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AMBER INDUSTRIESAUTOMATED CONVEYOR & HANDLING SYSTEMS
With origins going back over 60 years Amber Industries was incorporated in its current form in 2002. In 2005 it was subject to a buyout by the current management team. Amber Industries have the technology and the organisational capability to provide conveyors and material handling solutions from simple belt conveyors and roller conveyors through to complex integrated conveyor systems including overhead conveyors, power & free conveyors, inverted chain conveyors, floor conveyors, tote and unit load conveyors, line-shaft conveyors, ZLP conveyors, accumulation conveyors, pallet handling conveyors, incline belt conveyors, laundry conveyors and curved and spiral conveyors.
All our conveyors are manufactured in the UK to rigorous quality standards and are designed with the customers individual requirements in mind using the latest 3D CAD software packages. Conveyor control systems’ architecture and software is done by our in house conveyor control systems engineers and programmers. Installation and commissioning of our conveyors can be undertaken by our highly trained team of site technicians.
Overhead Conveyors
MCM overhead conveyor systems have for over 40 years been used to improve the operational capacity and efficiency of many and varied types of industrial and manufacturing facilities. By the nature of their design and construction overhead conveyor systems enable the optimisation of available factory floor space. MCM’s wide range of overhead conveyor systems are used for many materials handling operations including; assembly lines, storage facilities, component distribution, waste removal, and surface finishing processes, e.g. shot-blasting, cleaning and de-greasing, painting, powder coating, plating and high temperature baking etc.
Our overhead conveyor systems are frequently found working in such industries as: automotive manufacturers, automotive
component suppliers, commercial vehicles, construction and municipal plant, agricultural equipment, white and brown goods, abattoirs and meat processing plant and sometimes in more unusual settings like museum displays, exhibition displays and shop windows. Overhead conveyor systems are a highly versatile method of moving products and materials and their modular construction means they can readily be configured to a large variety of applications
Floor Conveyors
Floor conveyors and floor conveyor systems are allencompassing terms used in the materials handling industry to cover a large range of types of conveyor systems and conveyor equipment, the common element being that they are generally mounted directly on the floors within buildings.
Some of the more commonly used types of floor conveyors and floor conveyor systems are: gravity roller conveyors and skatewheel conveyors, flexible roller conveyors, ball table transfer units, powered roller conveyor systems, accumulation conveyors, belt conveyors & belt conveyor systems, plastic modular belt conveyors, assembly line conveyor systems, picking line conveyors, tote conveyor systems, case & carton
conveyor systems, incline conveyors & mezzanine floor conveyors, inter-floor conveyor systems, heavy duty powered roller conveyors, pallet handling equipment and pallet conveyor systems, production line conveyor systems, industrial conveyors, chain conveyors, slat conveyors, shuttle car conveyors, in-floor conveyor systems, towline conveyors, power bend conveyors, spiral conveyors & elevators / lowerators.
Within the field of transporting, moving and handling materials and products floor conveyor systems have a vast number of applications. Big users of floor conveyor systems are the logistics and distribution industry, warehouses, e-commerce fulfilment centres, parcel handling depots, the printing and packaging industry, the food processing and drinks industry, and many other manufacturing industries such as automotive and white goods.
Whether it’s a simple floor conveyor layout or a fully integrated floor conveyor system within a production or intralogistics facility Amber Automation has the expertise to design, develop and implement a bespoke floor conveyor system to exactly meet your business needs. Amber Automation’s team of experienced conveyor and control systems engineers will select the most appropriate conveyor technology to achieve the objective. They will not only use our own range of conveyors UK manufactured conveyor equipment but also use other suitable products available on the market.
Powered Belt Curves
Belt curves, belt curve conveyors, belt turns, power curves, power turns, belt curves conveyors, curved belt conveyors,
powered belt curves, powered belt curve conveyors, powered belt turns, spiral curves, spiral incline conveyors, spiral decline conveyors are all terms used to describe the same piece of equipment. Within our website we use the term: belt curves, which is the most commonly used English term.
Essentially belt curves are curved belt conveyors which enable the smooth change in direction of travel of a conveyed object whilst maintaining its orientation relative to the direction of travel. Amber Industries Ltd manufactures belt curves in the United Kingdom under the highly respected Gramac Quartz brand name.
The name ‘Gramac Quartz’ is synonymous with the unsurpassed reliability of its products and their ability to keep on providing top class performance and longevity under the most demanding operation conditions and the toughest of environments, e.g. extremes of temperature, humidity and airborne dust. A large range of ‘standard footprint’ belt curves are available, however by investing in the latest technology Gramac Quartz’s design and manufacturing processes you have the in-built flexibility and responsiveness to enable almost any ‘bespoke footprint’ belt curves to be offered to meet customer’s unique requirements.
Telephone: +44 (0)161 284 2222
Email: info@amber-industries.ltd.uk
Visit: www.amber-industries.ltd.uk
30 YEARS OF IFO AND QUBUS
By Chris Mansfield - QUALICOAT Chair
IFO and QUBUS are prominent German service providers specialising in surface engineering and metalwork. Established in 1995, they have built a reputation for delivering practical, solutionoriented advice and comprehensive services to clients across various industries. Their expertise encompasses laboratory services, damage assessments, industrial research, quality inspections, certifications, and more. With a team of over 90 professionals—including chemists, engineers, and economists— they currently serve more than 2,000 customers in over 50 countries worldwide.
On 11th July this year IFO and QUBUS will celebrate their 30th anniversary, marking three decades of innovation and excellence in surface technology. The milestone is being commemorated with various events and initiatives, including participation in major industry trade fairs such as PaintExpo and Surface Technology Germany. These events provide an opportunity to showcase their latest advancements and reinforce their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The anniversary celebrations also serve as a testament to their enduring partnerships and the trust
they’ve cultivated with clients over the years.
IFO (Institut für Oberflächentechnik) serves as the independent third-party inspectorate for QUALICOAT UK & Ireland, playing a crucial role in upholding the integrity of architectural powder coating standards across the region. All licensed applicators undergo bi-annual, unannounced inspections conducted by IFO to ensure strict adherence to the QUALICOAT Specification. These evaluations encompass comprehensive assessments of pretreatment processes,
coating application methods, and laboratory testing protocols, thereby guaranteeing consistent quality and performance in coated aluminium products. This rigorous inspection regime not only reinforces the credibility of the QUALICOAT label but also provides architects, specifiers, and end-users with confidence in the durability and reliability of coated aluminium used in construction projects.
Beyond routine inspections, IFO actively contributes to each members meeting and the professional development of QUALICOAT UK & Ireland members through specialised training programs. Laboratory technicians from licensed applicators are required to attend refresher courses at least once every two years, ensuring they remain abreast of the latest advancements in coating technologies and testing methodologies. These training sessions, often hosted in collaboration with industry partners, cover topics such as chrome-free pretreatment analysis and the application of advanced measurement equipment. Additionally, IFO hosts annual meetings for QUALICOAT UK & Ireland members at its headquarters in Germany, fostering a collaborative environment for discussing specification updates and industry best practices.
Chris MansfieldQUALICOAT UK & Ireland Chair
Directors of IFO and QUBUS, Christian Deyhle, Marc Holz, Michael Müller, Ulrich Mäule, recently issued an invitation to their Anniversary Celebrations: “We are delighted to invite you to celebrate 30 years of IFO and QUBUS with us! On Friday, July 11th, 2025, we would be honoured to have you join us for a special anniversary celebration at our company headquarters in Schwäbisch Gmünd. Our
journey began in 1995 with the founding of IFO and QUBUS, and over the past three decades, we have grown into a unique network of surface technology services. We have supported nearly 4,000 customers in 75 countries around the world, and we are incredibly grateful for the trust you have placed in us and the collaborative partnership we have built. We would like to express our deepest
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gratitude for your continued support and take joy in what we have achieved together.”
We look forward to continuing our working relationship with IFO as our third party accreditation service in the coming years.
Should you wish to attend a members meeting and apply for membership of QUALICOAT please get in touch. All QUALICOAT UK & Ireland members are available to offer advice and can be found on the Association website at qualicoatuki.org
Become an Acknowledged Leader in Surface Engineering and Materials Finishing: INDUSTRY RECOGNISED TRAINING COURSES FROM THE IMF
Are you involved with the application of coatings to enhance and protect your products? Do you need to meet client specifications to ensure the longevity of your components? Does the complex world of surface engineering and materials finishing cause you headaches?
If so, the courses offered by the Institute of Materials Finishing (IMF) could be your solution!
The IMF have been promoting knowledge in the surface finishing industries, both inorganic surface treatments including plating and the application of organic paints, lacquers and varnishes for many years. Large numbers of engineers and technicians across a multitude of industries have benefitted from the knowledge gained to enhance their careers, their standing within industry and the ability to problem solve the many challenges they face in their daily working lives!
Starting with the Foundation level course, students gain knowledge on all aspects of materials finishing, specifically aimed at their own industry requirements, but to include sections on Health & Safety, the Environment and Surface Finishing and Corrosion Protection. There is no need for a science background to be able to successfully complete a foundation course.
The Foundation Course requires study of 15 sections and requires the submission of 2 marked assignments followed by an end examination. The course, conducted by distance learning will take 16 weeks to complete. There are three specific study routes to choose from; electroplating, organic coatings and aerospace finishing. On successful completion, the student is awarded the Foundation Certificate.
To follow on, students can then elect to progress to the Technician level modules, which give more in-depth knowledge for key finishing technologies, their application and best practice methods. Again, both inorganic and organic technologies can be studied to match the industry requirements. There is a choice of eight modules, which provide study in applicable areas of surface finishing best matched to your needs.
Like the Foundation course, study is by distance learning, and the student is required to complete four marked assignments and pass an examination.
Passing two technician modules leads to the award of Technician Certificate; passing four modules leads to the award of an Advanced Technician Certificate.
