Surface World May 2026 by Hill Media Limited

High pressure

The Cobra 40-10 & Cobra 40-25

High-pressure double diaphragm pump:

• Practically pulsation-free for high surface quality

• Very low detergent consumption

• Applications up to 250 bar and 5 l/min

• For aggressive, abrasive or shear-sensitive materials

MANAGING DIRECTOR & ADVERTISEMENT DIRECTOR

Nigel Bean

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CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION DEPARTMENT

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EXHIBITION ORGANISATION

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The Surface World magazine is published 12 times a year by Hill Media Ltd. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Surface World, Hill Media Ltd and its agents accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. Copyright in all material published in Surface World, including but not limited to all Hill Media brands, brand logos, trademarks, and associated assets, remains with Hill Media Ltd and its agents.

INSTITUTE OF MATERIALS FINISHING INDUSTRY RECOGNISED TRAINING COURSES FROM THE IMF. 8

INDUSTRY NEWS

AVX PRO, THE NEW AIRMIX® STANDARD FOR INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION LINES. 10

AKZONOBEL LAUNCHES MY INTERPON PORTAL IN MEXICO, ALONGSIDE NEW READY-TO-SHIP INTERPON RANGE. 14 COST-EFFECTIVE SURFACE FINISHING OF ACETABULAR CUPS IN A ROTARY VIBRATOR - DIGITALLY CONTROLLED AND HIGHLY PRECISE. 14 66% AGREE THE RIGHT FINISH CAN TRANSFORM POLARISING CAR DESIGNS, SHERWIN-WILLIAMS RESEARCH FINDS. 20 DÜRR BRINGS A NEW GENERATION OF PAINTING ROBOTS TO THE MARKET. 22

HMG PAINTS CONTINUES COMMITMENT TO CHARITY AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT. 26

TESTING & MEASUREMENT

ZIRCONIA-FACED PROBES: A TOUGHER STANDARD FOR COATING INSPECTION BY DEFELSKO. 30 LIGHTS, CAMERA, CURE! 32 ELCOMETER INTRODUCE THE 215 OVEN TEMPERATURE PROFILING SYSTEM—PROTECTING YOUR COATINGS, YOUR COMPLIANCE, AND YOUR REPUTATION. 38

AKZONOBEL’S NEW DRONE INSPECTION TOOL LIFTS AIRCRAFT PAINT MAINTENANCE TO NEXT LEVEL. 42 STOP PAYING FOR PROBLEMS YOU COULD HAVE PREVENTED. 44

MEASURING THE INVISIBLE: WHY CHROMATE CONVERSION COATINGS STILL MATTER. 48 TURN UP THE HEAT ON

Coatings Inspection Equipment

It’s not just the Elcometer 456 Coating Thickness Gauge that’s fast...

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WHAT ARE YOU MEASURING?

Fischer Instrumentation

Measuring Made Easy since 1953

Fischer Instrumentation

Measuring Made Easy since 1953

Is your process in control?

Helping you with quality and inspection testing

A member of the Helmut Fischer Group, with our manufacturing base in Germany, we offer easy-to-use, specialist instruments to help you more accurately and reliably measure:

∙ Coating Thickness (Dry Film Thickness)

∙ Material Analysis (Composition)

∙ Material Performance (Hardness and Scratch Test Measurements)

∙ Electrical Conductivity

∙ Material Performance (Hardness and Scratch Test Measurements)

∙ Ferrite Content

∙ Electrical Conductivity

∙ Ferrite Content

∙

∙ Surface Profile

∙ Dew Point

∙ Surface Profile

∙ Dew Point

∙ Calibration Foils and Standards for QUALICOAT, QUALINOD, ASTM, BS, NADCAP, DIN, and ISO 17025 accreditation

Our range includes Hand-Held Gauges and Probes, Bench Top X-Ray (Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence) & Nano Indentation Instruments, and Inline Automation Measurement Solutions.

Ask us about our finance options!

Our range includes Hand-Held Gauges and Probes, Bench Top X-Ray (Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence) & Nano Indentation Instruments, and Inline Automation Measurement Solutions.

Ask us about our finance options!

We support customers in the following sectors:

∙ Aerospace & Aeronautics

∙ Automotive

∙ Chemicals, Petro-chemicals & Mining

∙ Construction & Infrastructure

∙ Engineering

∙ Electronics, PCB & Semi-Conductors

∙ Engineering

∙ Electronics, PCB & Semi-Conductors

∙ Electroplaters

∙ Electronics, PCB & Semi-Conductors

∙ Electroplaters

∙ Fasteners

∙ Electroplaters

∙ Fasteners

∙ Food & Beverage

∙ Galvanising & Anodising

∙ Food & Beverage

∙ Galvanising & Anodising

∙ Gold, Watches, Jewellery & Precious Metals

∙ Marine & Transportation

∙ Gold, Watches, Jewellery & Precious Metals

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∙ Oil & Gas and Solar Power Generation

∙ Powder Coaters

∙ Paints & Varnishes

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∙ Powder Coaters

∙ Powder Coaters Recycling

∙ Recycling

With a newly equipped facility in the Midlands, Fischer offers:

∙ Accessories, Calibration Foils and Standards

∙ Fully Equipped Service Centre & Parts

∙ Instrument Repair and Maintenance

∙ Fully Equipped Service Centre & Parts

∙ Instrument Repair and Maintenance

∙ Preventative Maintenance Service Agreements

∙ Process Control and Optimisation

∙ Preventative Maintenance Service Agreements

∙ Process Control and Optimisation

∙ Product Demonstration Centre

∙ Sales Support

∙ Product Demonstration Centre

∙ Sales Support

∙ Sample Testing

∙ UK-based Telephone Support

∙ Sample Testing

∙ UK-based Telephone Support

Available training, webinars and white papers:

∙ Fundamentals of ED-XRF and Electroplating Challenges

∙ Coatings and how to measure them?

∙ What is XRF?

∙ Coatings and how to measure them?

∙ What is XRF?

∙ Calibration and operation of XRF

∙ Ultimate guide to Measuring Coating Thickness

∙ Tactile Coating Thickness Measurements

∙ Hands-on practical workshops

∙ Tactile Coating Thickness Measurements

∙ Hands-on practical workshops

Testing, measurement, inspection, standards and conformity assessment, provide tools to deliver supply chain confidence and can be used to support semi-finished goods with certified and traceable data.

You can find us in:

With a strong commitment to service and quality, we pride ourselves in delivering innovative solutions and making measuring easy!

www.fischerinstrumentation.co.uk

Tel. +44 (0) 1386 577370

Email: mail@fischergb.co.uk

www.helmut-fischer.com

Email: mail@fischergb.co.uk

www.helmut-fischer.com

Global Sales, Application and Service

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.

Airmix®

standard for

industrial production lines

AVX PRO, THE NEW AIRMIX® STANDARD FOR INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION LINES

AVX Pro, the new Airmix® standard for industrial production

range of automatic spray guns with the AVX evolution of the AVX. More compact, lighter, and demands of industrial painting lines, this new needs of the wood, general industry, and Construction & Earthmoving).

Airmix® heritage

Sames is further enhancing its range of automatic spray guns with the AVX Pro, developed as a direct evolution of the AVX. More compact, lighter, and optimized to meet the current demands of industrial painting lines, this new Airmix® spray gun addresses the needs of the wood, general industry, and ACE applications (Agriculture, Construction & Earthmoving).

An evolution driven by the Airmix® heritage

field feedback and the historical expertise of Airmix® technology since 1975, the AVX Pro in atomization and air flow management. operation at reduced air pressure, lowering air consistent finish quality. These enhancements significantly increase transfer service life, without compromising production rates.

An evolution driven by the Airmix® heritage

Developed based on extensive ﬁeld feedback and the historical expertise of Sames Kremlin, inventor of Airmix® technology since 1975, the AVX Pro integrates targeted improvements in atomization and air ﬂow management.

Optimized repeatability and maintenance for industrial environments

Finer atomization enables operation at reduced air pressure, lowering air consumption while maintaining a consistent ﬁnish quality. These enhancements efficiency and extend equipment service life, without compromising production

maintenance for industrial environments

Developed based on extensive field feedback and the historical expertise of Sames Kremlin, inventor of Airmix® technology since 1975, the AVX Pro integrates targeted improvements in atomization and air flow management. Finer atomization enables operation at reduced air pressure, lowering air consumption while maintaining a consistent finish quality. These enhancements significantly increase transfer efficiency and extend equipment service life, without compromising production rates.

The AVX Pro stands out with a patented air cap indexing system, ensuring precise and repeatable repositioning after each intervention. This innovation reduces the risk of human error, improves process repeatability, and increases system productivity by minimizing line downtime related to cleaning and maintenance operations.

The gun’s design has been engineered to simplify maintenance, with a reduced number of parts and fast, intuitive replacement— even in demanding industrial environments.

Optimized repeatability and maintenance for industrial environments

Full compatibility with existing installations

patented air cap indexing system, ensuring precise and repeatable repositioning after each intervention. This innovation reduces the risk of human error, improves process repeatability, and increases system productivity by minimizing line downtime related to cleaning and maintenance operations.

The AVX Pro stands out with a patented air cap indexing system, ensuring after each intervention. This error, improves process productivity by minimizing maintenance operations.

Designed for immediate integration, the AVX Pro retains the core fundamentals of the previous generation: identical TCP, compatibility with existing Airmix® nozzles, and easy base interchangeability. This backward compatibility allows users to upgrade their installations without major modifications, while protecting existing investments.

The gun’s design has been engineered to simplify maintenance, with a reduced number of parts and fast, intuitive replacement— even in demanding industrial environments.

A compact design serving productivity

Full compatibility with existing installations

The gun’s design has been with a reduced number of even in demanding industrial

With a weight reduction of approximately 30% compared to the AVX, the AVX Pro reduces mechanical stress on equipment and simplifies integration on multi-gun lines. This compactness helps improve line availability and process stability, particularly at high production speeds.

Designed for immediate integration, the AVX Pro retains the core fundamentals of the previous generation: identical TCP,

Airmix® nozzles, and easy base interchangeability. This backward compatibility allows installations without major modiﬁcations, while protecting existing investments.

