finishing chemicals and equipment, as well as coating formulators and manufacturers of paint delivery systems. Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:53:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/7114/sfchina-09-shows-resilience-in-the-wake-of-global-recession/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6934/anodizing-for-aerospace-101/ As the aerospace industry demands more from the materials it uses, the finishing of the surface becomes a greater part of the final product. Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:12:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6934/anodizing-for-aerospace-101/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6702/case-study-analysis-of-coating-failure-on-hinged-steel-boxes/ An investigation was performed to determine the cause of coating failures on several large hinged steel boxes. These boxes were constructed of sheet steel and were allegedly coated with corrosion-resistant coatings. However, after exposure outdoors, much of the paint delaminated and severe corrosion occurred. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:18:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6702/case-study-analysis-of-coating-failure-on-hinged-steel-boxes/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6501/selfcleaning-odorreducing-watershedding-properties-of-titanium-dioxide-photocatalytic-oxidizing-coatings-/ A new coating technology developed and commercialized 10 years ago in Japan and just recently introduced to the U.S. offers revolutionary new properties. This new coating technology allows coated surfaces to become self-cleaning of general soil, prevents the formation of a bio-film, has anti-fog and anti-frost properties, reduces odors from indoor spaces in contact with the coated surfaces as well as reduces odors from outdoor air pollution that comes in contact with an exterior surface coated with these coatings. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6501/selfcleaning-odorreducing-watershedding-properties-of-titanium-dioxide-photocatalytic-oxidizing-coatings-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6310/current-trends-in-cold-spray-technology-looking-at-the-future/ Cold spray is one of the many names for describing a solid-state coating process that uses a high-speed gas jet to accelerate powder particles toward a substrate whereby metal particles plastically deform and consolidate upon impact. The term “cold spray” refers to the relatively low process temperature involved—which is typically much lower than the melting point of the spray material. Fri, 08 Jan 2010 15:24:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6310/current-trends-in-cold-spray-technology-looking-at-the-future/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6013/enhanced-automation-of-plating-and-metal-finishing-barrel-process-operations-using-automatic-barrels-for-bulk-finishing-/ Metal finishing barrel operations are used most often for “bulk” finishing of large quantities of parts. They are the most efficient method for finishing bulk parts and any pieces that do not require individual handling. A hoist system is generally used to transfer the loaded metal finishing barrel assemblies from one process station to the next. Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:35:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/6013/enhanced-automation-of-plating-and-metal-finishing-barrel-process-operations-using-automatic-barrels-for-bulk-finishing-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5849/dragout-reduction-techniques-using-barrel-blowdown-and-dsc-dipspintilt-technology/ Increasing demand for water and stringent new legislation to limit the discharge of effluent is taking place in many areas worldwide. Equipment innovations that reduce water usage and minimize the quantity of chemicals discharged into the environment as treated effluent and sludge have been installed in several state-of-the-art modern electroplating barrel machines that incorporate centrifuge post-treatment systems. The innovations will also supply attractive cost benefits by reducing drag-out. Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5849/dragout-reduction-techniques-using-barrel-blowdown-and-dsc-dipspintilt-technology/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5681/considerations-in-the-finishing-equipment-selection-process-/ When budgeting for new finishing equipment or upgrading an existing line, it is important to note that each requirement is unique and must be carefully considered before arriving at an accurate estimate. In this feature, Jim Sutherland, sales manager for CJI Process Systems, describes several key considerations in the equipment selection process. Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5681/considerations-in-the-finishing-equipment-selection-process-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5336/compliance-requirements-of-new-epa-regulations-on-area-sources-in-the-plating-and-polishing-industry/ The U.S. EPA has developed new requirements to reduce air pollution from plating and polishing facilities. Shaikh Tayeb and Tapan Das, from the Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, discuss the new compliance and reporting requirements, in addition to providing suggestions on how to cost-effectively minimize your facility's emissions. Links and downloads to helpful compliance documents are also provided. