Issuu

VOLUME 67 • ISSUE 3 SEPTEMBER 2025

Prime partners

ALSO INSIDE: • THE PERFECT PRIMING PAIR – SATAJET 100 B BLACK AND HIGH PERFORMANCE LVP-565 • TASSIE REPAIRERS GREEN BELT TRAINING COURSE GAINS • REVVED UP: HOT ROD & CUSTOM AUTO EXPO IS BIGGER THAN EVER

PPG delivers with Kenworth

CONTENTS 3

SATAjet 100 B Black

ISSUE

September 2025 VOLUME 67

MAGAZINE

Editor-In-Chief Andrew Blake

Editors Megan Crockford John Stanley Creative Director Dean Parrott Published for and on behalf of PPG Industries Pty Limited by

Kisschasey Creative Pty Ltd Telephone (03) 9421 3311

Australia Head Office Locked Bag 888, Clayton South, Victoria 3169. McNaughton Road, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3168 Telephone: 13 24 24 www.ppgrefinish.com.au New Zealand Head Office 5 Vestey Drive, Mt Wellington, Auckland, New Zealand. Toll Free Telephone: 0800 320 320 Victoria 104-106 Woodlands Drive, Braeside, 3195 Telephone (03) 8586 0000 New South Wales 10 Peter Brock Drive, Eastern Creek, 2766 Telephone (02) 9854 6600 Queensland 18 Breene Place, Morningside, 4170 Telephone (07) 3823 8000 South Australia 97-105 Bedford Street, Gillman, 5013 Telephone (08) 8346 6870 Tasmania 136 Invermay Rd, Invermay, 7248 Telephone 1300 305 699 Western Australia Unit 2/6 Colin Jamieson Drive, Welshpool, 6106 Telephone (08) 9256 3920

Win a jet X! The opening act that really delivers - the 'Filler Brothers'. Our stars for applying primer and filler - the limited edition SATAjet 100B Black. Finished in the new SATA premium black, it's offered in RP 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0. Available from participating SATA distributors but only while stocks last.

Order a SATAjet 100 B Black for your chance to win one of 20 jet X DIGITAL ready spray guns! Don’t miss your chance!

PPG Logo, Delfleet, Deltron, Envirobase, Global Refinish System, Harlequin, PaintManager, Prizmatique, Radiance, RapidMatch, Startline and ‑ are registered trademarks and We protect and beautify the world, Crystallance and RapidMatch are trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. SATA and SATAjet are registered trademarks of SATA GmbH & Co. KG. Third-party trademarks referenced in this magazine are the property of their respective owners.

Contact your local SATA distributor for more information! Follow us online! PPG Refinish Australia & New Zealand

www.sata.com/100b-black

SC A N TO R E A D T HE REFINISHER ONLINE

features regulars

Editorial Co-ordinator Chelsea Hilsberg

4 News performance abrasives 6 SEM Check out the latest SEM abrasive range

and succession 10 Success Handing over a successful 41-year family legacy can be difficult, but Carl Francessca is confident he’s leaving his West Perth business in good hands

movers and shakers 16 Prime With more than half a century in business and almost 90,000 Kenworths locally manufactured in Melbourne, the motto ‘Australian Made. World’s Best.’ is more than just a slogan

20 Pastel popularity creates unexpected Blending pastel colours

challenge for refinishers

future of sanding 28 The technology Meet the Mirka DEROS® RS 600

scientific approach 32 ADesigning trailers for safety

and longevity

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REFINISHER NEWS

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DRIVE THROUGH

PPG collaborates with Lucid Motors P

PG recently announced that it has collaborated with electric vehicle (EV) maker Lucid Motors to develop unique exterior colour effects for Lucid Motors’ luxury EV ranges using the PPG ANDARO® pigment nanodispersion technology. “This collaboration between PPG and Lucid Motors exemplifies how pigment technologies and visionary design can come together to redefine the aesthetics of electric mobility,” said Molly Prylinski, PPG Colour Core Team technical adviser. “By leveraging the advanced capabilities of PPG Andaro technology, the two companies have created a distinctive and emotionally resonant colour palette that enhances the identity of Lucid Motor’s luxury EVs.”