If you feel your career could benefit from being a recognised specialist in your particular branch of Surface Engineering or Materials Finishing, then contact the IMF today.
Speak with our training manager Karen Yates on +44 (0)121 622 7287 or email karen@materialsfinishing.org.
Move your career to the next level and join the finishing community and all the benefits that gives through the IMF.
Discover the Future of Surface Finishing at Surface World 2027! Explore the latest in surface treatment, finishing, and coatings at the UK’s leading event. Connect with top suppliers, discover cutting-edge technologies, and stay ahead in the industry. Don’t miss out—secure your place today!
supported by
BCF SPONSORS PARLIAMENTARY EVENT TO ENGAGE WITH POLICYMAKERS
On Wednesday 21st May, the British Coatings Federation sponsored an Industry Forum event in the House of Commons.
The Industry Forum is an established organisation that links the business community with policymakers in the UK.
The Minister for Small Business and Exports, Gareth Thomas MP, attended the reception along with MPs, former MPs, academics, various trade association members and others from the world of business. It was an opportunity for BCF CEO, Tom Bowtell, to talk to guests about the key issues affecting the coatings sector, not least the need to resolve UK REACH and the broader chemicals regulatory regime in this country postBrexit.
Tom also expanded on the key campaign messages of BCF’s #EssentialCoatings campaign, giving examples of how critical
coatings are to the UK economy and society, and how they are everywhere around us, although often overlooked or taken for granted.
You can read more about our Essential Coatings campaign here: https://coatings. org.uk/page/EssentialCoatings
Commenting after the event, BCF CEO, Tom Bowtell, said:
“BCF is determined to raise the profile of the coatings sector amongst MPs and other key decision- and policymakers, and this reception was another way for us to achieve that aim. We are slowly ramping up our political engagement, making more contacts in this current Parliament, and ensuring that our key messages and asks cut through. It is
important that politicians know how important the coatings industry is to the UK economy and how we need proportionality, clarity and certainty on key areas of policy like chemical regulation.
“Membership of the Industry Forum is helping us to achieve those aims and, as such, we were delighted to be able to sponsor its Spring Reception. It was good to be joined by a number of BCF member companies too, who came along to fly the flag for BCF and the coatings industry in conversations with all the MPs and other guests.”
Email: info@bcf.co.uk
Visit: www.coatings.org.uk
BCF CEO Tom Bowtell addressing delegates at The Industry Forum
Tom Bowtell in discussion with Gareth Thomas MP, Minister for Small Business and Exports
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THE CRITICAL ROLE OF INSPECTORS IN PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION FOR OIL, GAS, AND ENERGY INDUSTRIES
Passive fire protection (PFP) is a fundamental safety measure widely used across the oil, gas, and energy sectors. One of the most common methods for protecting structural steel is the application of sprayapplied PFP coatings, which are crucial in preventing structural failure during a fire.
To advance knowledge, skills, and standards in this vital area, the industry group PFPNet was formed several years ago. Its membership includes major oil and gas companies, engineering design firms, fabricators, contractors, regulatory bodies, and PFP material manufacturers.
PFPNet has become the leading technical authority in passive fire protection within the energy sector, producing numerous guidance documents—some of which have been adopted by the International Standards Organisation (ISO).
PFPNet benefits from a diverse group of experts who help identify critical industry challenges. Feedback from members revealed that the installation of PFP materials has often fallen short of desired standards, resulting in significant failures. This highlighted the urgent need for improved training, not only for installers but also for inspectors tasked with ensuring the quality and safety of PFP applications.
Inspectors Need Specialised Training
A common misconception is to treat spray-applied PFP coatings as simply “paint,” leading to paint inspectors being assigned to oversee their application. However, these coatings are far more complex. They are typically made from epoxy or cementitious compounds, often requiring embedded mesh within the coating and subject to strict surface preparation, priming, and environmental conditions.
Furthermore, spray-applied PFP coatings are applied at much greater thicknesses
than paint—epoxy coatings can be up to 20mm thick, while cementitious coatings may be even thicker. These materials are critical safety elements designed to protect structures, safeguard personnel evacuation, and reduce environmental risks by containing hazardous substances during a fire.
Given their importance, the inspector’s role is pivotal in ensuring that PFP coatings are installed correctly. Proper training is essential for inspectors to understand the specific differences between PFP coatings and conventional paints, as well as to grasp the safety implications of their work.
A New Standard in PFP Inspector Training
In response to a jointly identified industry need for improved inspector training, PFPNet and Corrodere Academy collaborated to develop a specialised Level 2 online training course focused on the inspection of passive fire protection coatings.
The course has been accredited by PFPNet, ensuring it meets the highest industry standards. It is the first Level 2 qualification to fully integrate both epoxy and cementitious fire protection coatings, reflecting the evolving demands of the oil, gas, and energy sectors.
Delivered entirely online, the course offers flexible, accessible training for inspectors worldwide. It establishes a new benchmark for competency and quality in passive fire protection inspection, helping to drive safer installations and elevate industry standards.
The new Level 2 course is available now.
To find out more or to enrol, visit corrodere.com or contact Corrodere Academy today.
VENTILATION IN THE WORKPLACE
The law requires UK employers to provide adequate ventilation in enclosed areas of the workplace to remove stale or contaminated indoor air and bring in fresh air. This is mandatory as a result of UK ventilation regulations that must be strictly adhered to, with failure to do so risking employee sickness and financial penalties for the business.
While the law applies to all sectors, it’s particularly important when employees are working in a potentially hazardous environment. A risk assessment will identify issues and determine the necessary measures to minimise the risks of air pollutants to help achieve high quality indoor air.
Legal requirements for workplace ventilation
The employer must ensure every enclosed workspace has adequate ventilation to allow a “sufficient quantity of fresh or purified air” to enter under Regulation 6 of the Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations 1992.
Ventilation refers to the process of bringing in fresh air from outside, or purifying indoor air which may contain pollutants and impurities, or may be stale, hot and humid due to work processes and machinery. This can include ventilation in warehouse environments, for example, where a healthy and safe environment is essential to protect both employees and stored goods and equipment.
A more specific law, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, known as COSHH, covers the safe removal of harmful substances from the air by using a dust or fume extraction system. This protects
employees in high risk environments who may be exposed to pollutants such as welding fumes, or dust generated by various industrial processes.
COSHH legislation has been in place for more than 25 years, with the most recent version, in 2002, enhanced with amendments from the Control of Substances Hazardous to Work Regulations 1999.
UK ventilation laws were updated in 2021, when Part F of the Building Regulations was amended for buildings other than dwellings, with the changes coming into effect on 15th June 2022. The update included requirements for both mechanical and natural ventilation, with the emphasis on providing adequate air extraction and supply in different building types. This legislation works in conjunction with the Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations 1992.
Health risks associated with poor ventilation
The primary health issues include respiratory diseases, headaches, fatigue and long-term illnesses. It may also worsen conditions like asthma and allergies, or cause eye irritation. Around 12,000 deaths annually are linked to earlier exposure to dust and fumes in the workplace, with the majority being due to respiratory issues.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, an estimated 13,000 cases of breathing and lung problems every year are caused or worsened by working conditions. In addition, poor ventilation can contribute to the growth of mould, further impacting air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues and allergic reactions. Airborne irritants can lead to coughing and sneezing, headaches, dizziness, nausea and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
Main causes of poor ventilation
Common causes include an outdated infrastructure, lack of proper filtration
systems, inefficient HVAC systems and failure to address specific air quality needs in certain environments.
We can help businesses comply with the regulations and keep employees safe. When you purchase an AirBench dust extraction system, you’re choosing the UK’s leading range of downdraught benches that capture dust using internal filters, returning clean air to the room.
Similarly, our fume extraction systems provide a safe and healthy working environment. An essential part of your COSHH compliance, they can protect your people and products from gases, fumes, solvents and smoke. A build-up of fumes and debris can be highly dangerous over time, so removing pollutants effectively is crucial to employee safety. Using a powered fan to create a negative draught, our fume extractors remove airborne contaminants created by day-to-day processes.
Our systems include downdraught benches to capture fumes from solvents
or solder using filters to suit each specific application. In addition, our VertEx cross-draught systems extract and filter fumes through a wall, or we can provide a full booth with an optional VB system, enabling the operator to work in a fully extracted space without risk of contamination.
Penalties for sub-standard workplace ventilation
The consequences for businesses that fail to meet legal requirements are severe, as non-compliance can result in unlimited fines, damage to employee health, reduced productivity and even reputational harm.
Don’t leave anything to chance: contact us for information on our products and services, and make sure your business is compliant with workplace regulations.
Telephone: +44 (0) 1206 791 191
Visit: www.airbench.com
NOW EVERY THING IS WITHIN REACH
AIRBENCH UPGRADES WET BENCH TO DEVELOP FAN AND FILTER EFFICIENCY
Multiple technical improvements to a market leading product
AirBench have released further upgrades to our market leading WB wet downdraught bench for flammable dusts.
These changes are focussed on efficiency.
A move to high power EC fansets improves power consumption, allowing precision control of airflows and reducing start-up currents meaning easier installation, easier control, and lower energy usage.
EC fans use AC power and in internal inverter system to drive a DC motor meaning they operate at near peak efficiency at all speeds. Startup currents are low so there is no longer a need for over-sized circuits and breakers.
Continuing the theme of improved efficiency, further improvements to filtration mean that all units can be supplied with H13 final filtration with an improved modular housing.
These efficiency improvements bring the added benefit of reduced noise levels with all units now operating below the Lower Noise Action Level in typical installations.
Visit www.airbench.com/products/ airbench-downdraught-benches/ airbench-wb for more information, contact our team on sales@airbench. com for an on-site assessment –or call 01206 791191.