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5336/compliance-requirements-of-new-epa-regulations-on-area-sources-in-the-plating-and-polishing-industry/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5180/the-clean-energy-race-pew-center-sees-greenhouse-gas-regulation-as-all-but-inevitable/ Drew Amorosi, managing editor of Metal Finishing, recently caught up with Dr. Manik Roy and Dr. Janet Peace of the Pew Center on Global Climate Change to discuss the climate change legislation making its way through Congress. One fact is clear from the conversation: Whether it’s via Congress, the states, or the EPA, the regulation of greenhouse gasses is very much on the horizon here in the United States, if not already upon us. The question for the business and manufacturing community is by which method and from what source will regulation emerge, and what system will be the least harmful to business conditions? Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5180/the-clean-energy-race-pew-center-sees-greenhouse-gas-regulation-as-all-but-inevitable/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5019/national-voc-emission-standards-for-aerosol-coatings/ In June of 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established national reactivity-based emission standards for 170 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in aerosol coating products. This aerosol coatings reactivity rule aims to encourage reformulation of aerosol coatings to reduce ground-level ozone formation. The rule specifies reactivity limits for 36 aerosol product categories. The 170 VOCs are ranked by their reactivity factor (RF, units in grams of ozone per gram of VOC). VOCs with a high RF are more likely to form ozone, an air pollutant, than VOCs with a lower RF. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/5019/national-voc-emission-standards-for-aerosol-coatings/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4536/nondestructive-testing-for-protective-coatings-implementing-a-lifetime-corrosion-prevention-program/ During the 20th century cheap and abundant energy made corrosion a manageable problem. This era is coming to an end. Soon, industry will find there is less funding available for corrosion prevention after adjusting for rising energy costs. At this time, management will be forced to decide whether to continue with traditional corrosion control practices or change to something new with a greater potential for energy savings. For many, this will be an extremely difficult decision to make. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4536/nondestructive-testing-for-protective-coatings-implementing-a-lifetime-corrosion-prevention-program/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4393/lessons-from-the-laundry-recovering-energy-costs-with-heat-wheels/ In 2008, when a barrel of oil cost $147 and a gallon of gasoline cost $4.25 (or more), many readers called or wrote to ask if there were more energy-efficient cleaning processes. They wanted an aqueous cleaning process that would operate at room temperature so that energy would not be needed to heat water, given the high, specific heat requirements in such applications. Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4393/lessons-from-the-laundry-recovering-energy-costs-with-heat-wheels/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4128/controlled-cleaning-by-measuring-surfactant-concentration/ The process reliability of pretreatment methods is the basis for high-quality products in the production of metal parts with special surface requirements. The cleaning process is the essential step between the finished shape forming and subsequent surface treatment and surface coating, respectively. Deficiently cleaned parts cause defects in the surface quality of products, leading to high costs due to consequential damages. The proper maintenance of defined concentrations of components, surfactants, and builder ensures optimal results in aqueous cleaning processes. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4128/controlled-cleaning-by-measuring-surfactant-concentration/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4217/troubleshooting-your-ultrasonic-cleaning-process/ Ultrasonic cleaning—that is, cleaning with high-frequency sound waves—is not a miracle cure; it just seems like one. When properly used, adding ultrasonics to the cleaning process enhances the efficiency of surface preparation processes, provides superior soil removal, lowers the rework rate, and increases profits. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4217/troubleshooting-your-ultrasonic-cleaning-process/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3961/improving-surface-prep-through-air-blasting/ Air blasting contributes to more productive cleaning and pretreatment by making short work of otherwise time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks. For many metal finishers, particularly shops that rebuild parts, prep work often represents more than half the battle. Success depends on maximizing surface receptivity to whatever procedure follows and, in many cases, maintaining part dimensions during cleaning or profiling. Because of its versatility and dexterity, air blasting excels in many challenging pretreatment and cleaning jobs. Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3961/improving-surface-prep-through-air-blasting/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3895/platerspainters-profile-danco-anodizing-pride-in-finishing-/ From medical instruments and implants to more pedestrian applications, Danco Anodizing puts all of their knowledge, heart and soul into every part. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3895/platerspainters-profile-danco-anodizing-pride-in-finishing-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3668/nondestructive-uv-inspection-of-coatings-based-on-enhanced-fluorescent-response/ The use of fluorescent materials to provide a non-destructive method for on-line inspection has been an area of increased importance to the coatings industry. Significant improvements in productivity have been realized by employing ultraviolet, UV, light curing to produce conformal coatings for computer boards. Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3668/nondestructive-uv-inspection-of-coatings-based-on-enhanced-fluorescent-response/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3360/platerspainters-profile-metal-finishingcr-hudgins-style/ Investing in the business—and its people—pays big dividends for C.R. Hudgins Plating, a 60-year-old operation based in Lynchburg, Va. Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3360/platerspainters-profile-metal-finishingcr-hudgins-style/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3365/platerspainters-profile-master-metal-finishing-takes-anodizing-seriously/ From electronics to aircraft parts, Master Metal Finishing of Patterson, N.J., finishes to spec—and beyond. Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3365/platerspainters-profile-master-metal-finishing-takes-anodizing-seriously/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3269/performance-characteristics-of-zincnickel-alloys-and-dipspin-coatings/ As the performance criteria for plated components have become more demanding, directives to meet strict environmental considerations have forced sweeping changes to surface finishes. The resulting field performance has been as varied as the alternatives. This article will compare zinc–nickel alloy plating and dip-spin coating technology with regard to various critical performance characteristics for automotive component applications. Corrosion resistance, total friction co-efficient, and contact with dissimilar metals, among other key properties, will be discussed. Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3269/performance-characteristics-of-zincnickel-alloys-and-dipspin-coatings/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3293/trivalent-passivates-need-trivalent-postdips/ Atotech's Björn Dingwerth discusses the benefits of an environmentally friendly trivalent chromium-based post-dip. This post-dip helps reinforce trivalent chromium-based conversion coatings while also preserving decorative appearance and corrosion protection properties. Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3293/trivalent-passivates-need-trivalent-postdips/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3171/zincate-or-stannatefree-plating-of-magnesium-aluminum-and-titanium/ For more than 80 years, the plating industry has been dependent on the use of various zincate and/or stannate solutions to assist in the plating of metals such as titanium, aluminum, and magnesium. It is becoming ever more difficult to use these solutions due to restrictive regulations—plus, they are difficult to work with. This article presents an environmentally acceptable and easy-to-work-with alternative process that does not require the metalizing of the metals to be plated or extensive cleaning and deoxidization procedures. Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3171/zincate-or-stannatefree-plating-of-magnesium-aluminum-and-titanium/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3146/deposition-of-aluminum-using-ionic-liquids/ Surface coating is of major importance technically as well as economically. Aluminum surface finishing processes are used not only in traditional fields such as mechanical and plant engineering, aircraft and spacecraft, automotive, and medical technology, but they are a key technology in many other industries as well. The application of functional coatings can modify the properties of material surfaces—for example, their hardness, roughness, chemical resistance, or wettability—to adapt them to the specific technical requirements they must meet. Of special importance in this respect is a coating’s protection against corrosion and wear and tear. Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3146/deposition-of-aluminum-using-ionic-liquids/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2792/building-your-recession-survival-guide-/ Modify employee health plans and adjust production shifts. Renegotiate lending terms with banks and payment schedules with customers to secure more favorable financing and expedite receivables. Diversify your client base beyond the core, staple sectors in order to provide a buffer against markets prone to extreme cyclical swings. Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2792/building-your-recession-survival-guide-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4369/the-economics-of-sustainable-uv-coating-technology/ Sustainability is the new “green” and will continue to gain influence in the global marketplace. A major movement is under way that includes efforts by environmentalists, government agencies, manufacturers, consumers, and others to improve worldwide sustainability. The UV coatings marketplace, consisting of raw material manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and formulators, are using UV coating technologies to lead the sustainability effort and positively impact manufacturing, especially in the U.S. This movement is called “Sustainable UV.” Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4369/the-economics-of-sustainable-uv-coating-technology/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2849/finishers-facing-challenges-make-adjustmentsand-tough-decisions/ Kelly Mowry has four children to feed and a business to run. As president of Gull Industries, a metal coating service provider in Houston, Texas, Mowry—a 40-year industry veteran—has recently been thinking twice about his chosen profession. Make no mistake: The Texas A&M University alumnus loves his job, but with the sliding economy his company has taken a hit. Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2849/finishers-facing-challenges-make-adjustmentsand-tough-decisions/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3797/court-of-appeals-upholds-oshas-hexavalent-chromium-pel/ Surface finishers nationwide were recently provided an opportunity to exhale a great sigh of relief—at least, for shop owners and managers to be certain. On Feb. 23, the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the revised hexavalent chromium permissible exposure limit established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 2006. The suit was brought forth by, among others, interest group Public Citizen, which sought an even lower PEL for operations subject to hexavalent chromium exposure. The plaintiffs in this case contended that the OSHA PEL established in 2006 did not go far enough in limiting workers’ exposure to hexavalent chromium, a known carcinogen. Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3797/court-of-appeals-upholds-oshas-hexavalent-chromium-pel/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2852/new-us-epa-regulations-to-impact-metal-fabrication-and-finishing-operations-/ On July 23, 2008, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) issued a new regulation that regulates air emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) from nine metal fabrication and finishing source categories. This rule, promulgated as 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 63, Subpart XXXXXX (“6X”), is another in a series of regulations that addresses emissions of HAPs from “area sources.” Unlike many other subparts to 40 CFR Part 63 that regulate the entire list of HAPs, 6X specifically regulates only emissions of compounds of cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, and nickel from nine specific source categories. Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2852/new-us-epa-regulations-to-impact-metal-fabrication-and-finishing-operations-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3124/what-industry-needs-right-now-confidence/ Many theories abound as to what will be required to breathe new life back into the U.S. economy in general and industry in particular. For instance, do we prop up ailing banks and financial institutions, retool America's manufacturing base, or shore up the weakened housing market—the troubled sector that, according to many, touched off the recession? Regardless of the specific plan of attack, analysts argue that any successful initiative (or combination thereof) must adequately address both industry and the economy, as the two are inextricably linked. Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3124/what-industry-needs-right-now-confidence/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3043/platerspainters-profile-no-order-is-too-tall-for-paramount-metal-finishing/ Paramount Metal Finishing, a New Jersey-based finisher, leverages capabilities, expertise, flexibility, and problem solving to its advantage—and that of its customers. Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3043/platerspainters-profile-no-order-is-too-tall-for-paramount-metal-finishing/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3123/demystifying-reach-/ The National Association for Surface Finishing (NASF) is offering members valuable assistance in deciphering Europe’s complex regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals—otherwise referred to by the acronym, “REACH.” The regulation—which went into effect in June 2007—aims to streamline a preceding legislative framework on chemicals by the European Union (EU). Among REACH’s main objectives: improve the protection of human health and the environment from the potential risks posed by chemicals; promote alternative test methods; support the free circulation of substances on the internal market; and enhance competitiveness and innovation. Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3123/demystifying-reach-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4269/beta-backscatter-for-coating-thickness-measurement-still-viable-after-all-these-years/ The beta backscatter method of measuring plating and coating thickness was originally introduced nearly 40 years ago. Nearly everyone who has been associated with electronics or metal finishing for any length of time is most likely familiar with this technology, as the use of beta backscatter systems has been extensive within these industries. Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4269/beta-backscatter-for-coating-thickness-measurement-still-viable-after-all-these-years/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4195/making-the-most-of-your-ultrasonic-cleaning-system/ Ultrasonic cleaning increases yield, turbo-charges cleaning, increases profits, and boosts your competitive edge—but only if you do it right. Understanding critical variables can help maximize the return on your cleaning system investment. Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4195/making-the-most-of-your-ultrasonic-cleaning-system/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3329/honda-racing-employs-ultrasonic-cleaning-for-highperformance-engine-parts/ In the highly competitive and technologically advanced world of Formula One auto racing, engine component cleanliness is taken very seriously. So, when specifying a new cleaning system for a range of aluminum and titanium F1 engine racing components, Honda Racing Developments chose a Kerry Microsolve co-solvent ultrasoinic cleaning unit to meet their very exacting requirements. Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3329/honda-racing-employs-ultrasonic-cleaning-for-highperformance-engine-parts/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3235/coming-to-grips-with-electronic-marketing-/ The Electronic Age is no longer a fad in industry. It’s a proven vehicle for conducting business, obtaining important information, and shopping for goods and services. For solid proof that the Internet is dramatically changing the way consumer and business products are marketed and sold today, look no further than the meteoric sales growth of online retailers and e-commerce transactions. Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3235/coming-to-grips-with-electronic-marketing-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3715/past-is-prologue-the-evolution-of-parts-cleaning/ This is a column about parts cleaning that I have both wanted to write, and been concerned about writing, for some time. I had intended to write it on the 10th anniversary of closing of the Montreal Protocol, but I was concerned that 10 years was not enough distance from the event to allow for a useful perspective. Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3715/past-is-prologue-the-evolution-of-parts-cleaning/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3173/multitasking-for-business-owners-a-study-in-juggling-elephants-/ "Don’t strive for balance in your life—it’s unrealistic." That was the sobering advice that Jones Loflin, renown speaker and corporate trainer, offered attendees at the 2008 NASF Management Conference in Los Cabos, Mexico, last month. Instead, Loflin suggests, business owners and operators, team leaders, and laymen alike should concentrate on mastering the art of managing priorities as life’s situations dictate. Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3173/multitasking-for-business-owners-a-study-in-juggling-elephants-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3236/customer-service-is-king-/ A challenging economic climate, coupled with increasing local and off-shore competition in the surface finishing industry, is forcing businesses to pay closer attention to satisfying customers. The Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," may seem self evident in the way we try to conduct our personal lives. Yet, this axiom is assuming new importance as a guiding principle in business. Mon, 03 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3236/customer-service-is-king-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3759/platerspainters-profile-professional-plating-strives-for-repeatable-results/ Professional Plating could dazzle you dizzy with its deep range of finishing services—rack zinc plating, barrel zinc plating, acrylic e-coating, epoxy e-coating, custom powder coating, and specialty ceramic coatings, to name a few. But it’s not just about diversity for diversity’s sake. The real hook, company principals note, is doing all of these things on a level of quality that’s repeatable and consistent—every time. Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3759/platerspainters-profile-professional-plating-strives-for-repeatable-results/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3174/global-competitionturning-challenges-into-opportunities/ Of the slew of informative educational seminars offered at FIN-X ’07 in Indianapolis last month, perhaps none hit home like the presentation by noted author and industrial turnaround specialist Michael Collins. In his keynote speech, titled “New Strategies for the New Century: Finding Growth Opportunities in Today’s Global Economy,” Collins took a detour from the oh-so fashionable tactic of bashing international competitors. Instead, Collins sought to provide participants with some textbook cases of how several American companies, particularly smaller ones, are competing successfully. Fri, 05 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3174/global-competitionturning-challenges-into-opportunities/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3765/platerspainters-profile-cadillac-plating-where-zinc-is-king/ Don’t let the name fool you. At Cadillac Plating, it’s all about the zinc: zinc iron hexavalent black, zinc iron trivalent black, zinc trivalent clear, zinc trivalent yellow, zinc hexavalent yellow, and zinc olive drab. It’s a specialty focus that, according to the company, provides a lucrative market niche at a time when many other finishing firms are moving toward diversification. And for Nick Salvati, Jr., plant manager of the Warren, Mich.-based company, that suits him just fine. Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3765/platerspainters-profile-cadillac-plating-where-zinc-is-king/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3913/platerspainters-profile-meeting-tough-times-head-on-cadon-plating-coatings-adapts-to-survive/ Alan Ensign, vice president and general manager of Wyandotte, Mich.–based Cadon Plating & Coatings, is no stranger to trying times. When the company abandoned the commodity-driven rack plating business years ago, revenues took a 30% hit. Then in in 1994, government regs forced its exodus from the cadmium plating market and, much later, the olive-drab business. As a result of that move, 25% of sales vaporized—just like that. If those setbacks weren’t enough, the company lost once-steady business when the U-bolt suppliers for several major auto suppliers installed their own paint lines, essentially cutting out Cadon completely. Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3913/platerspainters-profile-meeting-tough-times-head-on-cadon-plating-coatings-adapts-to-survive/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3175/report-from-the-road-michigan-platers-face-challenges-/ A few weeks ago I headed off to the state of Michigan—reporter’s pad and camera in tow—with the goal of sizing up a handful of plating and finishing operations for possible inclusion in the new “Profile” section of the magazine. I got much more than I bargained for via a healthy dose of harsh reality. Wed, 09 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3175/report-from-the-road-michigan-platers-face-challenges-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3717/everything-you-need-to-know-about-nitric-oxides-/ Controlling and minimizing pollutant emissions is critical for meeting air quality regulations. This article