Full compatibility with Designed for immediate integration, fundamentals of the previous compatibility with existing Airmix® nozzles, and easy base interchangeability.

users to upgrade their installations without major modiﬁcations, while protecting

Automatic Airmix® spray gun

THE BEST AUTOMATIC AIRMIX® SPRAY GUN FOR THE MOST DEMANDING JOBS IN FINISHING AND PRODUCTIVITY

Innovative patented aircap with automatic orientation feature

Quick-disconnect design reduces maintenance time

Outstanding reliability & finishing quality

production speeds. from the

A responsible approach integrated from the design stage

The AVX Pro is fully aligned with Sames’ CSR approach, featuring a design focused on reducing paint, air, and solvent consumption, limiting waste, and promoting component repairability. Packaging has also been optimized, supporting industrial performance while controlling environmental impact.

AVX Pro: the new Airmix® standard

stage Sames’ CSR approach, reducing paint, air, and waste, and promoting has also been performance while automatic spraying productivity, reduce line ﬁnishing quality—while installations.

With the AVX Pro, Sames delivers an automatic spraying solution designed to improve productivity, reduce line downtime, and ensure consistent finishing quality—while seamlessly integrating into existing installations.

www.sames.com

Distributor

AKZONOBEL LAUNCHES MY INTERPON PORTAL IN MEXICO, ALONGSIDE NEW READY-TO-SHIP INTERPON RANGE

demand, reduce downtime and streamline procurement.

AkzoNobel Powder Coatings has launched My Interpon Portal (MIP) in Mexico, introducing a digital platform that gives customers fast, direct access to products, information and ordering—now combined with a dedicated Interpon Ready-to-Ship (RTS) range for the Mexican market.

The launch responds to increasing demand for speed, simplicity and reliability by integrating 24/7 digital ordering with immediate product availability.

My Interpon Portal goes beyond a traditional webshop. It serves as a central digital hub where customers can search and compare Interpon powder coatings, access technical data sheets, and visualize finishes using a 3D color tool. The platform also simplifies day-to-day operations, with features for ordering, reordering, tracking deliveries, and managing invoices in one place.

Supporting this is the new Interpon RTS range in Mexico: a focused range of 54 high-demand products, available from stock for delivery within two to three business days. The range covers key technologies—including polyesters, superdurable systems, hybrids, primers and functional coatings—used across general industrial and architectural applications.

It also includes advanced solutions such as Interpon Redox corrosion protection and low-energy cure systems, alongside coatings designed for exterior durability.

All Interpon powder coatings are free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and generate minimal waste, helping customers reduce environmental impact.

By combining digital access with ready-to-ship availability, AkzoNobel enables customers to respond faster to

“Customers are increasingly looking for speed, simplicity and reliability in how they order powder coatings,” says Baron Schreuder, Regional Commercial Director, AkzoNobel Powder Coatings, North America. “With My Interpon Portal and our ready-to-ship range now available in Mexico, we’re giving them greater visibility, control and immediate access to the products they need.”

To learn more about My Interpon Portal, visit: https://shop.interpon.com/mx/en/

Solutions for recycling SOLVENTS

Specialist in the Supply of Anodising & Metal Finishing Technologies

QUALICOAT Approved Chrome & Phosphate Free Technologies Low-Temperature Degreasing & Sealing Solutions

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

COST-EFFECTIVE SURFACE

FINISHING OF ACETABULAR CUPS IN A ROTARY VIBRATOR - DIGITALLY CONTROLLED AND HIGHLY PRECISE

Most suppliers still prefer CNC-based technologies for grinding and polishing the internal surface areas of acetabular cups. However, a mass finishing process in a rotary vibrator, in combination with a specially developed clamping device, now represents a substantially more cost-efficient solution. The process is not only less costly, but it produces the required surface roughness values easily and consistently. Rösler

Oberflächentechnik developed a 2-stage process that allows the simultaneous finishing of up to 35 cups. This became possible with a specially engineered work piece fixture.

Acetabular cups for „dual mobility“ use are generally made from cobalt chrome or titanium. They are produced with a milling process followed by a fine grinding or fine turning operation for smoothing their initial surface roughness. After this machining operation the Ra value of the raw components usually amounts to between 1.0 and 0.6 µm. However, before the cups can be implanted into the body, their surface must be significantly smoother. The maximum surface roughness readings cannot exceed Ra values of 0.05 µm. This ensures optimal functionality of the acetabular cup, sufficient coverage with lubricants produced by the body and prevents unwanted friction between the PE insert and the metal cup.

The challenge – grinding of internal surface areas

For this finishing task the special challenge is not the achievement of the required surface roughness values but the critical position of the surface area to be treated on the inside of a half-sphere. This represents a so-called “cup shape” that normally prevents the processing

media to exert any significant pressure. If the work pieces were to freely tumble in the processing bowl of the rotary vibrator, the internal space of the work pieces would be filled with media. But effective grinding would only take place on the external surface. There would be insufficient “rubbing” between the media and the work pieces on the internal surface areas.

In this particular case Rösler was able to utilize its decades long experience in surface treatment, especially its profound knowledge of mass finishing and its in-house engineering and manufacturing capabilities. „The acetabular cups are finished in a rotary vibrator without inner dome. These

machines were initially developed for the aerospace industry, where high-value, complex components must be finished gently with, at the same time, high metal removal rates. Compared to traditional rotary vibrators the processing bowl does not contain a vibratory motor in the inner dome but two motors on the outside of the bowl. This provides space in the bowl center for a clamping device with a unique inlay, in which the acetabular cups can be fixtured,“ explains Michael Striebe, Global Sales and Process Expert at Rösler. Clamping the work pieces allows the processing media to exert ample pressure on the inner work piece surface to make the grinding and polishing process highly effective. For the finishing process a plastic grinding media, specially developed for medical technology applications, and a dry polishing media are utilized. With the extremely fine structure of the grinding media very low surface roughness values of under Ra = 0.05 µm are achieved

Acetabular cups before and after ﬁne grinding and polishing: Surface roughness values of Ra =/< 0.05 µm are consistently achieved without jeopardizing any dimensional tolerances.

Up to 35 acetabular cups are mounted to a special work piece fixture. The raw work pieces are embedded in a suitable inlay available in different sizes.

during the pre-grinding operation. The highly homogeneous and fine structure of the grinding media creates the perfect surface prior to the final polishing step. This reduces the surface roughness values further to a value 0.02 µm or lower.

The cycle times depend on the base material the acetabular cups are made of and the initial condition of the raw work pieces.

Mass finishing – a more cost-efficient alternative to robotic surface finishing

Robotic surface grinding and polishing of acetabular cups may be fast, but programming of the robot movements, process controls and wear compensation for the grinding and polishing tools for every single work piece type make it very expensive. With robotic polishing operations only one single work piece can be picked up and clamped. And each work piece size requires its own, exactly defined robotic program. Moreover, users must cope with considerable wear of the equipment, such as polishing tools, brushes or other special tools. Due to the wear of the tools the metal removal rate constantly changes. This must be considered when planning a robotic finishing process. Because it always makes the same movements, the robot itself cannot offset these wear rates. The same is true if the final polishing step is done manually. Manual polishing is also fast but prohibitively expensive. Fluctuating finishing qualities pose

another risk with manual finishing because the operator cannot always maintain the same operating parameters. And finally, it is becoming extremely difficult to find experienced people for such grinding and polishing operations.

In contrast, all that is needed for a mass finishing operation in a center-less rotary vibrator, once the work pieces are clamped in the processing bowl, is the setting of the processing time. The rest is handled by the machine! The process requires no operator nor any additional automation tools. Only suitable grinding and polishing media, water and electrical power are used. Of particular importance is the fact that the wear of the grinding media does not affect the finishing results whatsoever. The only requirement is that the media level in the machine must be kept constant.

„All this results in a more consistent, repeatable and overall higher finishing quality with a more homogeneous structure,“ explains Michael Striebe, who, for the last 10 years, has been supporting customers from the medical engineering field in his role as Global Sales and Process Expert at Rösler: „My experience clearly indicates that the surface finishes generated with mass finishing have a fine structurer and a higher quality. We consistently achieve surface

roughness readings that are lower than the specified values. Depending on the initial surface roughness of the raw work pieces, surface readings of Ra = 0.01µm are possible – without jeopardizing the dimensional tolerances for the work pieces. This extraordinary quality proves the efficiency and effectiveness of the mass finishing technology.“

Digitization allows effective process control and improves operational efﬁciency

Surface finishing operations for medical components, especially for orthopedic implants, demand not only high costefficiency as well compliance with the specified surface roughness values and the dimensional tolerances for the work pieces. Besides achieving absolutely consistent, high-quality finishing results, the entire process must be completely replicable in its design, its stability and its repeatability. And it must be completely documented. Comprehensive work piece and process monitoring is an essential pre-condition for manufacturing processes that are subject to validation and audits.

All these demands can be met with the latest version of the Rösler digitization software Smart Solutions Comfort (RSS). The digital software automatically monitors the process water quality,

Center-less rotary vibrator with motors mounted on the outside of the processing bowl. In combination with a special work piece fixture this allows the perfect finishing of the cup-shaped internal geometry of acetabular cups.

automatically takes water samples within defined time intervals, documents the measured values and corrects deviations from preset values by targeted dosing of chemical additives. This ensures stable process water quality. Furthermore, it significantly supports process repeatability and, thus, guarantees consistently high finishing qualities on the processed work pieces. Whenever the system identifies additional required actions, it informs the operator and issues precise, documentable action proposals. Any adjustments to the process are also documented and are completely traceable.

A solution for the future – tailored to medical components

With the development of this efficient grinding and polishing process in a center-less rotary vibrator Rösler offers an economic alternative to robotic and traditional manual finishing operations.

The high manpower costs required for manual polishing can be reduced by 70 - 80%, because the only remaining manual operation is placing the work pieces in the rotary vibrator. Excellent surface qualities, absolutely repeatable results and the option for digital process monitoring and control with Rösler Smart Solutions software (RSS) qualify this process as an excellent solution for the precise surface finishing of acetabular cups. „When we developed the new process, we carefully studied the “pain points” of the systems available in the market and adapted our solution accordingly,“ explains Michael Striebe. „This was only possible by combining our competence in equipment manufacturing, process development and media & compound production, all done in-house! The future of acetabular cup finishing is in the center-less rotary vibrator.”