“I

believe that knowledge is one of the most valuable tools in business, and at PPG, it’s something we’re proud to share and grow through the partnerships we build with customers, suppliers and business partners. We recognise the value of knowledge and strong relationships in driving success, and we work alongside the best-in-class innovators and industry leaders to deliver long-term value not only to our customers but also to the industry as a whole, both in Australia and New Zealand. For the Lucid Air sedan, the unique colour range includes Zenith Red, Stellar White, Cosmos Silver and Quantum Grey. Colour inspiration for the Lucid Gravity SUV was drawn from the California landscape, featuring Lunar Titanium, Aurora Green, and R Supernova Bronze.

PPG Supreme Entrant Award is back at Summernats 38 T

he PPG Supreme Entrant Award is back! In 2026, PPG will continue its long-standing partnership with Summernats, one that has been ongoing for more than 20 years, having recently announced the return of the ever-popular award. While the finalists in the running for the prestigious title are shortlisted by the Summernats judges and include cars from across all categories, it’s the people who vote for the ultimate winner.

PPG Corner will also return in 2026, featuring show cars, PPG products and merchandise, live demonstrations and more. Make sure Summernats 38 is locked in your calendar, 8-11 January at Exhibition Park, Canberra. For more information, visit R summernats.com.au

WITH ANDREW BLAKE REFINISH MARKETING DIRECTOR ANZ

“The stories we share in this issue of Refinisher demonstrate how trusted relationships and shared expertise continue to move our industry forward. We highlight new product developments with the launch of new Mirka, SEM and SATA products (pages 6, 8, 28), focus on how emerging and innovative technologies, such as B1:B2™ Compact Paint Systems and PPG Envirobase® High Performance primers and coatings, are reshaping OEM factories and refinish workshops (page 30), and showcase some the many success stories of our customers. What’s possible when knowledge and partnerships come together? The pages ahead say it all.”

PPG is recognised globally for sustainable practices F

or the seventh consecutive year, PPG has been included in the FTSE4Good Index and recognised for its sustainability progress. Created by global index and data provider FTSE Russell, the FTSE4Good Index Series is designed to measure the performance of companies demonstrating strong sustainability practices against globally recognised standards. “At PPG, we prioritise sustainability as a competitive advantage in our products and processes based on customer demand,” said Peter VotrubaDrzal, PPG vice president, global sustainability. “We are focused on enabling operational excellence and reducing environmental impact both in

our own operations and for our customers through sustainably advantaged innovations.” In addition to the FTSE4Good Index Series, PPG has been recognised for its sustainability efforts with an EcoVadis Silver rating and an AAA rating from MSCI. PPG is also listed on Barron’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies, the Corporate Knights Clean 200, Newsweek Magazine’s America’s Most Responsible Companies, and Newsweek Magazine’s World’s R Greenest Companies.

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SEM PRODUCTS

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SEM PRODUCTS

SEM performance

abrasives

If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t want to think twice about which abrasive is right for the job, you’ll want to get your hands on the new abrasives range from SEM Products – a PPG business unit. The new SEM Gold and SEM Scuff abrasives are sanding tool staples designed for everyday preparation and finishing jobs.

ll SEM performance abrasives offer consistent and high-quality performance without a hefty price tag, but each serves its own unique purpose in the workshop. Let’s take a closer look at the full lineup.

SEM Gold abrasives If you’re still using old-school technology for jobs like preparing surfaces for painting, removing old paint and sanding primer, now is the time to switch to SEM Gold abrasives. Made from high-quality aluminium oxide grains, a flexible latex-coated paper base and strong resin foundation, these abrasives are designed to cut faster, last longer and are ideal for aggressive sanding jobs. SEM Gold is available in 150mm 15-hole or no-hole PSA discs, which are suitable for use with orbital sanders. The 15-hole PSA disc grit options range from coarse P40 for stripping to ultra-fine P800 for blending, and everything in between (P60-P600).