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AKZONOBEL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE WITH CNH PARTNERSHIP
AkzoNobel is celebrating a 50+ year partnership with CNH, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of agricultural and construction equipment (ACE), and how the super durability, performance, and colour consistency of its Interpon Powder coatings are enabling CNH to compete on a world stage.
One of the very first to use powder coatings to protect its combine harvesters, balers, and forage harvesters, CNH made the switch from AkzoNobel’s industrial paints to its Interpon ACE powder coatings 25 years ago. The AkzoNobel team helped CNH in adapting its existing liquid line to accommodate powder, while using the same floor space and oven.
CNH was also among the first to use Interpon’s low cure (Interpon ACE 2010 Low-E) powder coatings which have helped the company to reduce its energy consumption and therefore its carbon emissions.
“We chose AkzoNobel because it has the global capability to develop the powder coatings we needed to adapt to new market demands, and the demands of our own production facility,” says Frank Verhoye, who heads up Paint
Central Manufacturing at CNH at its Zedelgem plant in Belgium.
To meet evolving regulatory and environmental requirements, production was transitioned to a new generation of polyester products formulated without TGIC. This move ensured compliance with updated health and safety standards while supporting broader sustainability objectives.
The Interpon team helped in creating colours that accurately and precisely matched those required; CNH brands’
products are used mostly in the summer, so having a powder coating that has a high resistance to UV light was a major advantage. They similarly have good resistance to corrosion caused by high humidity or liquid spills, such as diesel and oil.
Martina Lösgen, Global Segment and Key Account Manager ACE and CV within AkzoNobel Powder Coatings says she is very proud of the long-term partnership with CNH: “We are very much looking forward to working with CNH on developing new product solutions that will help it to further reduce its carbon footprint and increase the long-life of the machinery and the future of its brands.”
To learn more about our partnership with CNH, visit https://www.interpon.com/ insights/cnh-testimonial
First for Sustainability
With our new Interpon D1036 Low-E powder coating, we’ve created an industry first: a powder coating that can cure as low as 150°C while still being Qualicoat class one certified. It can also cure up to 25% faster than conventional powders, reducing both energy consumption and carbon emissions, and significantly improving your coating line efficiency. Easy to apply Interpon D1036 Low-E has the same application properties as standard formulation, is backed by an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) and has a global warranty of up to 15 years to deliver the quality performance, color and style your customers need. It is an innovation that supports our collective commitment to sustainability throughout the value chain.
SCULPTOR AND GALVANIZERS
CELEBRATE STEELY STRONG PARTNERSHIP
weatherproofing of thesculptures was a crucial element of the creation process.
A Midlands galvanizing company is celebrating 15 years of working with renowned artist Luke Perry, of Industrial Heritage Stronghold, whose notable work has been featured all across the region.
Wednesfield-based Edward Howell Galvanizers Ltd, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd, started working with Luke in 2010 when he called upon their galvanizing expertise to help protect an impressive collection of 35 sculptures installed along Dudley No 2 Canal.
The project was commissioned to highlight the waterway’s crucial role in the creation of the Black Country, and as there was a large amount of metalwork involved in creating the artwork, ensuring durability and
Since then, Edward Howell Galvanizers has applied its molten zinc protective treatment to a vast collection of sculptures by Luke Perry, helping to protect them from rust and corrosion for decades to come.
The protective finish has been used on his iconic Sikh memorial in Wednesfield commemorating the Battle of Saragarhi, a series of four pieces installed in the Chapel Ash underpass in Wolverhampton, and a collection of historic sculptures situated in Colne Valley Regional Parkto name but a few.
Most recently, a 3.5 metre tall specially commissioned sculpture – expertly crafted by Luke and galvanized by Edward Howell Galvanizers – was unveiled on 13th December 2024 at Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, in recognition of the Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. v Budapest Honvéd FC
game 70 years ago to the day, and honouring the club’s historic role in European Championship history.
Anita Bate, General Manager of Edward Howell Galvanizers, said:
“It’s always a pleasure to work with Luke, and we’re delighted to be celebrating fifteen years of doing so. Luke’s incredible sculptures bring our local heritage and history to life, and being called upon to protect and future-proof his important artwork is an absolute privilege. We look forward to many more years of this wonderful partnership.”
Luke added: “The sheer amount of work and passion that is poured into my pieces means it’s imperative that I can trust the people who work on them. I’m hugely grateful to the team at Edward Howells Galvanizing, who are always so careful and are genuinely interested and respectful of each piece’s significance to our local communities. Galvanizing provides fantastic long-term protection from the elements to my sculptures, ensuring they can be enjoyed by many for years to come.”
Edward Howell Galvanizers Ltd is part of Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd, the largest hot-dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, the firm offers a truly national galvanizing service.
For further information, please contact Wedge Group Galvanizing on 01902 601944 or visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk.
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Galvanizing is the UK’s largest hot dip galvanizing organisation offering a national service, collection and delivery and 24hr turnaround on request. The group can process anything from small components to 29m structural beams.
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ROYAL WARRANT AWARDED TO WITHAM GROUP & NEW BRAND IDENTITY UNVEILED
The Witham Group, a leading UK manufacturer of premium lubricants and paints, announced the launch of its vibrant new brand identity, and the company's recently awarded new Royal Warrant of Appointment, as suppliers to His Majesty King Charles III.
Royal Warrants change with each new monarch and are a prestigious mark of excellence, awarded in recognition of goods and services supplied to the Royal Household and senior members of the Royal Family. This award underscores continued trust and confidence in Witham Group's unwavering commitment to high-quality products, services, and corporate, social and environmental governance. Witham proudly joins a distinguished cohort of Royal Warrant holders, including iconic British brands such as John Lewis, Waitrose, Jaguar Land Rover, and Barbour. His Majesty King Charles III retained 386 companies from his mother, Queen Elizabeth II’s, esteemed list of Royal Warrant Holders.
Witham Group has held the prestigious accolade of a Royal Warrant to the late Queen since 1991, and the appointment was granted for supplying lubricants and paints for the Sandringham Estate as well as other connected properties, estates and farmland.
A key aspect of the renewed Royal Warrant involves the updated use of the new Royal Crest, and this requirement prompted Witham Group to seize the opportunity to refresh its overall corporate branding and logo whilst updating where the Royal Crest can and cannot be used going forward. The striking new design features a bold, contemporary red ‘W’ incorporating subtle yet significant oil and paint droplets, symbolising the company's core business and representing movement and fluidity.
Taking the style back to Witham’s font of yesteryear, the new Witham branding is designed to help rationalise the brand for
many years to come. Nigel Bottom, Managing Director, commented:
“The renewal of our Royal Warrant is a tremendous honour and a testament to the dedication of our entire team. This milestone provided the perfect catalyst to evolve our visual identity, creating a modern and dynamic brand that reflects our heritage and future aspirations. We are excited to begin rolling out our new branding and the esteemed Royal Crest across all touchpoints, from our website and product labels to our depots and fleet.”
Visit: www.withamgroup.co.uk
GEMA JOINS QUALICOAT
By Chris Mansfield - QUALICOAT Chair
We are delighted to announce that Gema have joined QUALICOAT UK & Ireland as an equipment supplier member. We welcome their commitment to QUALICOAT and their input to continuously develop the Association’s Specification.
Gema is a well-established manufacturer of paint spray equipment, specialising in electrostatic powder coating systems. Founded in Switzerland and now a part of the global ITW Gema Group, the company has built a strong reputation for innovation, precision engineering, and high-quality products tailored for industrial applications. Their equipment is also widely used in sectors such as automotive, metal fabrication, and furniture manufacturing where consistent coating quality and efficiency are essential. Gema systems are
known for their robust design, user-friendly interfaces, and advanced control technologies that ensure optimal paint transfer efficiency and reduced material waste.
Over the years, Gema has expanded its range of solutions to meet evolving industry demands including both manual and automated spray systems. Their offerings typically include powder spray guns, control units, powder booths, and recovery systems, all designed to work together seamlessly. The integration of digital technologies and smart controls have further enhanced the flexibility and monitoring capabilities of Gema systems, enabling users to achieve high-quality finishes with minimal downtime. This combination of cutting-edge technology and durable design makes Gema a trusted choice for companies seeking reliable, high-performance coating equipment.
The Association’s next meeting takes place at the Samuel Hotel in Dublin on Wednesday 25th June , the meeting will be preceded with a networking evening in Dublin’s famous downtown district. Should you wish to attend a members meeting and apply for membership of QUALICOAT please get in touch through our website. All QUALICOAT UK & Ireland members are available to offer advice and can be found on the Association website at qualicoatuki.org
Chris MansfieldQUALICOAT UK & Ireland Chair
IMPROVE YOUR EFFICIENCY
USING AN OVERHEAD CONVEYOR
suitable for carrying capacities up to 9.000 kg per load bar.
The Railtechniek van Herwijnen Group of companies, which Stewart Gill Conveyors Ltd have been a long time member of, provides complete solutions for complex requirements in the field of materials handling. They produce a wide range of overhead conveyors and materials handling products, such as manual conveyors, chain conveyors, power and free conveyors and crane systems. For the surface finishing industry the most frequently delivered systems are Power and Free conveyors. P&F conveying systems offer a high degree of flexibility and they can be completely automated.
P&F systems are equipped with load bars to attach the products. The products can be transported through the complete process (Power) or stopped for buffering or treatment (Free) without stopping the complete system. Stewart Gill Conveyors Ltd offer a wide range of P&F systems,
They specialise in systems for wet paint and powder coating lines, blasting installations, assembly lines, logistic and storage systems. A system that they offer specially for the surface-treatment industry is a dipping tank crane system. Dipping cranes transport metal products in and out of a series of pre-treatment tanks.
Advantages of a Power & Free Conveyor
Compact and save design with movable parts inside the tack
Modular system with standard parts
Flexible design for optimal lay-out planning
Advanced automatic control system with touch screen user interface and remote access.