For over 90 years, the privately owned Rösler Oberflächentechnik GmbH has been actively engaged in the field of

surface preparation and surface finishing. As global market leader, we offer a comprehensive portfolio of equipment, consumables and services around the mass finishing and shot blasting technologies for a wide spectrum of different industries. Our range of about 15,000 consumables, developed in our Customer Experience Centers and laboratories located all over the world, specifically serves our customers for resolving their individual finishing needs. Under the brand name AM Solutions, we offer numerous equipment solutions and services in the area of additive manufacturing/3D printing. Last-but-notleast, as our central training center the Rösler Academy offers practical, handson seminars to the subjects mass finishing, shot blasting and additive manufacturing. The Rösler group has a global network of 15 locations and approx. 150 sales agents.

For more information, please go to: https://facts.rosler.com/medical

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Complete solutions for measuring powder coating before and after cure are available

66% AGREE THE RIGHT FINISH CAN TRANSFORM POLARISING CAR DESIGNS, SHERWIN-WILLIAMS RESEARCH FINDS

New research from SherwinWilliams Automotive Finishes reveals that expert refinishing can significantly influence how even the most unconventional vehicles are viewed.

Conducted in January 2026 among automotive professionals across the U.K. and Europe, the survey examined how design choices shape first impressions and where finish and craftsmanship can make the greatest difference to overall appeal.

A part of the Company’s “There’s Beauty in Every Finish” campaign, which celebrates the skill and expertise of refinishing professionals, the study reflects a growing industry focus on recognising the role of colour, surface quality and technical precision in bringing out the best in every vehicle.

“These insights reflect what refinishers see every day,” says Martin Rautenberg, Technical Manager EMEAI, SherwinWilliams Automotive Finishes. “While design sets the foundation, it’s the finish that ultimately shapes perception. With the right refinishing systems and skills, even the most debated vehicles can be transformed into something people see in a completely new light.”

According to the findings, 66% of respondents agreed that even a polarising

car design can be transformed with the right finish or styling, reinforcing the idea that craftsmanship, colour and surface quality remain critical in redefining a vehicle’s visual impact. At a time when distinctive and unconventional designs are sparking stronger reactions across the industry, the insight highlights why understanding these perceptions matters and underscores the commitment of Sherwin-Williams to helping refinishers unlock the potential beauty in every vehicle, regardless of its starting point.

frequently selected “Most Unconventional Car,” with 39% of respondents choosing it; the Reliant Robin was a close second at 38%

• Eighty-three percent in Italy vs 50% in Germany see finish as transformative

The research also highlights where design frustrations most commonly lie and where refinishing professionals can have the greatest impact. When asked which aspect of a car’s design bothers them most, 73% of respondents pointed to shape or body style, far outweighing other elements and reinforcing the role of expert refinishing in enhancing overall vehicle appeal. Other key findings include:

• Lights (28%) top the list of features people would change

• The Fiat Multipla was the most

Together, these insights underline the opportunity for refinishing professionals to shape how vehicles are seen, using specific enhancements, precise colour application and high-quality finishes to elevate even the most debated designs.

Watch the “There’s Beauty in Every Finish” campaign video to see how expert refinishing can redefine vehicle perception in practice: https://industrial. sherwin-williams.com/emeai/gb/en/ automotive/ media-center/ news/theresbeauty-in-everyfinish.html or simply scan the QR Code:

WE’RE OBSESSED WITH COLOR

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT OF CUSTOMIZED INDUSTRIAL COATINGS

brands of The Sherwin-Williams Company A complete range of industrial coatings Waterborne | Powder | Solventborne | High solid | E-coat

PUMPS & FILTERS

SIEBEC UK Ltd, Stafford +44 (0) 1785 227700 sales@siebec.co.uk www.siebec.co.uk

The Sherwin-Williams Company, Goodlass Road, Speke, Liverpool, L24 9HJ, United Kingdom | T: +44 (0)151 486 0486 | e-mail: liverpool.sales@sherwin.com SPECIAL SYSTEMS

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

FILTER MEDIA

ACIDPURE | Acid recycling

EASYPURE | Fluid recycling

IONPURE | Ionic filtration

ACIDVAC | Acid draining vacuum EDUCTORS | Bath agitation [...]

DÜRR BRINGS A NEW GENERATION OF PAINTING ROBOTS TO THE MARKET

EcoRP4 with optimised arm geometry for all painting tasks

With the EcoRP4, Dürr is introducing a new generation of robots used to paint car bodies. The compact painting robot features an asymmetric architecture that improves access to the body for the applicator, enabling it to reliably reach even hard-toaccess interior areas. Its reduced number of components also lowers maintenance requirements and operational costs, especially benefiting car manufacturers with high production volumes.

Since 1998, Dürr has shipped almost 20,000 painting robots from the Ecopaint robotic family worldwide. The latest addition to the family, the EcoRP4, has been developed as the successor to the six-axis EcoRP E/L x33iC robot, and is specifically designed for painting lines that handle high volumes and standardised applications. Different designs enable flexible integration into the paint shop, from floor mounting to tower installation as well as use on so-called linear rails.

“This fourth generation of robots is designed through and through for economy. Fewer components, a simplified mechanical system, and an easy-to-maintain design reduce the lifecycle costs when compared with previous generations, without affecting the process technology,” says Andreas Bokermann, product manager at Dürr.

Asymmetry moves the applicator closer to the interior

A central design feature of the EcoRP4 is the asymmetrical architecture of the robot arms. The tool center point (TCP), also known as the center point of the applicator, is offset laterally from the main axis by more than 200 millimeters. This increases the distance between the potential interference contour of the robot arm and the body. As a result, the applicator can reach even hard-to-

access areas such as door rebates, hinges, and transition zones much more easily. To support use on both sides of the body, Dürr offers the new robot in mirrored versions.

Slim design, high efﬁciency

In addition to the asymmetric arm geometry, arm 1 of the EcoRP4 is more compact. The slim design reduces the amount of space needed in the working area and increases clearance near the body.

Dürr’s new EcoRP4 robot impresses with fewer components, a simpliﬁed mechanical system, and an easy-to-maintain design.

Talk

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Dedicated UK Based Installation & Support Teams

Comprehensive training and support Service & Maintenance Plans Available

Arm 2 still carries the applicator, colour changer, and metering pumps in close proximity to the paint outlet. As a result, the tubing lengths remain short. This enables fast valve switching times and minimises paint and rinsing agent loss during colour changes.

Easier access to the process technology

As in previous generations, most of the process control technology in the EcoRP4 is integrated in arm 1 – a characteristic feature of Dürr painting robots. As part of the redesign, the housing concept was revised. Consequently, all process-related components can now be integrated into arm 1, that is, as close as possible to the atomiser for maximum efficiency. Arm 1 also features a continuous cover that can be accessed from the side. “For the redesign, we placed great emphasis on making it easier to access the process technology. “With fewer covers and side access, the new design simplifies maintenance and significantly shortens service times,” explains Mr. Bokermann.

Simpliﬁed drive technology for less maintenance

In addition to the above-mentioned changes, the design of the drive units

for axis 2 and axis 3 has been simplified. Instead of utilising an angular gearbox with a reduction gear, the pinion gear drive of the respective motor now sits directly on the motor shaft. Eliminating additional gear stages reduces both the number of components and the amount of wear and maintenance, further boosting the cost efficiency of the new robot generation.

The EcoRP4 also supports the HTE process and can be combined with Dürr’s latest application technology in a wide range of configurations. The market launch is planned for 2027.

About Dürr

Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Warwick, England, Dürr Limited specializes in planning and delivering turnkey paint shop and final assembly systems, as well as machinery and robot solutions for the automotive and general industries. The portfolio also includes specialized coating lines for lithium-ion battery electrodes. The company provides comprehensive automation, technology, and plant engineering services from a single source. In 2024, Dürr Limited employed around 100 people.

The Dürr Group is one of the world’s leading mechanical and plant engineering firms with particular expertise in the technology fields of automation, digitalization, and energy efficiency. Its products, systems, and services enable highly efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes – mainly in the automotive industry, for producers of furniture and timber houses, as well as in the assembly of medical and electrical products and in battery production. The Dürr Group generated sales of just under €4.2 billion in 2025 and currently has around 18,000 employees and 124 business locations in 32 countries. Since the sale of its environmental technology division at the end of October 2025, the business has been consolidated into three divisions:

Automotive: painting technology, final assembly, testing and filling technology as well as production technology for battery electrodes

Industrial Automation: assembly and test systems for automotive components, medical devices, and consumer goods as well as balancing technology solutions

Woodworking: machinery and equipment for the woodworking industry

Visit: www durr.com

The compact EcoRP4 painting robot features an asymmetrical architecture.

HMG PAINTS CONTINUES COMMITMENT TO CHARITY AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Manchester-based HMG Paints has continued to demonstrate its strong commitment to charitable causes and community projects through a series of fundraising events and paint donations, supporting both national charities and local organisations.

A key initiative saw employees take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, with a team of 24 staff travelling to the Yorkshire Dales to complete the demanding route in under 12 hours. The challenge, which included climbs of Pen-y-ghent,

Charity and Community SupportYorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

Charity and Community SupportYorkshire Three Peaks Walk

Whernside and Ingleborough, raised over £1,500 for Macmillan Cancer Support. The event held particular significance for those involved, with participants pushing their limits while supporting a cause close to many across the business.

In addition, staff also undertook the traditional Three Peaks Challenge, raising more than £2,500 for staff-selected charities including Cancer Research and Francis House Children’s Hospice. This challenge saw participants climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon over the course of three days, highlighting both individual determination and strong team collaboration.

The level of support received from the wider community further reflected the impact of these initiatives. Speaking on the fundraising efforts, Kate Pu�, Fundraising Officer at Francis House Children’s Hospice, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to HMG Paints for their fantastic fundraising efforts. The support shown by the team makes a real difference to the children and families we care for across Greater Manchester, helping us to provide vital services.”