Using 15-hole abrasives helps achieve maximum dust extraction when sanding, and will not only keep your workspace cleaner but also improve abrasive performance and extend the life of the disc. While the hook and loop backing makes them easy to change and reuse, the open-coat and load-resistant coating prevents clogging, which means better control when cutting. The SEM Gold no-holes option comes with a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) backing, which provides a secure hold and makes them easy to replace in a busy workshop. They also provide a flat surface to help achieve an even finish. Grits include P80, P120 and P240. Also in the SEM Gold range are the Perforated Grip Rolls, available in two handy options, including a 70mm x 12m and 115mm x 12m. These are best used with a block sander or when sanding by hand. Both come in four popular grits: P80, P120, P180 and P240.

SEM Scuff abrasives For those little nooks and crannies and hardto-reach places of profiled surfaces, the SEM Scuff abrasives really come into their own. They are the perfect solution for sanding in places your electric tools can’t reach, and they provide a quick and easy solution

SEM Performance Abrasive Snapshot SEM Gold Abrasives P40

P80

P120

70mm Perforated Grip Roll

115mm Perforated Grip Roll

150mm PSA Disc No-hole 150mm Grip Disc 15-hole

P180

P240

P320

P400

P500

P800

SEM Scuff Abrasives

for machine scuffing automotive finishes before painting. Contours, curves and awkward recesses can be hand-sanded with precision thanks to the Scuff’s flexible and three-dimensional fibre sanding material. Unlike steel wool, the nylon fibres won’t rust or splinter, so no nasty surprises. And thanks to the open-weave design that is load resistant, you won’t be dealing with a clogged-up sheet partway through a job. The Scuff range offers three versatile formats to suit different jobs. First up is the 152mm x 230mm Scourer Pad in maroon, featuring a very fine P360 grit. This is perfect for hand sanding. Then there’s the 150mm Scourer Disc, available in two grit levels: very fine P360 (maroon) and ultra fine P800 (grey). The Scourer Discs can also be used with orbital sanders, making them a practical addition to the range. Rounding out the product lineup is the 115mm x 10m Scourer Roll, which is also available in both P360 and P800 grits. These are a great option for cutting to size for either hand or block sanding.

Very Fine P360 (maroon)

Ultra Fine P800 (grey)

152mm x 230mm Scourer Pad

150mm Scourer Disc

115mm x 10m Scourer Roll

Please contact your PPG Distributor for more details on SEM performance abrasives, including SEM Gold and SEM Scuff product ranges.

What SEM have nailed in their new performance abrasive product range is cost-effective simplicity and versatility. They are ready-to-go solutions that perform across common workshop tasks. R

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PRIMER SOLUTIONS

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Primer In the refinish world, preparation work often plays second fiddle to the main act of painting, but now the SATAjet 100 B primer gun is getting its own show. Please welcome to the stage the special edition SATAjet 100 B Black, a sleek performer in premium black colour with red accents, available in reduced pressure (RP) 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0 nozzle sizes.

he flagship SATAjet 100 B has earned its place as a workshop staple, and now SATA is celebrating its popularity by launching a special edition spray gun with a World of Music-themed campaign. The campaign was inspired by the principle that even the best spray gun needs a colleague to lay the foundation. The SATAjet 100 B Black is more than just good looks. With its design and functionality modelled on the trusted 100 B, it comes with all the benefits that have made the original a fan favourite. Professionals understand that the best topcoat application and finish is only as good as its preparation work, and the special edition 100 B Black allows you to set a solid foundation.

Thanks to its wide spray fan and ultrafine atomisation (even at low inlet pressure), the SATAjet 100 B Black provides greater control and can be used for a range of applications. It allows primer to be applied in a smooth and continuous flow, even with high-viscosity materials. And that means less effort and time sanding. Combined with its ergonomic design, self-adjusting sealings and QCC-cup connection, this special edition gun is built for efficiency and comfort. To complement quality equipment, you also need to use advanced primer products, like PPG's Envirobase® High Performance LVP-565 Air Dry Primer. Released in 2024, this energy-saving primer can air dry in just 30 minutes at 20°C. With single visit