Components
Different standard components are available to design the most optimal conveyor lay-out. The track sections are available as Power & Free, Free or only Power in standard or cut-to-length sections.
Bends can be horizontal or vertical. The radius of the bends is often standard. Non standard bends can be made on request. The power chain comes in standard chain link pitches and can be fitted with open or closed bearings.
Depending on product dimensions and the conveyor lay-out the product carrier can have different trolley configurations. Using multiple trolleys the load capacity of carrier can be increased.
A Power & Free system needs a drive system. Depending on system parameters the drive mechanism can be a caterpillar drive or a screw drive unit. For safety all drive units are utilised with a torque limiter that disconnects the drive force between the drive unit and gear motor.
Stop stations are available as standard design, ATEX or high temperature for curing ovens. Stop stations are controlled and monitored by the PLC/PC control system.
Switches are installed at the position where carriers must divert to other directions. Pneumatic cylinders with position sensors are used to actuate the switches. Depending on the position in the lay-out switches can also be self-switching. Switches are also controlled and monitored by the main control system.
To avoid as much as possible wear of the chain and trolleys a lubrication unit can be used. This automatic controlled device lubricates parts such as the chain links and bearings on a pre-set interval.
Special parts are available such as lift- and drop sections, transfer chains, pneumatic pushers and product rotation units.
There are also solutions to have a dipping tank crane system take over the products from the carriers and after the dipping process hang them back onto the carriers.
To find the best conveyor solution for your needs contact Stewart Gill Conveyors Ltd.
Telephone: +44 (0) 1926 641424
Email: info@stewart-gill.co.uk
Visit: www.stewart-gill.co.uk.com
Handling Solutions
Product Overview
Manual Monorail Systems
Unit loads up to 3000kg
Monorail Chain Conveyors
Unit loads up to 300kg
Power & Free Conveyors
Unit loads up to 7000kg
Floor Conveyors
Unit loads up to 500kg
Stewart Gill Conveyors Ltd have been supplying overhead conveyors into all sectors of industry for over 70 years.
As a long time member of the Railtechniek van Herwijnen BV Group based in the Netherlands, Stewart Gill Conveyors can offer a comprehensive range of overhead conveyor products which are capable of handling unit loads up to 7000kg.
Stewart Gill Conveyors Ltd offer complete manufacture, installation and commissioning, coupled with fully documented instruction, operation and maintenance manuals.
We do:
In-House 3D CAD engineering
In-House manufactoring in the UK and EU
In-House design of PLC/PC control systems
Industry 4.0
Worldwide installation and commissioning
Remote support, service & inspection Stewart
Part of the
THE USE MANUAL AND SEMI-AUTOMATIC OVERHEAD CONVEYORS IN PRODUCTION AUTOMATION BY NIKO CONVEYORS
- Act as storage buffers between automated and manual operations, absorbing variability.
There is a general assumption that powered conveyors are the future of automation, however that is not necessarily the case. Manual and semi-automatic conveyors can also be used within production automation and can in some cases provide a more efficient and effective solution.
NIKO conveyors are specialist in manual and semi-automatic overhead conveyor systems and the use them to assist within the automation of production lines in these six ways.
1. Streamlining Part Flow Between Stations
Overhead conveyors transport parts between workstations with minimal floor space usage:
- Ideal for lean manufacturing and just-in-time (JIT) production.
- Ensures continuous part movement, reducing bottlenecks in automated lines.
- Can feed parts directly into robotic cells or CNC machines.
2. Buffering and Accumulation
Semi-automatic systems can:
- Accumulate work-in-progress (WIP) between processes to balance different cycle times.
- Enable offline rework or inspection zones without disrupting flow.
3. Ergonomic Loading and Unloading
Manual conveyors assist human operators in:
- Positioning parts at ergonomic heights for loading into or unloading from automation systems.
- Reducing strain from lifting or moving heavy parts manually.
- Enabling collaborative workflows where humans and machines interact efficiently.
4. Step-by-Step Process Automation
Semi-automatic conveyors move parts in steps:
- Stop at fixed positions for robotic operations (e.g. welding, painting, assembly).
- Use sensors or RFID to detect load and trigger actions automatically.
- Controlled by PLCs to sync with other automated equipment.
5. Integration with Smart Technologies
Overhead conveyors can be enhanced with:
- IoT sensors to track part location, temperature, or load.
- Vision systems for inspection as parts move through the line.
- Barcode/RFID systems for identifying and routing parts automatically.
6. Flexible, Modular Automation
Manual and semi-automatic overhead conveyors support:
- Modular cell-based manufacturing, ideal for high-mix, lowvolume environments.
- Easy reconfiguration of production lines as automation needs evolve.
- Cost-effective scaling from manual to full automation.
Examples
of Use Cases
- Automotive Assembly: Moving car bodies between welding and painting robots.
- Food Processing: Semi-automatic conveyors used for product drying, coating, or cooling before packaging automation.
- Electronics: Moving circuit boards between manual assembly and automated testing stations.
Please contact NIKO Conveyors to find out more about how manual and semi-automatic conveyors can be used for production automation.
Contact NIKO Conveyors: Visit: www.niko.co.uk
Email: sales@niko.co.uk
Surface Technologies
l Controlled Shot Peening
l Laser Peening
l Keronite PEO
l Thermal Spray Coatings
l Dry Film Lubricants
l Organic and Inorganic Coatings
l Parylene Ultra-thin Conformal Coatings
l Superfinishing
l On-site Processing
l Material Testing and Analysis
l NADCAP, ISO 9001:2008, ISO 13485, AS9100 Rev D
BLASTING: SCALING UP WITH AUTOMATED BLASTING –SUPPORTING MUIJS
CONTAINERREPARATIE’S GROWTH THROUGH INNOVATION
When Muijs Containerreparatie sought a solution to enhance their blasting efficiency and improve working conditions, they turned to Blastman Robotics. Specializing in container repairs and surface treatment, Muijs needed a system that could handle old containers with heavy paint layers, ensuring speed, consistency, and safety. Blastman provided an automated blasting solution that transformed their operations.
Streamlining production with Blastman’s automated blasting system
Before implementing the robotic blasting system, Muijs relied on manual blasting, which limited their daily output to just two containers. Since integrating Blastman’s
technology, production has surged dramatically. “Now, we are blasting around 15 to 20 containers per day, and if we want, we could handle even more,” says Leko
The transition to automation came with a learning curve; however, the ability to fine-tune processes allowed Muijs to achieve optimal performance fairly quickly.
“The first three months after the robot was installed, including a lot of trying and learning how to make programs. This is, of course, a challenge everyone faces, and already after 3–6 months, we had defined solid programs,” Muijs explains.
Blastman B20CX is an 8-axis gantry-type robot with a control cabin. The robot is designed to replace manual blasting and is suited perfectly for non-serial and serial production. Automatic blast programs can be easily made by Blastman Studio.
Addressing challenges with Blastman’s expertise
Operating in an environment with old containers meant that dust accumulation posed a significant challenge. As Muijs’ blasting chamber was initially designed for blasting new workpieces, the system had to endure more dust than it was meant to. This caused, for example, the hoses to wear out quickly. “Blastman stepped in right away with tailored dust control solutions that resolved our issue. The situation was handled very quickly and efficiently,” Muijs recalls.
Beyond technical solutions, Muijs emphasizes the value of reliable support. “If I send them an email, I receive a response within a few hours. Sometimes, it might end up building into a chain with 5–6 people sharing ideas with me, or with each other. I like that.
Blastman B20CX robot blasting container
Blastman B20CX is an 8-axis gantry-type robot with a control cabin. The robot is designed to replace manual blasting and is suited perfectly for non-serial and serial production. Automatic blast programs can be easily made by Blastman Studio.
Metallic plate heat exchanger
• low space requirement
• high thermal and mechanical stability
• easy to clean
Coated plate heat exchanger
• custom-made dimensions
+44 / 1509 673 656
• for process liquids with strong acids
• anti-adhesive coating made of thermal conductive fluorpolymer
significant reduction in encrustations
Polymer heat exchanger
• different dimensions
• highest chemical resistance
• several planar layers of tube coils made of PFA large heat transfer surface to volume ratio high temperature- and pressure resistance
What’s more, I always get a follow-up to ensure everything is fine. Problems are solved very fast with Blastman,” he states.
The value of aftersales support
Blastman’s commitment to customer success extends beyond installation. It’s after-sales services provide contracts either during projects or for existing customers, including scheduled maintenance, programming services, and any process-related assistance, as well as spare parts supply to enable customers to maximize uptime and system longevity.
Muijs Containerreparatie recently renewed their Service Contract, ensuring continued maintenance and spare parts availability. “Everything is running
smoothly,” Leko Muijs notes, adding about the importance of cooperation.
“Some companies simply provide the machinery. Blastman’s approach goes beyond that—it’s about long-term partnership and operational reliability. For us, also, the procuring of new robots in the future is easier and faster because we already know we can lean on Blastman. That trust is crucial,” Muijs emphasizes.
Expansion of automated blasting
With Blastman’s aid, Muijs has doubled its painting capacity. Encouraged by the success of its robotic blasting system, Muijs has built a second painting chamber and is expanding its operations by building a third and creating new business.
“We are starting an extra company solely for blasting and painting metal structures,” Muijs reveals. The investment in automation has not only improved speed and quality but also enhanced workplace safety and employee well-being.
For Muijs Containerreparatie, Blastman Robotics has proven to be more than a supplier—they are a trusted partner in innovation and efficiency. With automation driving productivity and after-sales support ensuring reliability, Muijs is well-positioned for future growth.