Alongside these challenges, internal initiatives have also played a role, including a charity Christmas bake-off that brought together employees from across the business to create and share festive treats, judged by volunteer staff members, as well as other various fundraisers held throughout the year.

Beyond fundraising, HMG has continued to support local community projects through practical contributions. One such example includes involvement in the restoration of the Bromley Underpass as part of the Great British Spring Clean,

Charity and Community SupportBromley Underpass Refurbishment

where the company supplied products including C71 Speedline and Solvent Based Masonry Paint, working alongside the Central Neighbourhoods Team in Collyhurst.

Further local support has been provided to the Lalley Centre, where HMG supplied HydroPro Garden paint and staff volunteered their time to help revitalise the charity’s allotment space, creating a more welcoming and vibrant environment for those who rely on its services.

These initiatives highlight HMG Paints’ continued commitment to supporting the communities it serves, combining time, expertise and resources to make a meaningful impact beyond its day-today operations. The business looks forward to building on this work, with further fundraising challenges, community projects and partnerships planned as part of its ongoing commitment to the wider community.

Visit: www.hmgpaint.com

Charity and Community SupportBromley Underpass Volunteers

Charity and Community Support - Garden Paint Donation Lalley Centre

Charity and Community SupportNational Three Peaks Challenge

ZIRCONIA-FACED PROBES: A TOUGHER STANDARD FOR COATING INSPECTION BY DEFELSKO

Accuracy and durability sit at the heart of coating inspection. From offshore assets to structural steel, inspectors depend on reliable thickness measurements to ensure coatings perform as intended. Now, DeFelsko Corporation has introduced a significant advancement with its zirconia-faced probes—engineered to meet the growing demands of modern inspection environments.

Traditionally, probe tips have used materials such as soft core metals to deliver consistent readings. While effective, these can wear over time when used on abrasive surfaces like thermal spray coatings or hot-dip galvanised steel. As coatings become thicker and substrates rougher, probe durability has become increasingly important in maintaining measurement accuracy and consistency.

Zirconia-faced probes with ruby tips address this challenge directly. Manufactured using zirconia-toughened alumina, the probe face offers exceptional hardness and resistance to mechanical wear. This makes it particularly well suited to harsh, real-world conditions where conventional probe materials may degrade more quickly. The result is a longer-lasting probe that maintains performance across extended use.

This technology is now available across a wide range of DeFelsko probe models,

including the PosiTector 6000 FS, FTS, FNS, FNDS, FNTS, FRS, and PosiTector 6000 FNRS. This ensures inspectors can benefit from enhanced durability across ferrous, non-ferrous substrates.

For inspectors, the advantages are clear. Improved wear resistance means probes retain calibration for longer, reducing the need for frequent checks and replacements. This not only improves efficiency but also builds confidence in measurement results over time. On rough or uneven coatings, zirconia-faced probes provide more stable and repeatable readings, helping to minimise variability caused by probe wear.

Alongside durability improvements, DeFelsko continues to push performance in demanding environments. The PosiTector 6000 FXS and PosiTector 6000 FHXS are purpose-built for hightemperature applications, capable of measuring coatings on surfaces up to 250°C. These probes enable inspection without the need for cooling, improving efficiency in industries such as oil and gas, power generation, and heavy manufacturing.

Speed is another area where modern inspection demands more. When paired with the Advanced body of the PosiTector 6000, zirconia-faced probes benefit from high-speed scan modes capable of exceeding 200 readings per minute. This allows inspectors to cover large surface areas quickly, identify inconsistencies in real time, and meet industry standards without compromising on accuracy.

Flexibility remains a key strength of the PosiTector platform. Its modular design allows users to switch between probes effortlessly, with each probe storing its own calibration data. Zirconia-faced probes integrate seamlessly into this system, offering a straightforward upgrade in durability and performance without disrupting established workflows.

As coating technologies continue to evolve, inspection equipment must keep pace. By combining advanced ceramic materials with high-speed measurement capabilities and specialised solutions for extreme conditions, DeFelsko has delivered a practical response to the challenges faced by today’s inspectors.

Zirconia-faced probes represent more than just an incremental improvement— they reflect a broader shift towards tougher, faster, and more reliable inspection tools. For UK professionals working in demanding environments, that means greater efficiency, reduced downtime, and confidence in every measurement.

For more information on the PosiTector 6000 range and the full range of paint test equipment from DeFelsko, please contact Mark Conlon at DFT Instruments, proud authorised UK agent and service centre for DeFelsko. Telephone: 01442 879494

Email: sales@dftinstruments.co.uk

Visit site:www.dftinstruments.co.uk

Pull-Off Adhesion Testers

Measure the adhesion of coatings to metal, wood, concrete and more

n Impact and scratch resistant color Touch Screen display with keypad

n Wirelessly connect the PosiTest AT-A to your smart device using our free app

n Record the results as pass/fail and the nature of fracture cohesive, adhesive and glue failures

LIGHTS, CAMERA, CURE!

Seeing Inside Your Paint Oven for the First Time

PhoenixTM has developed a unique new Paint Process monitoring system, allowing for the first time, not only the traditional temperature profiling of the product temperature through the oven but also optical profiling of the products journey.

The PhoenixTM Optic system allows thru-process paint defect detection using Optical Profiling. The high-resolution video camera can safely travel through the paint oven with an independent torch recording video footage of what the product sees. The system is just like your car ‘Dash Cam’ the only difference being that the journey is through a cure oven operating up to 200 °C. The Optic system can be fixed on a test body with an adjustable mount option allowing monitoring of the exterior of a separate production body shell or potentially directly on a production body itself.

During the journey through the oven the painted car body can experience many problems that are not temperature related

that can affect the quality of the cured paint. Employing the PhoenixTM Optic system a video “Optical Oven Profile” can be recorded showing process engineers details of how their paint process is operating without the need to stop, cool and dismantle the oven. This allows safe routine oven inspection without the problems of costly lost production and days of oven down time. From the video evidence the root cause of process problems, possibly already highlighted by running the PhoenixTM temperature profile system, can be identified accurately and efficiently.

image, just like a shooting star across the nights sky. Such contamination is obviously a major paint inclusion quality concern. The video captured not only identifies the paint quality risk but allows location of the contamination source allowing quick corrective action.

Oven structural damage or faulty oven furniture such as recirculating fans, control thermocouples or heater elements can be detected. Buildup of unwanted dirt or condensate can be monitored allowing accurate service and clean down schedules to be planned to prevent future unplanned costly line stoppages. The illumination of the Optic system, supplied by the torch, detects airborne dust / dirt particulates as streaks across the video

Problems with conveyor systems and erratic movement of products through the oven can be identified at the exact location they occur. By monitoring the product surface, paint defects such as paint sags or curtains, paint or rinse entrapment or condensate contamination may also be detected.

A number of major international automotive manufactures are now employing the Optic system as a key monitoring tool to maximise the operational efficiency of their ovens. Many have been amazed to discover what was happening inside the oven during live production.

Don’t work in the dark but use the PhoenixTM system to truly open your eyes to exactly what you can discover in the mystery that is your paint cure oven! Whether temperature or optical monitoring PhoenixTM your Finishing Oven to find, fix and forget those paint cure problems!

For more information: Contact Dr Steve Offley - Product Marketing Manager. Telephone: +44(0)1353223100 Email: Steve.Offley@phoenixtm.com Visit: www.phoenixtm.com

Comprehensive Range

• Data Logger and Thermal Barrier choice (6 to 20 Thermocouples)

• Extensive Thermocouple range

• Real Time RF Telemetry options

• ATEX approved options

• Full UK service and calibration support

Software Packages to Suit

• Thermal View or enhanced Thermal View

Finishing software

- Match Analysis Tools to suit.

• CQI-12 Temperature Uniformity Survey solution options

Innovative Video Capture Thru the operating oven

• Detect paint runs, chips and defects

• Spot transport problems

• Identify oven damage

• Locate dust and inclusion risk areas

Temperature Profiling Systems

Oven Profile and TUS software

Optic Video Profiling System

• AirBench takesdustandfumes awayfromyourbreathingzone

• AirBench drawsthemthrough theworksurface,capturingthem insidethebench

• AirBench isavailableinawide rangeofsizesandfiltertypes tosuityourapplication

• AirBench isplugandgo-only needingunwrappingandplugging intoa13ampsocket

•Yougetextractionandwork benchinonecompactunit

Contactusforanon-sitedemonstration. Doubtitcanbethatsimple?

TheVertExmodularbooth system.Dustissuessolved...

• Modular systemforfast installationandassembly.

• LowEnergy throughtheuse ofhighefficiencyfans-upto 20,000m3/hat3kw.

• FiltrationOptions fromthe standardAirBenchrange.

• WeldingandGrinding boothsalso availablewithHEPAfinalfilter.

• RapidReconfiguration -standard componentsmeanVertExbooths canbereconfiguredondemand.

Doubtitcanbethatsimple?

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

ELCOMETER INTRODUCE THE 215 OVEN TEMPERATURE PROFILING SYSTEM—PROTECTING YOUR COATINGS, YOUR COMPLIANCE,

AND YOUR REPUTATION

Compliance Confidence

Elcometer, a global leader in inspection equipment, introduce the Elcometer 215 Temperature Profiling System, designed to empower manufacturers in the coatings, automotive, and metal fabrication sectors with unmatched visibility into their oven and product temperature cure profiles.

Accurate temperature monitoring is essential to ensure that coatings cure within their required parameters. The Elcometer 215 streamlines this critical process with cutting-edge thermal analysis that helps users validate performance, guarantee compliance, and reduce costly rework.

The Elcometer 215 effortlessly tracks and documents cure cycles providing traceable reports for audits and QA documentation in compliance with key national, international and customer-specific requirements, including:

QUALICOAT Specifications for architectural powder coatings

ISO 20482 (metallic coatings—oven curing)

ASTM D2485 (high-temperature resistance of coatings)

ISO 9001 traceability requirements for QA documentation

With automated reporting and audit-ready data, users can meet customer and regulatory demands with ease.