application and no requirement on humidity conditions for drying, you can speed up the drying process by using infrared technology or conventional baking if required. Darren Vojtek is the owner of Footscray Accident Repair Centre, located in West Footscray, Melbourne. It’s fair to say

that hands-on work is in Darren’s blood, and he was destined to own a workshop. With 20 years in the industry, he comes from a family of skilled tradespeople. “I’m a second-generation tradesman, says Darren. “My father is a spray painter, and my grandfather and brothers are all mechanics, so I come from a family of very fussy tradesmen.” Starting out as a one-person show, Darren has grown his business from a team of three staff repairing three to four cars per week to a team of six, plus parttime and contract staff, repairing 12 to 16 cars per week. And he still has his original staff working for him and prides himself on customer service. “I have the same team now as when I started; it’s the same formula. So, when customers come in, I can give them the same service and product every time. It might be a really old-school way of thinking, but I like to be one of these shops where our customers deal with the owner each time and get a really good product and a custom experience. It shows that someone really cares about you.” Darren has been a PPG customer since he went into business 13 years ago. "When I bought my business, it was a PPG shop, and my dad, who was a panel beater and spray painter, had always talked about PPG. He’s a big fan and I wouldn’t use anything else,” says Darren. He was one of the first PPG customers to adopt the Envirobase® High Performance

LVP-565 Air Dry Primer, and he says the product has changed the way his workshop operates. “We just wanted it. When we learned this primer was a 20-minute bake, we just knew it was going to be great for our workshop. Every Monday and Tuesday used to be chaos, because with traditional high-fill, we had to get the primer done on Monday so we had time to bake it and leave it overnight in case it developed shrinkbacks or ripples. You couldn't pull a vehicle out of the oven and then straight away block it and paint it.” “On Mondays, we’d be pushing the panel beaters to get the cars to the paint shop so we could get the primer done. It would be all hands on deck, and even I’d be in there blocking and getting dust all over me to meet our deadlines. But now, we don't have to worry about that, and we can prime and paint on the same day.”

Darren says that LVP-565 delivers the same quality finish as traditional primer. “If anything, it’s better than traditional primer, even though it is quicker and user-friendly. One would normally fear that anything quick would cause issues later, but this is an incredible product that has really helped my business.” At Footscray Accident Repair Centre, only SATA primer equipment is used to complement the high-quality PPG primer products. “I don’t mind spending money on products and equipment that you know will make your job easier and still deliver a high-quality finish. Having the right primer gun is as important as using the right primer. If the data sheet says to use this primer and this primer gun, then that is what we do. What I always say is that people have put a lot of time and research into these things, and you can’t go wrong if you follow the R data sheet.” Please contact your PPG Distributor for more details on the limited edition SATAjet 100 B Black primer gun and PPG Envirobase® High Performance LVP-565.

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SHOP PROFILE

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Success

and succession As Carl Francesca prepares to ease into a well-earned retirement, he is confident that he is leaving the 41-year-old family business in good hands to continue the successful legacy.

hings may have been a little simpler when Carl Francesca and his wife, Joanne, started West Perth Panel & Paint on 16th August 1984, but the fundamentals remain the same today. There are a number of key factors needed to drive long-term success, says Carl. “There is a motto in our office that says ‘customer satisfaction is the foundation of our success’. We are very fussy about the quality we deliver to customers, and we have a brilliant team that are given the time to do the job properly, and that is what I put our good name down to. At the end of the day, we have good customers, a good following and good staff, but I believe the key to a consistently successful operation is to understand the costs of running your business. These days, profit margins are getting eroded, so if you don’t understand your costs, you will fall behind.” Being located on the edge of Perth’s CBD is a good drawcard for the business, but it comes with a downside – the facility Carl purchased 41 years ago has a very compact footprint. Indeed, the workshop encompasses only around 850m² and the entire block covers just 1030m². To counter this, Carl has laid the shop out with almost military precision and ensured it remains neat and tidy day in, day out. Despite the age of the building, when customers look in, all they see is a spotlessly clean workshop that is operating at the peak of efficiency. “Over the years, we have actually won multiple national awards from collision industry trade magazines, and I put a lot of it down to how clean and tidy the shop is, as well as having procedures for everything

Left to right: David and Carl Francesca

and the right equipment, etc. The team has all the equipment they need, including two pulling benches and two spray booths. Not only are they trained to correctly use each piece of equipment, they also know to put it back when they are finished so the next person can easily find it.”