Link to the video: https://youtu.be/aMQU6n34f0Q
For more information: Telephone: +358 20 7418 140 Email: sales@blastman.com
Visit: www.blastman.com
Before and after blasting
ANNIVERSARY ROBOT PAINTS VEHICLE BODIES IN HUNGARY
Dürr’s 19,000th robot to be delivered to BYD's first European plant
Dürr's 19,000th painting robot will be delivered to BYD's first European plant in Szeged, Hungary. Equipped with the high-speed EcoBell3 rotary atomiser, this robot will provide BYD with exceptional paint quality while supporting sustainable production.
BYD Auto Company Limited, a leading Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer, is among the first Chinese car manufacturers to establish a factory in Europe. In total, Dürr has supplied more than 120 painting and handling robots to the Hungary plant, offering environmentally friendly and efficient painting solutions for electric vehicles.
Latest robot generation for painting process
The plant’s painting lines are equipped with Dürr's EcoRP series robots in both 6-axis and 7-axis models, automating interior and exterior painting in coordination with handling robots. The 7-axis robot also assists with opening the hoods, while the 6-axis robot efficiently paints the exterior of the vehicles.
Innovative technology drives sustainable production
BYD has adopted Dürr's EcoBell3 high-speed rotary atomizer to ensure flawless painting quality with uniform shade, flow and layer thickness. In combination with advanced environmental and color-changing technology, the atomiser family enables fast color changes and reduces energy consumption.
The integration of the standardised and modular EcoSupply P special paint system from Dürr will further increase efficiency. The piggable system returns paint residue to the container, significantly reducing both paint and solvent residue.
For BYD's various EV models, Dürr has customised flexibleaction feather roller cleaning robots to efficiently remove dust and dirt particles from complex body surfaces.
Globalised expertise supporting Chinese automakers abroad
With 139 subsidiaries in 33 countries, Dürr leverages its global project experience and localised networks across Europe, Southeast Asia and South America to provide comprehensive support for Chinese automakers in their international expansion. Dürr’s expertise in local regulations, engineering design, equipment manufacturing and intelligent control ensures efficient project execution, helping Chinese automotive companies to establish a strong overseas presence.
Visit: www.durr.com
(from left to right): Marcus Treppschuh, Senior Vice President of Dürr Systems AG, and Frank Zimmermann, Senior Manager Sales at Dürr.
E-ROBOT+3 3D IS A VERTICAL AXIS PAINTING ROBOT INTEGRATED WITH A HIGH-TECH CONTOUR DETECTION SYSTEM
This robot performs precise vertical movements according to the data provided by the E-SENSE+3 part detection system and works integrated with E-ROBOT+3 AXIS independent gun systems. It offers low maintenance requirements along with high carrying capacity, precise position and speed control features.
Space-saving slim column design
130 mm vertical gun spacing optimizes coverage areas
Integrated serial communication technology for performance monitoring and feedback
Up to 14 kg payload capacity for each independent axis
E-ROBOT+3 3D coating robot optimizes your production processes by reducing operational complexity while increasing the efficiency and quality of your automaticcoating systems
E-ROBOT+3 AXIS is a single gun movement system designed for parts with complex geometries that require high precision and homogeneous coating quality in the painting process. It is equipped with a high-tech servo motor and timing belt movement mechanism, which gives its system smooth and repeatable movement capability.Motion system designed for smooth inner surface and linear flow.
Precise servo control at variable speeds
Perfect coating processes with high repeatability
E-AXIS+3 integration for up to a maximum of 8 guns
Quiet and smooth operation with toothed belt
Ability to work effectively in long and short strokes
Visit: www.electron.com.tr
Automatic instead of manual de-flashing of plastic switch housings
INVESTING IN A PLASTIC DE-FLASHING SHOT BLAST MACHINE CUTS THE PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS BY NEARLY 50%
Achieving a competitive edge in the market by cost-efficient production of innovative products. A global leader in the production of electromechanical components for safe and efficient switching operations and the protection of direct current applications followed this guideline by automating the de-flashing of plastic housings at its German location. The company chose a Rösler wire mesh belt blast machine, model RSAB 370-T1+1, compliant with ATEX regulations. This investment helped to practically cut the personnel costs in half.
The Schaltbau GmbH is a globally leading supplier of direct current (DC) solutions. This multi-division company, located in Munich, specializes in electrification products and solutions for many industries. For decades railway customers
have been utilizing the comprehensive portfolio of contactors, plug connections, switches and safety components. The trademark Eddicy stands for ultra-modern solutions for safe and reliable switching operations and the protection of direct
current applications in the sectors energy and e-vehicles. These innovative products are produced at several locations in Germany, Europe, the United States and Asia including a plant in Aldersbach, located in Bavaria, Germany.
Reducing manufacturing costs through automation
Armin Voggenreiter, director of operations at the Aldersbach location of the Schaltbau GmbH, comments: “To remain competitive at our Aldersbach plant we work hard to identify cost reduction possibilities for practically every single manufacturing step.” As part of a lean manufacturing project the production of housing components was extensively analyzed. These are molded in a pressing operation utilizing melamine/polyester materials. Due to some material overflow in the press unwanted flashes are created, which must be removed to ensure the safe assembly and functionality of the components.
The blow-off system at the machine exit ensures that the housing components are leaving the blast machine without any adhering dust particles and residual blast media.
The installation of the flexible wire mesh belt blast machine RSAB 370 T1+1 (center) with ATEX compliant dust collector (left) helped reduce the personnel costs for de-flashing of housing components by nearly 50%.
To date the flash removal was done manually requiring a lot of time and personnel. For example, one person was stationed at each press. Therefore, automating the de-flashing operation offered a substantial cost-saving opportunity.
The project managers at Schaltbau presented this task to two equipment manufacturers, whose machines are already utilized in other manufacturing areas of the company. Armin Voggenreiter explains: “Rösler was one of the two suppliers we talked to. We know this company well, because it has been a reliable partner of ours in the field of mass finishing.”
A major requirement for the selection of the right blast machine was that the de-flashing process had to be extremely gentle. For example, the components must not tumble over each other during the entire process, and they must be completely free of any residual blast media when coming out of the machine. “For this challenging task Rösler presented the by far most convincing equipment concept”, remembers the director of operations. Rösler offered the highly flexible wire mesh belt blast machine, model RSAB 370-T1+1,
The optional conveyor belt transport system returns the finished work pieces to the loading station where the operator removes them manually.
The innovative products from Schaltbau GmbH, such as contactors, are – among others -- used in the sectors railway, energy and e-vehicles. The de-flashing operation facilitates assembly and ensures the functionality of the electrical systems.
as the most suitable solution for the continuous, gentle de-flashing of the housing components. The de-flashing trials at Rösler were conducted in a comparable machine. “The excellent results of the processing trials convinced us that the Rösler equipment concept was by far the best for our purposes”, concludes Voggenreiter.
Effective de-flashing with less personnel
After they have been pressed, the duroplast components, with dimensions of up to 350 x 215 x 45 mm and weighing up to 575 Gramm, are manually placed on the 370 mm wide, wear-resistant wire mesh belt. The transport speed through the blast machine, precisely adapted to the respective work pieces and the severity of the flashes, is stored in a processing program, which can be selected by the operator at the control panel. The blast chamber is equipped with two W32 turbines, which were
specially developed for the treatment of plastic components. One turbine is placed above and the other below the wire mesh belt. The mesh is wide enough that the blast media – in the form of polyamide pellets – reaches the work pieces on all sides so that they can be de-flashed in one single pass through machine. Any dust created during the process is continuously removed. Moreover, the standard blow-off system and the additional compressed air blow-off device ensure that any residual blast media is removed from the deflashed components.
At the machine outlet a chute transfers the finished housing components to a separate conveyor belt system in “L” shape design for returning the components to the loading section, where they are removed by hand. “The shot blast machine allowed us to reduce our personnel costs by around 40 %”, reports Armin Voggenreiter. To minimize the operating noise, the entire shot blast machine is placed in a noise absorbing
Celebrating 40 years in business
This year, marks five decades as an independent powder coating specialist. We are proud to have one of the largest ranges of stock powder coatings in the UK, available for next day delivery. We have thousands of satisfied customers across diverse markets including construction, agriculture, leisure and retail as well as renowned architects and design houses.
cabin. To offset the resulting shortening of the loading area, Rösler increased the length of the wire mesh belt.
Safe processing and operation in compliance with ATEX regulations
The standard, highly effective blast media cleaning system with vibratory screen and air-wash separator, augmented by the automatic media replenishment system, ensures that the blast media mix in circulation always contains the optimal pellet size distribution. The RSAB 370-T1+1 at Schaltbau also contains an anti-static system with automatic compound dosing. This practically eliminates the risk of dust and blast media adhering to the de-flashed components. The anti-static system and the installation of an ATEX compliant dust co of the safety measures required by ATEX.
Visit: www.rosler.com
25-YEAR TEST CONFIRMS LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE OF AKZONOBEL’S RESICOAT POWDER COATING IN PROTECTING POTABLE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FROM
in the efficacy of their supply infrastructure.
A Resicoat powder coating from AkzoNobel has become one of the first products of its kind to complete a 25-year real-world study to prove its ability to protect valves and fittings as the infrastructure of potable water from the damaging effects of corrosion.
The study, conducted in Bad Bentheim, Germany, by an industry association and a water board and verified by the MPA Hannover testing institute, has independently confirmed that Resicoat epoxy powder coating provide durable, long-term anti-corrosion protection for drinking water supply systems.
The results, published this month, demonstrate a new standard in protecting potable water networks and give water infrastructure companies and their customers even greater confidence
Water systems often fail due to corrosion of pipes and other metal components, such as valves and fittings. Anti corrosion protection is essential to prevent physical failures that can lead to leaking, burst pipes, flooding and unsafe water supplies.
A fully operational test valves and fittings installed in a drinking water pipe had epoxy powder coatings applied before being buried two meters underground, the standard depth for water pipes worldwide.
When the pipeline was unearthed, it showed no leaks and water flowed freely and Resicoat’s epoxy coatings displayed no delamination or cracking. With no impacting signs of corrosion, the results showed the integrity of the pipeline had been preserved.