Scan & Spray

Dynamic Contour Detection

Programming-free coating of any shape! Gema

The second generation of Dynamic Contour Detection detects the object contour fully automatic and positions the guns individually even for thin objects and at high conveyor speeds. Due to the programming-free adaption of all relevant line settings the application range is significantly extended.

Email: uk.sales@gema.eu.com

Protect Your Coating Integrity: Undercured coatings risk adhesion failure, while overcuring can degrade finish quality. The Elcometer 215’s multi-channel logger captures nuanced thermal data across substrates to prevent guesswork.

Optimise Process Efficiency: Fine-tune oven settings based on real data, reduce energy consumption, and eliminate trial-anderror calibration. Empower your engineering team with reliable profiling that translates directly into lean production.

Plug-and-Play Simplicity: Compact, rugged, and intuitive— designed for demanding shop floors. The Elcometer 215 eliminates the traditional wait for data logger thermal barriers to cool.

Immediate Feedback: Thanks to its Bluetooth® connectivity, temperature readings can be transferred to the ElcoMaster® Software App as soon as the system is out of the oven and in range, providing immediate access to crucial data.

The Elcometer 215 Temperature Proﬁling System Operates in Three Simple Steps:

1. Set Up: Profile requirements are configured in the free ElcoMaster® software application using the paint manufacturer's datasheet and then sent to the Elcometer 215 Oven Logger via USB or Bluetooth®

2. Cure: Up to eight air or surface temperature thermocouples are attached to the product to monitor temperatures at key points during the curing process.

3. Analyse: After curing, the gauge provides an instant pass/fail result based on the collected data. All temperature data can then be downloaded to ElcoMaster® for generating professional temperature profile reports at the click of a button.

Key Features of The Elcometer 215 Include:

8-Channel Temperature Logger

Capture thermal gradients across large components or multiple substrates for accurate profiling

Advanced Thermal Barrier Protects instrumentation for extended periods or multiple profiling cycles

Real-Time Data Acquisition Immediate feedback to support in-process adjustments and troubleshooting

ElcoMaster® Software Analyse, archive, and share profiling results with intuitive reporting tools

Compact & Rugged Design Built for harsh factory environments with durable construction and easy portability

USB Connectivity Efficient data transfer for productivity-focused operations

Bluetooth Connectivity Enables remote data logging and wireless downloads, even without opening the insulation box - minimising heat loss and handling risk

Technical Speciﬁcations:

The Elcometer 215 boasts an impressive measurement range of -200°C to 1300°C (-328°F to 2372°F) and can connect up to eight thermocouple probes of various types (K, T, J, N, S, E, B, R).

It has a memory capacity of 1,000,000 readings and can perform up to 40 profile runs before returning to a PC. The Elcometer 215 is also dust and waterproof, equivalent to IP6X.

Availability

The Elcometer 215 Oven Temperature Profiling System is available through Elcometer distributors worldwide. For more information, visit www.elcometer.com or contact your local distributor.

About Elcometer

Elcometer is a leading manufacturer of high-quality blast, spray and inspection equipment.

For information on the Elcometer 215 Temperature Profiling System, our full range of products or to request a demonstration, visit www.elcometer.com or contact sales@elcometer.com

•

AKZONOBEL’S NEW DRONE INSPECTION TOOL LIFTS AIRCRAFT PAINT MAINTENANCE TO NEXT LEVEL

Aircraft paint maintenance has reached new levels of precision and predictability following the latest evolution of a digital management system developed by AkzoNobel’s Aerospace Coatings business.

First introduced in 2023, the Aerofleet Coatings Management service uses data-rich insights to help airlines optimize coating maintenance across their fleets. It now features a second drone-based inspection tool – the Iris CMX – which is capable of directly measuring coating performance using a targeted three-inone contact-based sensor.

Developed in partnership with Donecle, it captures precise, quantitative data for dry film thickness, color data and gloss measurements, bringing a new level of accuracy, consistency and repeatability to coating inspections. The existing Iris GVI drone flies in a set grid over a plane’s surface and provides a full-surface visual analysis by taking up to 600 high definition photos. The coatings management software then analyzes the images to flag any issues or wear of the coatings. Employing an advanced two-drone system further boosts

Aerofleet’s ability to precisely determine when an aircraft needs to be repainted, rather than simply using time or flight hours.

“Aerofleet Coatings Management has always been about giving airlines greater confidence in when and why they maintain or repaint their aircraft,” explains Patrick Bourguignon, Director of AkzoNobel’s Automotive and Specialty Coatings business. “The addition of the Iris CMX brings precise, consistent measurement into the process to strengthen the data that underpins our predictive models. It also allows us to support expert assessment with more objective, consistent and repeatable inspections, while improving the speed and efficiency of the inspection process.” With the addition of Iris CMX, the Aerofleet system now brings together three core data inputs to provide a comprehensive view of coating performance:

Flight and environmental data, such as route profiles, UV exposure and humidity

Full-surface visual analysis from the Iris GVI drone

Targeted, high-precision measurement from the Iris CMX drone

The two drones can be operated simultaneously, one on each side of the aircraft, by a trained team, who can complete a full inspection of a narrowbody aircraft in approximately 30 minutes.

Ideally suited for fleets of 100 aircraft or more, the service supports airlines in reducing unnecessary repainting, lowering maintenance costs and increasing aircraft availability. Over time, this contributes to both improved operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

To learn more about AkzoNobel’s Aerospace Coatings business, visit the website https://aerospace. akzonobel.com/en

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

STOP PAYING FOR PROBLEMS YOU COULD HAVE PREVENTED

Why Reactive Maintenance Costs in Precision Cleaning Operations – More Important Than You Realise

Reactive maintenance creates a cycle of disruption:

A precision cleaning process rarely fails all at once.

Performance drifts gradually: solvent quality declines, contamination rises, and machine parameters shift.

By the time production issues like increased rework, failed inspections, or unplanned downtime appear downstream, the financial damage is already done.

For many manufacturers, the root cause isn’t the aqueous or solvent equipment, it’s the absence of structured process ownership.

The Hidden Cost of Supplier Fragmentation

In the precision cleaning sector, equipment, chemistry, servicing, and waste handling are typically managed by different suppliers. This fragmentation of responsibility means problems are treated reactively rather than prevented systematically.

Unexpected breakdowns interrupt manufacturing schedules.

Process drift leads to inconsistent cleaning and rework.

Emergency interventions drive up service costs.

Solvent degradation reduces cleaning efficiency

Most of these disruptions are preventable. When these elements are managed through a single, structured lifecycle programme, cleaning becomes predictable, repeatable, and reliable.

A structured preventative maintenance programme removes variability before it impacts production.

Closing the Market Gap: From Supplier to Process Partner

The industry has traditionally suffered from a “disconnected supply” model: one vendor for equipment, another for chemistry, and a third for waste. No single provider takes ownership of the entire process.

Fraser Technologies addresses this gap. We move beyond simple distribution to support the complete cleaning lifecycle. Our objective is simple: Maximum uptime. Minimum surprises.

The Fraser Technologies Maintenance Programme

The Fraser Technologies Maintenance Programme is designed to move manufacturers away from reactive problem-solving and towards proactive process control.

A structured service framework maintains cleaning stability at every stage and covers all precision cleaning equipment types (aqueous, solvent, ultrasonic):

Process Audits: Verifies optimal conditions to avoid performance drift early.

Preventative Maintenance: Ensures long-term equipment reliability via scheduled interventions.

Solvent Testing & Stabilisation: Prevents chemistry drift before it reaches your parts.

Planned Service Interventions: Operational disruption minimised due to consistent system tuning.

Integrated Waste Management: Environmental compliance always met due to streamlined handling.

Each element reinforces the others.

The result is a controlled, stable, high-performance cleaning process with significantly reduced operational risk.

Built-In Reliability for Vacuum Degreasing

Specifically for vacuum degreasing systems, Fraser Technologies offers the deepest level of support within this broader servicing programme, by delivering a fully integrated framework including process optimisation, chemical maintenance, and responsive UK-based technical support. This isn’t just equipment servicing; it is complete process control.

Zero Unplanned Downtime Starts With Control

High-performance cleaning is achieved through planned maintenance and expert management.

Manufacturers adopting this integrated approach benefit from: Stable, repeatable cleaning outcomes.

Maximum equipment uptime and extended solvent life.

Lower total cost of ownership.

Improved compliance and operational confidence.

Not Just a Supplier. Your Cleaning Process Partner.

Fraser Technologies takes ownership of performance long after installation.

By integrating equipment, chemistry, maintenance, compliance, and optimisation into a single managed framework, manufacturers gain something increasingly valuable in modern production environments:

Process certainty.

To find out how the Fraser Technologies Maintenance Programme can eliminate cleaning variability in your operation, visit www.frasertech.co.uk or speak directly to our technical team on 01506 443058.

PHOS-PREP

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.

, queries whole

“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.

MEASURING THE INVISIBLE: WHY CHROMATE CONVERSION COATINGS STILL MATTER

A metal surface can fail long before it looks worn. Corrosion begins at the atomic margins, where chemistry, not mechanics, determines lifespan. Chromate conversion coatings operate precisely in that hidden realm. Formed as films often thinner than a micron, they quietly govern durability, conductivity, and paint adhesion across vast swaths of manufactured hardware.

Unlike deposited coatings, chromate conversion layers emerge from chemical transformation. When aluminum or zinc plated steel is immersed in a chromate bearing bath, the surface itself is converted into a complex oxide layer. That layer passivates the metal, improving corrosion resistance while preserving electrical conductivity and dimensional integrity. For fasteners, tools, and electronic components, especially those with tight tolerances, the advantages are decisive.

For decades, these benefits were delivered primarily through hexavalent

chromium chemistry. Cr(VI) systems remain technically effective, but their toxicity has reshaped the regulatory landscape. Environmental and health directives such as RoHS and REACH have accelerated the industry’s transition toward trivalent chromium, Cr(III), passivates. These alternatives meet regulatory demands, but they narrow the margin for error. Protective performance depends sensitively on coating thickness, and variation of even a few nanometers can alter corrosion resistance or compromise conductivity.