provides a basic primer on an important pollutant emission referred to as nitric oxides, or NOx. This regulated contaminant is formed in nearly all combustion reactions. This includes fired equipment such as heaters, dryers, and furnaces. Fri, 10 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3717/everything-you-need-to-know-about-nitric-oxides-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3708/robotic-uv-curing-of-coatings-saves-time-and-money/ The UV world is getting bigger every day—and that includes the size of the parts being coated and cured. New developments in UV curing have enabled faster and cost-effective coating of large and complex parts. From boats and cars to bathtubs and snowmobiles, the once miniature world of applications that focused quite literally on optical fibers and CD-ROMs has grown up. And the parts have changed from flat sheets of paper to the beautiful curves of guitars and bumper facias. Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3708/robotic-uv-curing-of-coatings-saves-time-and-money/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4163/driving-away-from-hexavalent-chromium-coatings/ With compliance deadlines for new environmental regulations fast approaching or already in effect, surface finishers are challenged to manage the transition to alternative coating materials and away from hexavalent chromium. Mon, 03 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4163/driving-away-from-hexavalent-chromium-coatings/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3176/finishers-legislative-update-more-regulations-less-wiggle-room/ Christian Richter, founder of The Policy Group, said recently that there are two key regulatory issues that bear watching closely if you are a finisher: "The fact that we have more—not fewer—regulations coming at us over the next few years," and second, "They're coming at us from more places." Tue, 14 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/3176/finishers-legislative-update-more-regulations-less-wiggle-room/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4194/washing-rinsing-and-drying-items-to-consider-for-the-optimization-of-your-cleaning-process/ If a child is told to wash her hands and then reappears flinging soap suds and water around the room, then the local adult is apt to send her back for additional reprocessing. In product manufacturing, there are three steps in the overall cleaning process: washing (cleaning), rinsing, and drying. Understanding the functions of these three steps is a powerful business tool to achieve high product quality at a lower cost. Unfortunately, those of us involved in surface preparation and quality and contamination control may use the terms imprecisely. Cleaning may mean only the initial removal of soil or encompass several steps in the surface preparation process. Thu, 01 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/4194/washing-rinsing-and-drying-items-to-consider-for-the-optimization-of-your-cleaning-process/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2947/the-viability-of-practical-alternatives-for-hexavalent-chromium/ Environmentalists, community leaders, labor representatives, local and national politicians—everyone, it seems, points the finger of blame at hexavalent chromium, accusing the substance of causing everything from groundwater contamination, soil and crop pollution, to human cancer and loss of business to overseas job shops. Tue, 08 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2947/the-viability-of-practical-alternatives-for-hexavalent-chromium/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2954/the-spouted-bed-electrode-plater-improved-technology-for-electroplating-microsized-components/ The spouted bed electrode, SBE, electroplating machine was specifically designed for parts with dimensions smaller than 1 cm in any single dimension. The key technology of the SBE plater is the use of a solution jet that circulates the parts throughout the plating chamber during cleaning, activation, plating, and rinsing operations. It is particularly suitable for plating parts that are difficult to plate in traditional equipment, including surface mount passive components, flat parts, leaded components, and pins. Fri, 18 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2954/the-spouted-bed-electrode-plater-improved-technology-for-electroplating-microsized-components/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2830/the-evolution-of-acid-copper-plating/ In the North American market there are some dramatic changes in the landscape, as we see the migration of manufacturing to the Far East, particularly to China. Most of the big runners are made overseas. Mon, 07 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2830/the-evolution-of-acid-copper-plating/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2828/the-painful-truth-about-hexavalent-chromium-permissible-exposure-limits/ A proposed government regulation designed to protect workers from exposure to hexavalent chromium carries a potentially dangerous side effect. Chrome plating employers contend the ruling would bankrupt half the industry and force other companies to relocate to countries where environmental laws are less strict. Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2828/the-painful-truth-about-hexavalent-chromium-permissible-exposure-limits/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2827/is-parts-drying-hot-air-or-something-else/ This column discusses why parts drying is a problem with aqueous cleaning agents used as replacements for some solvents. I wrote about this topic in 1989. I have frequently updated the material, to protect the guilty. But basically, drying of parts is similar to how it was handled years earlier, and before that. Wed, 08 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2827/is-parts-drying-hot-air-or-something-else/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2717/fantastic-finish-pk-selective-redefines-the-art-of-aluminum-anodizing-/ Wow! This may be the initial reaction of P.K. Selective Metal Plating customers when first viewing the colorful and lustrous product finishes made possible by a proprietary multi-color/splash anodizing system. The firm continues to push the envelope for this process with national and international customers. Wed, 01 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2717/fantastic-finish-pk-selective-redefines-the-art-of-aluminum-anodizing-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2694/conserve-water-with-conductivity-meters/ Although 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered in water, nearly all of it is contaminated with salt and therefore inappropriate for most uses. Tue, 30 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2694/conserve-water-with-conductivity-meters/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2648/yesterdays-solvents-tomorrow-part-ii/ In part I of this column, I showed how common open-top vapor degreasers can fail if used with solvent blends. The reason is the vapor produced from most binary solvent blends becomes enriched in the most volatile of the two components. If that vapor escapes from the degreaser via any means, the bath becomes depleted of that most volatile component and the composition becomes a pure component that is the least volatile. Fri, 12 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2648/yesterdays-solvents-tomorrow-part-ii/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2647/yesterdays-solvents-tomorrow-part-i/ It is very unlikely that many newly developed cleaning solvents will be introduced in the coming years. The reasons include: the costs are too great; the expected return is too small; and limitations of chemistry make the chance of success in providing a perfect solvent too low. Other than those reasons, we’ll all be developing new solvents. Yet that doesn’t mean those doing solvent cleaning will have to make due with currently available and occasionally imperfect offerings. Tue, 09 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2647/yesterdays-solvents-tomorrow-part-i/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2621/clearing-the-air-around-vapor-corrosion-inhibitors/ The efficacy, convenience, and cost effectiveness of vapor corrosion inhibiting (VCI) packaging products have made their application for rust control almost universal in automotive, machine tools, aerospace, electronics, power generation, and the military. As with all industrial chemical products, however, the increased usage of VCI products has also raised significant scientific interest as to their health and safety. Tue, 02 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2621/clearing-the-air-around-vapor-corrosion-inhibitors/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2623/problems-with-volatile-corrosion-inhibitors-in-the-metal-finishing-industry-/ The use of volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCIs) within the metal finishing industry presents two generally unrecognized health and performance problems. VCIs have been used to prevent corrosion since World War II yet have had little risk analysis. Although many of the benefits of VCIs have been published, VCIs’ darker side is only now becoming known. Tue, 02 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2623/problems-with-volatile-corrosion-inhibitors-in-the-metal-finishing-industry-/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2721/voc-emissions-from-industrial-painting-processes-as-a-source-of-fuel-cell-energy/ Paint solvents and other airborne chemicals classified as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are undesirable air pollutants because they have unpleasant odors and contribute to the formation of smog. Federal, state, and local regulations limit the amount of these chemicals emitted from manufacturing facilities; so many industries must abate these VOCs. Mon, 18 Oct 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2721/voc-emissions-from-industrial-painting-processes-as-a-source-of-fuel-cell-energy/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2618/dont-become-an-endangered-species-buy-the-right-cleaning-equipment/ Washing, rinsing, and drying are processes: combinations of chemicals and equipment. When you make a selection to solve a cleaning problem, you have at least three chances to make mistakes. Wed, 08 Sep 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2618/dont-become-an-endangered-species-buy-the-right-cleaning-equipment/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2602/tradeshow-strategies-from-a-pro/ One of my responsibilities as Organic Coatings Editor for Metal Finishing is attending conferences, be they coatings-related, environmental, or military. I've been doing this for so many years that I've developed a well-honed routine for getting the most out of the available time. Tue, 01 Jun 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2602/tradeshow-strategies-from-a-pro/ http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2601/probing-problems-practical-tips-working-with-ph-and-orp-measuring-devices/ It is one of the most common causes of system upsets. To prevent it can take as little as one hour of maintenance labor per month and an investment as modest as a hundred dollars. But the cause of this problem, which can cost you many hours of aggravation and many dollars in fines, is rarely the first thing the busy plater thinks of when it first rears its ugly head. It is pH probe maintenance. Sat, 01 May 2004 00:00:00 GMT http://www.metalfinishing.com/view/2601/probing-problems-practical-tips-working-with-ph-and-orp-measuring-devices/