Yidong Meng, Global Functional Segment Manager at AkzoNobel Powder Coatings, says the tests prove how epoxy powder coatings can deliver the long-term corrosion protection needed to extend the service life of water systems:
“In doing so, these solutions make water supply systems more reliable, and help reduce maintenance costs,” he says.
“Epoxy powder coatings are more dependable than ‘traditional’ paint or enamel coatings and consequently help minimize water wastage due to leaks and floods. Ultimately, this ensures a reliable, sustainable source of clean drinking water for millions of people around the world.”
Resicoat R series is high quality thermosetting epoxy powder coating specifically designed for the coating protection of cast iron or steel valves and fittings used in water and gas distribution networks. The powder coating is applied in one layer on a preheated surface by fluidized bed or electrostatic spray application.
Lars Walther, General Manager of GSK, says that the results prove epoxy powder coatings are the best answer to tackling corrosion: “This comprehensive study provides the market with important, independent, and irrefutable proof of the value of epoxy powder coatings in safeguarding the integrity of potable water supplies. It will give even greater confidence to water suppliers that one of the most challenging of all challenging issues to their pipes and associated infrastructure has a credible, long-term solution.”
The Bad Bentheim long-term test involved more than 10 companies and was jointly run by the GSK (Quality Association Heavy-Duty Corrosion Protection of Valves and Fittings with Powder Coating e.V.) and the Wasserbeschaffungsverband Obergrafschaft Bad Bentheim (Water Supply Association of Upper County Bad Bentheim and Surrounding Areas).
You can find more information about Resicoat solutions for valves and fittings on our website: https://www.interpon.com/products/ functional/resicoat-r
Coatings Inspection Equipment
Pleated Polymeric Filters
WAM Silotop
Airmaster
Donaldson
Camfil Goldcone Air Filtration
TOP SUMMER TIPS FOR AUTOMOTIVE REFINISHERS
As temperatures rise, automotive refinishing becomes more challenging. High heat can impact everything from product performance to application results. To help refinishers maintain top-quality results through the summer months, Sherwin-Williams has compiled some essential tips and practices to keep your finishes flawless and your shop efficient, even in the hottest conditions.
1. Choose the right hardener and thinner
One of the most critical steps in summer refinishing is selecting the correct hardener and thinner based on ambient temperature. Slow hardeners and thinners are specifically formulated for higher temperatures, allowing for proper flow and levelling without rushing the cure process.
However, consistency is key. If you opt for a slower hardener, always pair it with the matching thinner. Mixing mismatched components can lead to gloss retention issues or undesirable surface imperfections. Be sure to consult the product’s Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for the recommended combinations if you’re unsure.
2. Minimise thinner use in clear coats
When working with clear coats in high heat, it’s best to use the minimum amount of thinner permitted by the mixing ratio. Excessive thinner, especially in hot conditions, can cause the clear coat to dry too quickly, leading to dry spray or poor flow. Staying within the lower range of the TDS-specified ratio helps to maintain better control and finish quality.
3. Avoid direct sunlight on products
Never store paint products, thinners, or hardeners in direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and UV rays can change a product’s viscosity and chemical balance, affecting
its performance. Always keep materials in a cool, shaded storage area, ideally within the temperature range specified by the manufacturer.
Also, remember to always replace the lid on hardeners as soon as possible after pouring. Exposure to air, even briefly, can cause chemical breakdowns, reducing the product’s effectiveness and pot life.
4. Cool down the spray booth between jobs
Spray booth temperatures can rise significantly after each job, especially during back-to-back work in the summer. Cooling down the booth between cycles is essential to avoid carry-over heat affecting the next application. Overheated panels can make it difficult for the paint to stay wet, leading to uneven finishes or dry spray.
5. Use a larger nozzle at high temperatures
In hotter environments, switching to the largest nozzle setup recommended in the TDS can make a noticeable difference. A larger nozzle allows for greater material output, which helps the paint remain wet on the surface and improves coverage. This is especially important for basecoats and clear coats where a consistent, wet film is crucial.
6. Use an anti-static cleaner for final wipes
Summer heat often comes with dry, dusty conditions. Static charges on panels can
attract fine dirt and debris, compromising the finish. Using an anti-static cleaner as a final wipe reduces the attraction of dust and results in a cleaner, more professional outcome. It’s a simple step that makes a big impact, especially on high-visibility panel.
7.
Mix
per layer for larger repairs
For larger repairs in high temperatures, we recommend mixing product per layer rather than preparing a full batch. Heat accelerates curing, shortening pot life and changing viscosity mid-application. By mixing fresh product for each coat, you maintain the correct consistency and avoid issues like clumping, uneven coverage, or product waste.
8. Spray during the cooler parts of the day
Timing is everything in summer refinishing. Schedule painting for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day. Cooler conditions help maintain better control of viscosity, spray pattern, and drying times. Not only does this improve finish quality, but it also reduces stress on your team and equipment.
You could also coordinate your shop workflow to prioritise prep and non-paint activities during midday hours and reserve your spray booth time for when conditions are most favourable.
Summer refinishing doesn’t have to mean compromised quality. By adjusting your materials, workflow, and application techniques, you can still maintain excellent results. Sherwin-Williams offers a full range of temperature-appropriate products and expert support to help you keep every job running smoothly, no matter the season.
For more information, visit our website: industrial.sherwin-williams.com
Aircraft Corrosion ProtectionA CRITICAL COMPONENT OF AVIATION SAFETY
Environmental Benefits
Preventing aircraft corrosion is essential for safety, cost efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Safety First
Corrosion weakens aircraft structures and vital components such as electronic systems, posing serious risks to passengers and crew. Preventing this is crucial to maintaining airworthiness.
Economic and Operational Efficiency
Effective corrosion control reduces repair costs, minimizes downtime, and extends aircraft lifespan. It also helps maintain optimal fuel efficiency and weight balance by preserving the integrity of aerodynamic surfaces.
Regulatory Compliance
Authorities like the FAA and EASA mandate strict corrosion inspection and control. Meeting these standards ensures continued certification and safe operation.
Corrosion protection reduces material waste and the need for harsh chemicals used in treating severe damage, promoting sustainability.
Readiness and Reliability
Maintaining a corrosion-free fleet ensures operational reliability and enhances overall efficiency.
Advanced Corrosion Protection Solutions
Protective coatings and treatments are key tools. One example is SuperCORR A, a high-performance lubricant and corrosion inhibitor. Its unique formula offers long-lasting protection against moisture, corrosion, static electricity, and wear - ideal for the demanding conditions of aviation environments.
In conclusion, aircraft corrosion protection is not optional, it’s the cornerstone of safe, efficient, and sustainable aviation. Investing in proven solutions ensures aircraft longevity, compliance, and operational excellence.
SuperCORR A specialist barrier film corrosion protection for aircraft
EnviroTech Europe produce and supply around the world advanced corrosion protection products, based on approved synthetic materials, to provide quality solutions to a diverse range of lubrication and corrosion problems.
SuperCORR A is a unique and proprietary formulation with long-lasting, anti-corrosion inhibitors providing a superior lubrication coefficient and protection against moisture, wear, general and fretting corrosion, static electricity, corona, and other electro migration problems. The non-flammable film is only 7 microns (0.007mm) in thickness, is not a wax or oil-based product and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides, petroleum-based material, or halogens, to meet the EU RoHS directive.
The use of SuperCORR A cannot only bring financial savings in reduced maintenance and replacement costs but more importantly greater safety. It is much simpler and a lot less costly to prevent corrosion than to repair or replace damaged aircraft equipment or a component that failed because of corrosion.
SuperCORR A is a non-flammable “self-healing” ultra-thin film lubricant with a proprietary corrosion preventive compound that will not harden or crack, is not a wax or oil-based product and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides or halogens.
SuperCORR A is packaged in aerosol cans making application to component parts easy for engineering crews in difficult locations and conditions. Unpainted mild steel will not rust on exterior surfaces directly exposed to sea water environments for at least 6 months, protecting electrical connectors, switches, chains, drive shafts from corrosion while maintaining lubrication on moving surfaces.
EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL
Extremely long-lasting, specially formulated and proprietary anti-corrosive inhibitor.
Eliminates premature failure of components created by moisture, general or fretting corrosion.
Prevents deterioration and contamination on all surfaces of electronic and electrical equipment and mechanical close tolerance moving components.
Reliability increased, maintenance intervals increased, costs reduced, manufacturers save costly warranty service calls or product re-call.
HISTORY
SuperCORR A was originally developed for the U.S. Air Force to comply with military specifications and to prevent electrical and electronic components from systems failures caused by corrosion. It became the industry standard for avionic corrosion protection within MROs (maintenance, repair and operations) and OEMs (overhaul and original equipment manufacturers). It’s unique ability to displace water and provide a performance enhancing level of corrosion protection has led to it being used in many other applications and industries worldwide.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website https://www.envirotech-europe.com/ supercorr-a for information about other uses and applications for SuperCORR A.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our website contact form. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Visit: www.envirotech-europe.com
SIEBEC UK Ltd, Stafford +44 (0) 1785 227700 sales@siebec.co.uk www.siebec.co.uk
L SERIES | Medium flow rate filter
P SERIES | Ultra-high flow rate filter
A SERIES | Mechanical seals pump
M SERIES | Magnetic drive pump T SERIES | Vertical pump
DEVELOPING ULTRASONIC CLEANERS TO BOOST CUSTOMER’S
which had already been trialled by Guyson.
Airedale Group Division: Metal Surface Treatment
Customer: Guyson International Ltd
Products:
Formula GP – General purpose ultrasonic cleaner
Formula PB – Polisher and Brightener Ultrasonic Cleaner
Formula HD – Heavy Duty Ultrasonic Cleaner
Background:
Guyson has manufactured blast finishing systems for more than 80 years and following the acquisition of Kerry Ultrasonics in 2004, it moved into the manual and automated ultrasonic equipment market.