That sensitivity creates a metrology

problem. Chromate conversion coatings are exceptionally thin, frequently well below one micrometer. Many conventional thickness measurement techniques struggle at this scale or require destructive sample preparation, which is impractical in production environments. Yet process control depends on rapid, repeatable verification that coatings sit within a narrow optimal range.

This is where X ray fluorescence analysis has become indispensable. Modern high resolution XRF systems can resolve chromium signals against underlying zinc or iron substrates with remarkable clarity. Instruments from Bowman XRF, for example, are engineered to quantify conversion coatings down to just a few nanometers. The technique is nondestructive, requires minimal preparation, and delivers results in seconds, making it viable not only for laboratory analysis but also for routine quality control. Automated XYZ stages further allow consistent measurement across large sample sets, reducing operator variability.

The implications extend beyond compliance. As components become lighter, more compact, and more electrically integrated, surface chemistry increasingly defines functional performance. Chromate conversion coatings, whether based on legacy hexavalent systems or modern trivalent formulations, remain critical engineering tools. What has changed is the precision required to control them.

In the end, the durability of modern metal products often depends on layers too thin to see, but too important to ignore. Measuring those invisible films accurately is no longer a technical footnote. It is central to manufacturing reliability, regulatory compliance, and long term performance.

Visit: www.scimed.co.uk

Plating meets Innovation and Sustainability

SurTec 717 - Modular, Alkaline Zinc/Nickel Process for all Applications

Modular process for rack, barrel and special applications

Tolerates higher process temperature up to 35°C

Easy to control, automatically limits the nickel content below 16%

SurTec 680 - Cr(VI)-free Thick Layer Passivation for Zinc & Zinc Alloys

For highest quality requirements (heat resistance & corrosion protection)

Usage without waste water is possible

Highest cost-effectiveness when using the SurTec regeneration process

precote Product Range - Thread Locking and Sealing

Specially developed pre-coating products for locking, sealing & clamping

Based on unique microencapsulation technology

Excellent service and high-quality products made in Germany

TURN UP THE HEAT ON CQI-12 COMPLIANCE

. . . the complete PhoenixTM Oven TUS solution

Thru-process temperature profiling is now well established in the coating market to monitor the cure temperature of the coated product as it travels through the cure oven. The information is critical to not only guarantee product quality but also make the process as efficient as possible. With the on-going energy crisis, it most importantly allows operational characteristics of the oven (zone set temperatures / line speeds) to be optimised with confidence and with no risk to the cure quality.

For many working in the automotive market an additional monitoring challenge comes with meeting the demands of the CQI-12 Coating System Assessment (CSA) standard. As part of this standard

there is a requirement to prove the temperature accuracy and uniformity over the working zone of the cure oven by performing a Temperature Uniformity Survey (TUS).

PhoenixTM can offer systems to allow TUS to be performed on both Batch Box and even conveyorised ovens. For batch oven processes the external standalone PTM4220 data logger can be used with trailing TUS thermocouples without need for thermal protection. Each thermocouple is fixed to the designated location on the TUS frame positioned in the oven cavity. Live data generated during the run can be viewed in real time in the survey software during the TUS run.

For conveyorised oven processes where trailing thermocouples cannot be used the TUS is performed using the thru-process monitoring system. The PTM1210 / PTM1510 Epsilon data logger protected by the thermal barrier is connected to the TUS frame (volumetric or plane method). The system travels through the oven in a continuous fashion with temperature data being sent from the data loggers optional onboard RF Telemetry transmitter. The RF signal travels via the RF antenna exiting the thermal barrier to the RF receiver

connected to the monitoring PC. Alternatively, the TUS data run can be simply downloaded from the data logger post run for full TUS analysis and reporting. All data loggers supplied by PhoenixTM meet the strict accuracy requirements demanded by the CQI-12 Temperature Uniformity Survey. The onboard cold junction compensation technology ensures that the data logger accuracy is maintained at ±0.3 °C.

Even if the data logger nominal temperature changes during use, either on the shop floor or inside the thermal barrier, measurement accuracy is protected. This is not the case for all systems so check the manual for effect of changing data logger nominal temperature on the data logger accuracy.

To perform a Temperature Uniformity Survey (TUS) to comply with CQI-12, PhoenixTM have developed a software package (Thermal View Survey) specifically designed to allow efficient

surveying of the oven. At critical TUS temperature levels data logger recorded data can be analysed to check that at all points on the TUS frame (oven working zone) are within a specified tolerance (Target TUS temperature ± Tolerance) and remain in tolerance for the period of the specified TUS test. Graphical tools and analysis tables allow easy clear data interpretation. Accuracy of data can be maximised through automatic application of both data logger and thermocouple correction factors. All analysis and reporting requirements of the CQI-12 are provided by the software to verify full compliance.

To understand, control, optimise & certify your coating operation why not PhoenixTM your finishing oven today!

For more information: Contact Dr Steve Offley - Product Marketing Manager.

Telephone: +44(0)1353223100

Email: Steve.Offley@phoenixtm.com Visit: https://www.phoenixtm.com/

PRETREATMENT, SURFACE PREPARATION, DEGREASING & CLEANING

THE SCIENCE OF CLEAN: HOW NEXT-GENERATION SOLVENTS ARE REDEFINING PRECISION CLEANING

Across aerospace, automative, electronics, medical devices, and precision engineering, achieving the required level of component cleanliness is essential to ensuring product performance, reliability, and compliance.

A new generation of PFAS-free vapour degreasing solventsled by formulations such as ProSolv®5408e - is demonstrating that environmental responsibility and uncompromising cleaning performance are no longer mutually exclusive.

Why Vapour Degreasing Endures

Vapour degreasing has been a cornerstone of industrial cleaning for decades, and for good reason. The process exploits the physics of phase change: a solvent is heated to boiling, generating a stable vapour zone in which cooler components are suspended. As vapour condenses on the part surface, it dissolves oils, greases, machining fluids, waxes, and particulate residues before

draining away under gravity - leaving components clean, dry, and residue-free without any mechanical scrubbing.

The elegance of the process lies in its physics. Cleaning occurs in a closed loop - solvents are continuously distilled and recovered via cooling coils - making it both efficient and measurable. Cycle times are short, results are repeatable, and the absence of mechanical agitation means even the most delicate components emerge unscathed.

The Molecular Mechanics Behind Effective Cleaning

Understanding why modern solvents perform so well requires a look at the molecular properties that drive cleaning effectiveness. Several characteristics work in concert:

Low Surface Tension

A solvent that cannot wet a surface cannot clean it. Low surface tension allows the

fluid to spread rapidly across complex geometries - penetrating micron-scale features, tight clearances, and blind holes that would defeat many conventional cleaning methods. This is particularly critical in sectors such as electronics assembly or medical device manufacture, where intricate topographies are the norm rather than the exception.

Solvency Strength and Polarity

Most industrial soils - oils, greases, machining fluids - are nonpolar and hydrophobic. Matching solvent polarity to contaminant type is fundamental to efficient cleaning.

Low-polarity solvents dissolve these soils readily, and when paired with low surface tension, the combination delivers consistent removal even in hard-to-reach areas. Solvency strength is typically expressed as a Kauri-Butanol (KB) Value; a higher figure indicates broader capability across a wider range of contaminants.

The Solvation Mechanism

When a solvent molecule contacts a contaminant, it progressively surrounds and separates individual molecules or particles - weakening intermolecular forces until the soil detaches and is carried away. In a vapour degreasing system, this occurs continuously as fresh condensate flows across the component surface, ensuring dissolved soils are consistently drained rather than redeposited.

“With a KB Value of 98 and a Global Warming Potential of less than 1, ProSolv®5408e demonstrates that high cleaning performance and low environmental impact can coexist in a single formulation.”

ProSolv®5408e:

Performance Without Compromise

Developed by EnviroTech Europe, ProSolv®5408e is engineered for critical cleaning applications where failure is not an option. It is a PFAS-free formulation with a KB Value of 98 - placing it firmly in the high-solvency category - and a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than 1 (100-year Integrated Time Horizon, AR4). Zero Ozone Depletion Potential completes a strong environmental credentials profile.

Its exceptionally low surface tension allows penetration into the finest features and most complex geometries, making it equally at home cleaning a multilayer PCB assembly and an aerospace turbine component. Parts exit the degreaser clean, dry, residue-free, with non-volatile residue below 10 ppm and with no additional drying required.

Operationally, the formulation is straightforward to manage. Its mid-range boiling point of approximately 46°C makes for safe and comfortable handling, while its stable chemistry eliminates the need for additives or routine test kits. It is non-flammable, carries no flash point, and is classified as non-hazardous for transport - a meaningful advantage for sites managing COSHH compliance or seeking to streamline their chemical safety burden.

ProSolv®5408e is also compatible with standard vapour degreasing equipment

and supports ultrasonic-assisted cleaning, broadening its applicability further. High fluid density, combined with high solvency, means it performs reliably in both conventional and ultrasonicassisted systems without modification.

Sectors and Applications

ProSolv®5408e is approved and in active use across a broad range of precision industries, including:

Aerospace and Avionics - where stringent cleanliness standards and material compatibility requirements demand a proven, validated solvent chemistry.

Electronics and Electrical - cleaning PCBs, connectors, and sub-assemblies to the fine residue tolerances that modern circuitry demands.

Medical Device Manufacturing - where biocompatibility and traceability of cleaning processes are essential.

Automotive and Motorsport - precision components, fuel system parts, and safety-critical assemblies.

Military and Defence - meeting demanding cleanliness specifications for critical applications.

Oxygen Cleaning - where residue-free surfaces are a safety imperative, not merely a quality target.

Power Generation, Marine, and Railway sectors - for maintenance and precision component cleaning across harshenvironment applications.

A Future-Ready Solution

The regulatory direction of traveltightening restrictions on PFAS, persistent solvents, and high Global Warming chemistries - makes the choice of cleaning fluid a highly strategic decision. Switching to a sustainable, highperformance alternative now protects both operational continuity and compliance position as regulations evolve.

ProSolv®5408e is manufactured in the United Kingdom and available globally through EnviroTech Europe’s distribution network, with short lead times. The EnviroTech technical team offers guidance on solvent selection, changeover procedures and equipment compatibility.

Safe for users and the environment

Sustainable PFAS-free formulation.

Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP).

Very low Global Warming Potential (GWP < 1).

High density solution, excellent for ultrasonic cleaning.

Mid-range boiling point (46°C).

High Solvency (KB Value 98) for a variety of contaminants

Non-flammable (no flash point).

Non-hazardous for transport.

Low hazard classification, supporting a favourable operator safety profile.

Testing

Flash Point ASTM D3828 and ASTM D93.

Flammable limits ASTM E918.

Stock Loss ARP1755B.

IGA Intergranular attack.

Stress corrosion of titanium alloys ASTM F945-12.

Hydrogen Embrittlement ASTM F519-17a.

Further information

ProSolv®5408e is manufactured in the United Kingdom and available through our global distribution network with short lead times.

For more information, please visit: www.envirotech-europe.com

Or telephone: +44 (0) 20 8942 9177

EnviroTech Europe have many years of experience, and our experts are available to guide you through your solvent cleaner changeover procedures or to advise on equipment.

WAM Silotop

Airmaster Donaldson Camfil Goldcone Air Filtration

THE BEST KEPT SECRET

IN

THE INDUSTRY IS JUST A LOAD OF BALLS!

“Euro-Matic’s croffles solution solves so many manufacturing issues, why doesn’t everyone know about it?”

Let’s face it, it isn’t a new thing, a croffle, in fact Euro-Matic have been producing them since 1965 and have been selling them globally, but its surprising how many people don’t know about them or what a simple, cost effective solution they are for the manufacturing environment.

For any factories or production plants with chemical processes or heat or cooling tanks there will inevitably a number of knock on effects, such as maintaining tank temperature and the costs associated with this and also the nasty smells, toxins or even just the damage evaporation can do to the work place environment in respect to decay of buildings and the workforce. But this long-standing simple solution that has been development by Euro-Matic solves these issues simply by pouring blanket of balls onto any open process tanks and creating a flexible cover.

A blanket of Euro-Matic croffles reduce heating costs by up to 75%, and evaporation by 90% and they last for years.

Euro-Matic balls come in a variety of plastics such as HDPE and most commonly PP dependent on the chemicals and a variety of sizes from 6mm right up to 150mm. The cool thing is that the balls move around any parts in machinery and by sitting on the top of the liquid, there is completely no maintenance.

We have many satisfied repeat customers from chrome and electroplating to automotive and what is simple is that they are literally poured on to the tank with immediate benefits.

How to get some balls

Balls can be ordered on line at www.euro-matic.co.uk or by calling them on 0330 311 0003 where their friendly staff will work out exactly how many you need, there is also a clever ball calculator that enables you to insert tank dimensions and it will do the maths for you, https://www.euro-matic.co.uk/ball-calculator/

Euro-Matic supply direct and or to distributors. Stock is all available next day from their Midlands distribution hub.

HADLEIGH ENTERPRISES OFFERS SPECIALIST MASKING TAPE EXPERIENCE AND CAPABILITY

our customers have in our services,” explains David Ogles.

With applications ranging from powder coating to corrosion protection, Hadleigh Enterprises Ltd. brings five decades’ of experience.

Hadleigh Enterprises Ltd has been trading since 1971 as an independent family business, gaining ISO 9001 in 1992.

The Essex-based company stocks and supplies an extensive choice of masking products, all sourced from leading manufacturers. The metal processing and surface finishing sector is a key market for its services with a diverse range of needs met by Hadleigh’s ability to match product type, volume and design to exact requirements.

“So many individual masking tape applications are unique to specific processes, because of this we have found it is vital to work as closely as possible with each customer to develop highly specific solutions,” says David Ogles, Hadleigh Enterprises’ Managing Director.

“By being involved from the outset, and with ongoing production reviews, we can look not only to supply the most appropriate masking system, but can also ensure the customer benefits from continuous innovation – all as part of a

structured application process.” This last point, he believes, is often crucial.

For example, the company’s willingness to develop prototype solutions that address key factors, such as masking accuracy and adhesion, is extremely important and can have a fundamental bearing on ongoing production operations. This also helps to ensure that leading edge developments, such as very high bond performance, the ability to fulfil metal-to-metal applications and high temperature capability of up to 380°C, come under the spotlight every time.

Hadleigh Enterprises hold the accreditation – EN9100:2016 certification – which is of particular note to those involved in the aerospace sector.

“Aerospace has long been one of the markets in which we operate and this accreditation – which is technically equivalent to AS9100D –marks a level of operational capability that will build on the confidence that

“The standard reflects the importance attributed to supply chain quality, not least in the context of safety of goods throughout their life cycle which is a major factor, of course, in the aerospace sector,” adds David Ogles. “Overall, this is seen as part of the drive towards establishing commonality of aviation, space and defence quality systems and we are delighted that it underscores our role in these extremely challenging fields.”

Hadleigh Enterprises sources master rolls from leading manufacturers before slitting and shaping them, often to produce die-cut shapes from engineering drawings, to meet exact customer requirements. The company undertakes all conversion in-house to optimise control of both quality and delivery, and can achieve slitting tolerances of +/– 0.2 mm.

“We are very happy to provide material in quantities of all sizes, even down to a single roll which may be all that is initially required for a prototyping operation,” continues David Ogles.

In so many sectors of the metal finishing and surface treatment industry, the benefits of Hadleigh Enterprises’ capability and experience will be widely acknowledged. “As masking quality is often so closely linked to production results, it is vital that the need for optimised masking is not overlooked,” concludes David Ogles.

Full details are available by contacting Hadleigh Enterprises by phone or email.

Telephone: 01268 572255

Email: sales@hadleightapes.co.uk

Visit: www.hadleigh-tapes.co.uk

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

Junair are the UK’s number one supplier of paint finishing equipment, offering the most energy efficient and lowest full life cost of any system on the market.

Experts in the design, manufacture and supply of:

• Paint and powder coating systems

• Dip and spray pre-treatment

• Drying and curing ovens

• Overhead and floor mounted conveyors

CUSTOM MASKING SOLUTIONS

SPECIAL DIE-CUTS

Many industrial processes require highly specialized solutions that can handle extreme conditions, such as very high temperatures or aggressive chemical treatments. With custom masking, it is possible to develop solutions that fit these conditions perfectly, offering optimal protection during treatments such as chrome plating or thermal painting.

Euromask® uses die-cutting techniques to create custom masks that fit perfectly to the geometry of a component. These solutions can be made of silicone or durable plastic materials, which are then cut into specific shapes to cover only the desired areas.

SPECIAL PRINTS (3D PRINTING IN SILICONE)

3D printing is another technology that is gaining ground in the customization of masks. Using CAD software, it is possible to design masks with extremely complex geometries that would not be possible with traditional methods. Euromask® offers 3D printing solutions for rapid prototypes, creating masks that can be tested before mass production.

Innovation in materials

Use of 3D-printed liquid silicone, ideal for applications in: medical field (skin contact), industrial field (chemical and thermal resistance).

Possibility to create products with different hardness levels (40-50 Sh.A) and complex geometries.

Elimination of traditional molds

No more waiting times or costs related to metal or rubber molds.

This allows great flexibility in the development phase and cost reduction.

Telephone: +39 02 96780055

Visit: https://www.euromask-shop.com/

3D Printing

HANGON QUICK WIRE SHAFT

HangOn proudly present a cost effective disposable hanger, HQW D.

It’s unique and Innovative design, with thin wire in a framework shape provides strong stability as well as allowing for flexibility in how it is suspended on the line. It is a standard, stock, product that is quick to use and easy to pack. Filling the line has never been easier!

Quick, 3 times faster than daisy chain hanging Efficient packing, easy start up Low pricing

Easy handling and stable design Flexible, can be used with hooks, shafts or frames Standard program on stock makes HQW D very accessable

FOR GENERATIONS HANGON HAVE DEVELOPED WITH THEIR CUSTOMERS

Centuries of smart solutions have paid off. At HangOn know-how and industrial coating process experience run deep, which means that they quickly find the smartest solutions that give you the best result.

HangOn’s R&D is constantly focused on finding new solutions for your challenges. Sometimes they come up with answers before questions arise and solve yet

unidentified problems. They are happy to provide advice on how to make your process more efficient, and can provide calculations that show exactly how much money you save or make with our smart solutions.

“Smart thinking is never stupid. HangOn focus on small solutions that make a big difference for your business. What you do with the resources saved, well, that is up to you.”

HangOn keeps on growing – with new colleagues, new technological possibilities and new smart solutions. Regardless of how big they grow, they will never grow apart – and will always grow with you. Always close, only a phone call away and delivering as promised, if not more.

Global presence

HangOn is present all over the world, with distributors in more than 40 countries. They are continuously developing their international operations to meet customer’s needs. The HangOn

headquarters, R&D, production and main distribution hub are located in Hillerstorp, Sweden.

To offer superior logistics, their distribution hubs are strategically located around the world.

Patents

HangOn are constantly inventing new smart solutions while developing their products.

Many special projects for specific customers and products lead to solutions with wider applications. These often have the potential to make the coating industry much more efficient, which is why they apply for patents and design patents.

All of this ensures HangOn have the customer at the heart of their operation.

Telephone: 01547 540573

Email: sales@hangon.co.uk

Visit: www.hangon.com/en

PFAS FREE RANGE

We are the UK distributor for Tergo Peformance Fluids

It is a readily available alternative for Novec fluids and provides excellent cleaning performance with minimal modification in most, modern vapour degreasing machines. It’s also safer for workers and gentler on the planet.

Tergo™ XCF1

tor ternative Novec ng with dern degreasing gentler on the planet.

ergo™ for cleaning an solvent Engineered high-performan carrier

A cutting-edge, PFAS-free monosolvent developed by MicroCare™ for use in vapour degreasing, ultrasonic cleaning, and solvent flush systems Engineered for high-performance cleaning, drying, and carrier applications, XCF1 delivers precision results with excellent environmental and material compatibility

Direct Replacement for 3M™ Novec™ 7100

Why Choose Us?