However, it was not able to supply compatible consumable detergents for
use with their systems and found itself directing customers towards other companies for their ultrasonic cleaning detergents.
Brief:
Guyson tasked Airedale Group with formulating a range of products it could sell under the Guyson brand that included an acidic polisher, a heavy-duty caustic, and an all-purpose cleaner. This would allow Guyson to fully support its customer base with a full range of equipment, preventative maintenance, spare parts and liquid consumables.
The products had to equal or outperform the existing market-leading solutions
Action:
Airedale Group utilised its in-house team of chemists to initially create a series of sample chemistry.
These samples of ultrasonic cleaners were then tested in Guyson’s on-site testing centre. The heavy-duty caustic product underwent a series of modifications to the dosing rate to ensure the strength was retained as it was transformed from a powder to a solution.
Outcome:
Results from the final formulas showed that when compared to other leading solutions on the market, Airedale Group’s formulas were frequently better performing than the leading alternatives.
The new range - Formula GP General purpose Ultrasonic Cleaner, Formula PB Polisher and Brightener Ultrasonic Cleaner, Formula HD Heavy Duty Ultrasonic Cleaner – were launched by Guyson at ChemUK and are currently being supplied to customers working in environments such as laboratories, workshops, garages, jewellers, restoration companies, medical implant and printed circuit board manufacturers, aerospace and plastics companies.
Ian Rayner, Sales Manager at Guyson, explains: “Airedale Group has proven to be a very supportive manufacturing partner, offering valuable advice regarding the technical aspects and legislation relating to their products. We can now be a one-stop-shop for our ultrasonic customers and can also provide a free testing service which allows customers to evaluate the benefits of both our cleaning equipment and detergents on their products before making a purchase.”
To find out more visit www.airedale-group.com
Leading-edge Metal Pre-treatment Technologies
SurTec 650 - Tri-chrome Passivation for Aluminium
Best-in-class bare metal corrosion protection and excellent paint adhesion
Outstanding filiform corrosion resistance
QPL-listed; Meets MIL-DTL-81706-B and MIL-DTL 5541-F
Specifically designed for the application in the architectural industry
Leading-edge performance in filiform corrosion resistance
Easy handling without additives as make-up/replenisher system
Corrosion resistance almost on the level of ZnPhos
Very high flash-rust stability
No mapping effect when E-coated
SurTec 609 EC - Phosphate Replacement for Multi-Metal Pre-Treatment
OPTEON™ SF80: A NEXTGENERATION SOLVENT AND LEADING 3M NOVEC ALTERNATIVE
As the manufacture and supply of 3M™ Novec™ fluids comes to an end by late 2025, many industries are urgently seeking a high-performance, futureproof alternative. Opteon™ SF80 is widely regarded as the leading replacement on the market.
This next-generation industrial cleaning fluid offers powerful solvency, excellent materials compatibility, and improved environmental credentials. It is nonflammable, has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), and boasts an ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) of less than 2.5. Crucially, it contains no fluorinated greenhouse gases, ensuring full compliance with current EU regulations.
Composition:
Opteon™ SF80 is a blend of proprietary fluids and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene (t-DCE) with azeotrope-like properties. It offers superior solvency (KB value = 99), making it a strong alternative to solvents like trichloroethylene (TCE) and n-propyl bromide (nPB).
Key Features and Benefits:
Superior cleaning with high solvency power (KB value = 99)
Fast drying due to optimal boiling point (47°C/117°F)
High soil loading capacity, reducing equipment downtime
Stable composition during use
Requires no stabiliser maintenance
Compatible with existing vapor degreasing equipment
No surfactants needed, ensuring residue-free cleaning
Recyclable and reusable
Non-flammable, low odour, and low toxicity
Excellent environmental profile: low GWP (<2.5), no ODP
PosiTector ® Inspection
Unrivaled probe interchangeability for all of your inspection needs.
Coating Thickness Probes
n Ferrous n Non-Ferrous n Combination n Ultrasonic
Surface Profile Probes
n Depth Micrometer n Replica Tape Reader
Environmental Conditions Probes
n Integral n Cabled Magnetic Probe n Anemometer Probe
n 1/2” NPT n Infrared
Hardness Probes
n Shore n Barcol
Salt Contamination Probe
n Bresle Method
Ultrasonic Wall Thickness Probes
n Corrosion n Multiple Echo Thru-Paint n Precision
n Low Frequency n Xtreme
Customized Inspection Kits...
Build your own kit from a selection of gauge bodies and probes to suit your needs.
Backwards Compatibility! The redesigned PosiTector gauge body accepts ALL coating thickness (6000/200), environmental (DPM), surface profile (SPG/RTR), salt contamination (SST), hardness (SHD/BHI), and ultrasonic wall thickness (UTG) probes manufactured since 2012.
Opteon™ SF80 has been evaluated using ASTM G122 tests, demonstrating high effectiveness in cleaning a range of contaminants. It shows excellent compatibility with metals like stainless steel, copper, brass, and aluminium, and with various plastics and elastomers like Teflon™, polyethylene, and Viton™, though not compatible with plastics like PMMA, ABS, and polycarbonate.
Safety and Environmental Properties:
No flash point, classified as non-flammable
Low VOC content (1278 g/L)
No ozone depletion potential
Ultra Low GWP (<2.5)
A Closer Look at Comparing 3M Novec and Opteon™ SF80® Solvency Power
When evaluating cleaning solvents, solvency power is a critical factor. The Kb value, measured by ASTM D1133, is a common indicator of a solvent’s cleaning strength. Here’s how Opteon™ SF80® compares to some of the 3M Novec products below.
As you will see with a Kb value of 99, Opteon™ SF80® offers the highest cleaning power in its class. This increased solvency can lead to more efficient cleaning processes and improved outcomes for your business.
Opteon™ SF80® specialty fluid is designed to meet the high solvency needs in the industrial cleaning market. Opteon™ SF80® is a safe, non-flammable, and environmentally friendly
solvent with low global warming potential (GWP)(<2.5) does not contain any fluorinated greenhouse gases (as listed in Annex 1 of the EU regulations 517/2014), which are all highly desirable in industrial cleaning applications like vapor degreasing.
Comparing 3M Novec Product Range and Potential Switches
To better understand the options available, here’s a comparison table outlining 3M Novec products and how they align and compare with Opteon™ Range of Products:
3M Novec alternative replacements
We will assist you in considering alternates that could improve outcomes, whether cleaning or environmental. And how we can support your transition and enhance your cleaning processes.
Opteon™ SF80 Overview:
Opteon™ SF80 is a highly effective, extremely environmentally friendly cleaning fluid suitable for various industrial applications, offering significant advantages over traditional solvents in terms of performance, safety, and environmental impact.
Could SF80 support current 3M Novec users seeking an alternative cleaning chemistry?
Absolutely. Fraser Technologies has already helped many former 3M Novec customers successfully transition to alternative solutions tailored to their specific cleaning needs. Among these, SF80 has consistently emerged as the standout product of choice.
Whether you're looking for a direct drop-in replacement or aiming to improve cleaning performance overall, Fraser Technologies is here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
You can also explore our sector-specific 3M transition case studies on our website.
https://www.frasertech.co.uk
NO PRICE INCREASES FOR 2025
BENEFITS OF TEMPERATURE PROFILING – THE VALUE SPEAKS FOR ITSELF
The use of ‘thru-process’ temperature profiling in the architectural powder coating market has long been established as the preferred default method for proving quality assurance of the powder cure process. For a powder coated product, it is critical to prove that the part has been heated correctly in the oven to achieve the desired physical and cosmetic properties of the coating. At the coating stage, significant investment into the product has already been made, so it is even more critical to get the coating process correct, to avoid rework or at worst product scrappage. Getting the cure wrong is a costly mistake to make and the implications from a business perspective are often far more severe than many realise. With demanding product warranty challenges finding product failure in the field is catastrophic.
Obviously coating cure can be determined by many different laboratory tests (DSC, Solvent Rub, Impact etc) but these physical tests only provide a positive or negative result and will not give any evidence to the potential cause of the problem. The part may be incorrectly cured but why? Was the oven set at the wrong temperature or line speed? Has a burner or fan failed, if so which and where?
PhoenixTM Finishing system ... customised to coating process
The PhoenixTM Finishing system has been developed to specifically provide the complete product temperature history of the product in the powder cure oven. The system travels directly through the oven with the product being monitored measuring product and or oven
environmental temperature from start to finish. Temperature data collected is later converted into a temperature time graph (Temperature profile). This profile graph will not only provide evidence of whether the coating is cured correctly, as part of a standard QA protocol, but will also provide invaluable process data that can be used to further control, improve and validate the operation.
PhoenixTM Data Logger ... robust choice
At the heart of PhoenixTM finishing system is the temperature data logger designed for specific use in a hostile industrial process. A range of loggers are available to suit the needs of both the coating application and the budget. For standard powder coating applications, the Compact system gives an easy to use 6 channel system. As its name suggests the system is designed to be easy to handle, and ideal for any travelling powder/paint rep needing a system to visit customers with as part of process set-up, validation and troubleshooting actions.
Thermal Protection ... fit for purpose in the Powder Cure oven
Protecting the logger as it travels through the cure oven, a thermal barrier maintains the logger temperature < 80 °C to guarantee measurement accuracy and prevent thermal damage. Offering a dual protection approach the barriers provide high levels of protection without becoming too large or heavy (Aluminium case) for efficient handling and transportation. Combining high performance microporous insulation and phase change heat sink, logger protection is maximised even in the event of line stoppages.
Automated Water & Effluent Ltd
Get in touch for a quote today!
Automated Water & Effluent Ltd have been supplying process control equipment to the metal finishing and surface finishing industry.
We have an in-house team of qualified engineers able to design and build control panels and process equipment specifically to fit your requirements.
A wide range of our control instrumentation, dosing pumps and chemical process equipment is available on short delivery.
•Speci cally designed for process air heating applications in convection ovens and dryers
•High turndown/short ame lengths providing accurate process temperature control
•High ef ciency gas + air modulation, gas only modulation and simple high/low control options
•Heat Input Range: 9 kW – 1550 kW
TX Series Gas Fired Process Tank Heating Systems
•High ef ciency (80%+) heating of all types of spray and dip process tanks
•Compact high ef ciency small diameter immersion tube heat exchangers occupying minimum tank space
•Accurate performance modelling using Lanemark TxCalc design software
•Heat Input Range: 15 kW (1½") – 1150 kW (8")
Midco HMA Series Air Replacement or “Make-Up” Air Heating Burners
•Direct red, high ef ciency burner systems, for high volume air heating applications such as paint spray booths, ovens and dryers.
•Supplied either as Midco burner heads for OEM system integration or as Lanemark DB or FDB complete packaged systems including modulating gas valve trains and controls
•Wide range of ring rates to suit alternative temperature rise and air velocity system requirements
•DbCalc system design software
FD-C
Midco HMA high efficiency, high turndown,
Thermocouples ... designed to suit all your process/product challenges
Although often overlooked by many probably the most important aspects of the temperature profiling task is making sure you are measuring what you want accurately and repeatably run to run. Provided with a triple wrapped PTFE cable the thermocouples are flexible yet capable of withstanding temperatures up to 265 °C. Complying to ANSI-96.1 the thermocouple accuracy is certified to +/-0.4% or +/- 1.1 °C providing a measurement accuracy (Data Logger + thermocouple) of the system in most paint applications of +/-1.4 °C, over the entire data logger operating range (<80 °C).
With the rigors of daily operation, it is possible for the PTFE cable to occasionally get damaged. Under normal circumstances this would require a complete thermocouple replacement. To minimise cost the PhoenixTM probes come with the unique design feature thatonly the cable and sensor need to be
replaced retaining the existing magnet mount or clamp. Over the life of the system this can significantly reduce the total cost of ownership.
Analysis Software ... the power of process understanding, optimisation and validation
A critical component of the PhoenixTM Finishing system is the Thermal View Finishing software. Designed specifically for the needs of the coating market it allows not only the set-up/download of logger but the raw process data to be converted into meaningful information. Such information can be used to understand exactly how the process is operating, allow informed changes and provide certified evidence to prove to others the quality you are providing.
For more information Contact: Dr Steve Offley
Product Marketing Manager
Phoenix Temperature Measurement
Telephone: +44 1353 223100
Email: Steve.Offley@phoenixtm.com
Visit: www.phoenixtm.com
PHOS-PREP
mistries
Pre-Treatment Solutions Group Ltd supply unique chemistries for an array of metal processes.
Our Phos-Prep® range of chemicals are chrome free, eco-friendly and cost effective all while maintaining quality and performance.
With over 50 years experience within the industry we pride ourselves on finding the right solution for your metal treatment. Whether that be degreasing, etching, phosphating, paint stripping and more!
TESTIMONIALS
“We have been a customer of PTS for over 20 years and during our time we have relocated our business, changed our pretreatment process with the full support and expert advice to implement changes from the PTS team. A great company who always go the extra mile to support their customers.”
P.Allen, West Midlands.
“We have been fortunate to have partnered with PTS for over ten years now. They are consummate professionals and always exceed expectations in terms of delivery of service, knowledge and customer care.”
E.Smith, Hampshire.
, ten a
“We have had the great pleasure in working with PTS for over 5 years. No matter how big or small our queries are, PTS always come up trumps and in rapid time. The team are always willing to visit our site to help out with any issues we have or just for a general catch up with our staff. We have a very good relationship with the whole team at PTS and long may this continue.”
R.Glasbey, West Yorkshire.
HOW TOLERANT ARE YOU?!
Optimise your processes & reduce costs with inline measurement for electroplating reel-to-reel applications
Keeping the tolerance limits for layer thicknesses
Electroplating reel-to-reel production lines need to maintain minimum and maximum tolerance limits for the applied coatings.
To save costs, layers are coated as thin as possible - especially when using precious materials.
However, a certain margin between the minimum limit and the nominal applied layer thickness is necessary to ensure the adherence of the lower tolerance limit due to process variations.
Efficient Coating Processes
Usually, strips at the beginning and at the end of a reel are cut out manually and measured offline.
This is time consuming for the staff and the reaction time is too long: If a tolerance limit is violated, it is too late to interfere since the coating process is finished and the reel already left the production line.
The X-ray fluorescence method (XRF)
Inline measurement equipment – based on the x-ray fluorescence (XRF) principle – provides continuous data about the applied coating thickness and allows immediate production process control.
Feedback loops can be set up either with automatic communication between XRF instrument and coating line or manually by the operator.
Therefore, the nominal applied thickness can be chosen to be closer to the minimum tolerance limit which significantly saves costs.
Obviously, this is most effective for valuable metals, but it also adds up for other coating materials. Additionally, products with rather tight tolerance limits can be manufactured only if there is a measurement system in the production line to determine the actual applied coating.
Saving Cost and Time with the Right Measurement Technology
The following example where a gold (Au) coating of 2 – 4 µm needed to be applied shows the cost saving effects of such inline process control: Using offline instruments for quality
control the nominal coating thickness was set to 2.8 µm Au to ensure not to violate the tolerance limit. After installing the inline measurement system FISCHERSCOPE® X-RAY 4000, the nominal coating thickness could be lowered to 2.3 µm Au.
Just by saving the 0.5 µm gold coating, the investment was amortized within half a year! Additionally, the production is now 100% documented. Every customer buying an electroplated reel gets a protocol with a statistical summary and a profile ensuring that the whole strip is coated properly within defined tolerance limits.
The Optimum Measurement Device for Production-Lines
Using the FISCHERSCOPE® X-RAY 4000 production cost can be lowered significantly by reducing material consumption, especially effective for precious materials, and by eliminating scrap production. Additionally, 100% of the applied coatings on the product are recorded and therefore traceable to comply with ISO9000 standards. For further information, your local FISCHER partner will be glad to assist you.
For more information, please contact your local FISCHER representative: Telephone: +44 (0)1386 577370 Or visit: www.helmut-fischer.com
New and used vibratory finishing machines and systems from 2 litres to 4000 litres
Finishing media; Ceramic, Plastic, Wood, Steel and Maizorb
Liquid / powdered / paste compounds
Abrasive finishing wheels
Vibratory separators / sieving machines and re-meshing service
Repairs and relines
Effluent water treatment systems
Redundant machines purchased
Consultancy
Subcontracted finishing and industrial sieving services
SHARMIC FOR FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE
Experienced Engineers After sales technical support Nationwide deliveries
Sharmic Engineering Ltd
Tel: +44 (0)1299 822135 / 878123/4/5
Email: info@sharmic.co.uk www.sharmic.co.uk
MICHAEL SMITH ENGINEERS
LTD LAUNCHES TWO NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE PUMP RANGES FROM FINISH THOMPSON INC.
Michael Smith Engineers Ltd, the UK’s leading pump specialist, is pleased to announce the addition of two cutting-edge pump ranges from Finish Thompson Inc. (FTI), a global leader in the corrosive chemical transfer industry.
The new UCR and UCP series— additions to FTI’s renowned ULTRAChem® line—are ANSIdimensional, magnetically driven lined-centrifugal pumps designed to deliver exceptional reliability and durability in the most demanding chemical transfer applications.
The UCR series is engineered for maximum corrosion resistance, making it ideal for extreme chemical processing environments. With a pure ETFE housing lining, barrier liner, and over-moulded magnets, the UCR pump is specifically designed to withstand harsh chemicals. It is perfectly suited for applications such as plating, mining, chemical and metal manufacturing, and fume scrubbing.
The UCP series offers a cost-effective alternative while still delivering impressive chemical resistance and hydraulic performance. Constructed from a combination of polypropylene and ETFE, the UCP provides a budget-friendly solution without compromising on the ULTRAChem line’s hallmark durability and efficiency.
“We are delighted to bring the UCR and UCP series to the UK market,” said Jason
Downing, Sales Director at Michael Smith Engineers Ltd. “Our customers in the chemical industry already rely on the ULTRAChem range for its outstanding performance. These new additions offer even greater flexibility, reliability, and value—meeting the diverse and demanding needs of corrosive liquid transfer.”
With decades of experience handling challenging liquids—from acids and solvents to slurries and flammable compounds—Michael Smith Engineers is trusted by industries across the UK for reliable and expert pump solutions.
For more information about the new UCR and UCP series, and to explore our full product portfolio, visit: www.michael-smith-engineers.co.uk
Ultrasonic Cleaning Technology: Ensures thorough cleaning of intricate components Solvent Vapour Degreasing: Efficiently removes contaminants without residue Remote Distillation Unit: Enhances solvent recovery and reduces waste
Available After November 2025, giving you time to plan its purchase and removal. Come forward NOW to express your interest in this machine.
To go to our brochure, follow this link: https://bit.ly/4kSZW1O
���� Call: Phil Stokes +44(0)7885 436021 for any further information you may require ✉ Email: phil@assetdisposalservices.co.uk ���� Visit: www.assetdisposalservices.co.uk
Act Fast - Quality Equipment Like This Doesn’t Stay Available For Long!
PUT QUALITY ON REPEAT
Let‘s talk about powder coating. A technology that is proven since decades and actually, it‘s just getting started with FLOWSENSE. FLOWSENSE? It‘s a software masterpiece and a bunch of small sensors that do big things: Consistent powder output from the first to the last workpiece. Reliability, measured in real time. Put quality on repeat!