Tergo™ XCF2

Tergo XCF2 is a specialty solvent blend designed to clean difficult soils using either an open-top or vacuum vapor degreaser. It is a high-KB fluid suited for metal cleaning and circuit board applications

Tergo™ XCF3

ergo , ce er uding li fl id r ergo™ o time zeotropic, d open-top, sonic reasers. w cl d erg t e e a en tra g

Direct Replacement for 3M™ Novec™ 71DE & 72DE

Tergo XCF3 is designed to eliminate the most tenacious contaminants in the most efficient time Tergo XCF3 is an azeotropic, specialised solvent blend ideal for operating in open-top, ultrasonic and vacuum vapor degreasers. It has excellent solvency power for a wide range of soils, including oils, greases, waxes, and hydraulic fluids

Direct Replacement for 3M™ Novec™ 72DE & 73DE Over 25 years of expertise Full service supply, installation, commissioning & support UK-based service engineers International supply and support

aximising Reliabil ty

solvent evaluation trials Maximising Equipment Reliability and Cleaning Efficiency

BURROW FABRICATIONS COMPLETES PREMIUM SCANIA 560 REFINISH WITH HMG ACRYTHANE 4G

A comprehensive refurbishment project on a Scania 560 has been successfully completed by James Burrow of Burrow Fabrications, using highperformance coatings manufactured by HMG Paints and supplied by Mallaband Factors. The refurbished vehicle will be returning to the road in a high gloss red thanks to HMG’s market leading Acrythane 4G.

The project involved a full sandblast and restoration of the vehicle, ensuring a clean foundation for a durable and high-quality finish. By combining expert fabrication and preparation with industry-leading coating systems, the refurbishment has delivered a long-lasting and professional result across all areas of the vehicle.

High-Performance Coating System

To ensure maximum durability and protection, working with HMG Paints, the team at Mallaband Factors were able to specify a multi-stage coating system applied to different areas and substrates of the vehicle, each of which was carefully selected to suit the demands of heavyduty commercial transport.

Speaking of the project James Mallaband, Partner at Mallaband Factors said “When we were approached by our customer James Burrow Fabrications to provide a high spec commercial vehicle refurbishment system, we knew that partnering with HMG Paints would be

the solution, and we knew that Acrythane 4G topcoat would provide the ultimate high gloss, durable finish that the customer was seeking. In consultation with HMG’s technical team, a full system was designed and presented to James Burrow to meet the overall durability, protection, and final appearance that he was seeking.”

The chassis was treated with a robust protective system designed to provide long-term corrosion resistance and a high-quality finish. The process included the application of EpiPrime, a Zinc Phosphate 2K Epoxy Primer, containing MIO, designed to offer the ultimate in heavy duty anti-corrosion protection.

Comprehensive Lifecycle Management

KOCH manages ﬁnishing systems from concept to long-term support, ensuring seamless integration and reduced project risks.

Wide Range of Coating Technologies

KOCH oﬀers turnkey solutions for liquid paint, powder coating, electrocoating, anodizing, plating, and porcelain enamel.

Focus on Sustainability and Ef ciency

Systems are built with energy-eﬃcient technologies and eco-friendly features like wastewater and emissions control.

Global Reach with Local Expertise

KOCH operates globally with local presence in the US, Mexico, and Europe for close customer collaboration.

This was then overcoated with EP2 Epoxy Primer and followed by Acrythane 4G black topcoat in RAL. The trifecta of products ensures exceptional adhesion, protection, and gloss retention in demanding operating environments.

For the cab, a high-gloss premium finish was required, developed to provide outstanding gloss, final appearance and durability Acrythane 4G was the perfect choice. EP2 Epoxy Primer was selected as the primer of choice and overcoated by a coloured coat of Acrythane 4G in Red, an additional coat of Acrythane 4G Clear Gloss was used to enhance the distinctiveness of image and provide enhanced depth, shine, and long-term surface protection.

Other vehicle areas, including plastics and secondary components, were coated using the same go-to system of EP2 Epoxy Primer and Acrythane 4G in a variety of colours, this approach ensured a consistent, high-quality finish across all surfaces of the vehicle.

“We are thrilled with the professional support provided by Martin Binnington,

Tony O’Connor from our paint manufacturer partner at HMG which helped ensure the supply experience, and end result for the customer exceeded expectations,” said James. A key success of HMG’s growth has been its close working relationship with its network of distributors who are all specifically selected.

Expert Craftsmanship and Quality Materials

Since launching in 2019, Acrythane 4G, with an optimised balance of early hardness, fast cure and long pot life, has fast become the go-to product for OEM’s, repairers and refinishers in many demanding marketplaces.

Acrythane 4G is available in a wide choice of colours, including over 2400 from the HMG ColourBase Colour Box. The ColourBase Colour Box tool consists of colour chips, displayed in chromatic order within 20 fan decks. The ColourBase Colour Box is a multifunction tool, in the sense that not only each colour has a chromatic code that

identifies its position in the colour sequence, but it also corresponds to a colour existing on the market for reference. Acrythane 4G and its library of colours is available nationwide from HMG’s distribution partners, who like Mallaband provide local customers with market leading service and products.

The project highlights the effectiveness of combining professional craftsmanship with advanced coating technology. With materials from HMG Paints, supplied by Mallband Factors, and the skilled workmanship of Burrow Fabrications, the Scania 560 has been restored to a standard that delivers both durability and visual excellence. This refurbishment demonstrates how modern coating systems and expert support and application can significantly extend the lifespan and appearance of commercial vehicles.

Visit HMG Paints for more information, www.hmgpaint.com to find out about the full range of products and technical support services or visit https://www. mallabandfactors.co.uk to learn more about Mallaband Factors.

RAC® 5

ONE GUARDFOR ENO ROFDRAUG

RAC® X Tips

KEY BENEFITS

WIDE APPICATIONS

Use one guard for all your airless spraying needs — production, high-pressure, fine finish, low-pressure, wide-angle, line marking and more.

Insert two tips. On one side RAC® 5, RAC® XHD and SC-6 tips and on the other side RAC® X tips and switch instantly for speed and flexibility.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

+ Pressure rated up to 530 BAR / 7,700 PSI

+ Fits RAC® 5, RAC® XHD, SC-6 and RAC® X tips

Engineered for convenience. TWINFIT® connects seamlessly to almost any professional airless spray gun. Tighten by hand or wrench to any 7/8” or 11/16” connection.

Only two seats and seals required. Our unique SealEx® 6 for RAC® 5, RAC® XHD, and SC-6 tips, and SealEx® 7 for RAC® X tips ensure reliable performance and perfect adaptability.

FIRST PAINTING

Maximize control, and protect the user: TWINFIT® is built to support professionals ‘under pressure’.

+ Perfect match for ExitFlex® Speedy 6 and Speedy 7 airless tips

+ Rugged, durable and ready for all-day use

COMBINE TWINFIT® WITH SPEEDY TIPS TO UNLOCK THE FULL POWER OF YOUR AIRLESS SYSTEM.

SPEEDY 6

VERSATILITY AT ITS CORE

+ Universal compatibility with all major airless systems and guards.

+ 715+ tip sizes for production, fine finish, line striping and more.

+ Ergonomic handle with built in seal and tIp positioning tool

+ Ideal for daily use with your existing equipment.

+ Perfect fit with TWINFIT® for seamless operation.

SPEEDY 7 TOP OF THE RANGE

+ Tip locking mechanism for extra safety on high-pressure jobs.

+ Designed for tough conditions - shipbuilding, heavy industry and more.

+ 715+ tip sizes, ergonomic excellence.

+ Perfect fit with TWINFIT® for optimal safety amd performance.

+ The go-to for heavy duty professionals demanding precision, protection and perfection.

From design, manufacturing and supply to installation, commissioning and ongoing support,

Oven Temperature Logger

•

Incubators & Industrial Ovens

• 100+ Models Available

• Made in the UK & EU

• Prices Starting from £300

PFAS Free Solutions LOX & GOX Approved Aqueous & Solvent Solutions Free Cleaning Trials Solvent & Aqueous Ultrasonic Equipment

EQUIPMENT

• ADVANCED MODULAR RANGE

• SWITCH MODE UNITS

• SCR RECTIFIERS

• PULSE RECTIFIERS

• RAMP CONTROLLERS

• PROCESS PARAMETER PRINTING

• SPECIAL COMPUTERISED RECTIFIERS

• OPERATOR GUIDANCE SYSTEMS FOR ANODISING & PLATING

• A/HOUR METERS & DOSING PUMPS

• METERS

• SHUNTS

• PLANT CONTROL SYSTEMS

• DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

PRETREAMENT

LACQUERS

• Up to 50% energy savings

• Compact size

• Easy & safe to use

• Works up to 350°C

• Low exhaust emissions

• High efficiency

• Requires no specialist knowledge

• Corrosion free operation

• No chemical treatment Thermal Fluid Heating Technology now for the future

Tel: 020 8953 7111 info@babcock-wanson.com www.babcock-wanson.com

• PLANT CONTROL SYSTEMS

• DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

• BARRELS - PROGALVANO ROTOR

• BARREL AUTO LOADING SYSTEMS

• PROGALVANO FILTERS

• SEMI/AUTOMATIC FILTER SYSTEMS

• CENTRIFUGAL DRYERS Large Range)

• AUTOMATIC DRYING SYSTEMS

• ROTARY PAINTING/LAQUERING

• TOP COATING/SEALING SYSTEMS

• VIBRATORY POLISHING EQUIPMENT

• LUBRICATION EQUIPMENT

• RECTIFIERS Conventional & Pulse

• A/HOUR METERS & DOSING PUMPS

In-process Cleaning

Aqueous Ultrasonics

Precision Cleaning • FPI Lines

Degreasing • Anodising Chemical Cleaning for MRO Chemical Etching/Milling

E sales@turbex.co.uk

T 01420 544 909

F 01420 542 264 turbex.co.uk Final Cleaning • Spray Wash

SHARMIC FOR FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE

Experienced Engineers After sales technical support Nationwide deliveries

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.

Long Drive, Meadway, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2PN t: 01442 879494 f: 01442 879595

www.dftinstruments.co.uk e: sales@dftinstruments.co.uk

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!