At 70 years old, Carl has enjoyed a long and successful career leading the team at West Perth P&P, but he recognises it’s time to take a step back and hand over the reins. “Up until 2024, I had two sons in the business – Mark joined as a painter around 26 years ago and David as a panel beater about 24 years ago. Last year, Mark decided to leave to pursue a career in photography, which is what he always loved. These days, David is Workshop Manager and we run the business together, along with Joanne and Tenika in the office. I still like what I do, and I still enjoy coming to work, but I am looking

forward to a bit of a break. We are working to a succession plan where David is now getting more shares in the business and taking more responsibility. Over this year and next, that will continue, and I will take a step back but be there to help if needed. At the same time, David’s wife, Rebecca, is training to take over Joanne’s role.” “As father and son, we lock horns from time to time, but we get over that. David has a completely different outlook than I do. For example, when it comes to dealing with an insurance company assessor, he has a very good approach. Where I might bite back, he just gets in and negotiates a solution. He is also very good at leadership and communication – probably better than I am. Every morning, he will go around and talk to the team members. We also run low-tech but effective communication tools, such as whiteboard messages, job trackers and a problem log.”

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SHOP PROFILE

PPG IN ACTION

Success and succession

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As local vehicle manufacturing faded and the local Perth city demographic began to shift, Carl deliberately altered the job mix away from ‘mum and dad’ cars towards prestige. “Because we are under the influence of the mining industry here in WA, many people are choosing to buy luxury cars, and we had to change with it. I have personally owned Audis, and I like the cars, so we put a lot of work into getting the Audi Approved Repairer badge, which we received in 2017. This means we have factory-approved facilities, specialist equipment and extensive training to offer the highest quality repairs for Audi and Volkswagen, and more recently, Skoda and Cupra. Until recently, we were the only Audi preferred repairer in Perth and, over the years, that has meant work just flowed to us, basically. Currently, our shop is full of Audis and other Volkswagen Group vehicles. Although there is an investment to be made and we have spent a lot of money on workshop upgrades and tooling, I believe choosing to specialise is one of the reasons this business has survived so well – I call it our ‘safety blanket’.” Despite operating in WA’s quirky labour market, West Perth P&P has a good spread of long-term staff amongst its team of 13 (including Carl and David). Over the years, Carl has also invested a lot of effort into putting as many apprentices through as possible. The mentoring process he put in place for apprentices seems to have helped accelerate their learning curve with virtually all of them winning some sort of industry awards in the process, including the PPG National Colour Matching Competition.

Along with building a team of skilled and knowledgeable tradespeople, Carl and David have also focused on the finer details of organising and equipping the shopfloor to make the compact space as productive as possible. “We work hard to support our team with things like access to the correct method of repair for each job, which are easy to follow. We have also accessed specialised training from vehicle OEMs, including aluminium repairs, etc. As the workshop floor leader, David has also completed his I-CAR Platinum qualifications.” Strong supplier relationships have also helped propel the business forward, including an enduring partnership with PPG.

S H O P FA C T S West Perth Panel & Paint Owners: The Francesca family Staff: 13 PPG Product: Envirobase High Performance Territory Manager: Simon Reynolds

“We have been with PPG for a long time – it would have to be more than 25 years! For us, Envirobase has been a very good product, especially for European cars, where the colours have been really good. The latest technology is also important, so we are using the new DigiMatch™ spectro and VisualizID™ 3D colour visualisation software, which has helped the paint team streamline the colour matching process. We are also looking at going down the path of getting support from PPG’s MVP Business Solutions team. With PPG, the brand is great, the people are really good to work with, and we get excellent service.” As he prepares to slip into retirement mode and get more time to tinker with his old motorcycles, Carl says he is really enjoying the opportunity to draw from his deep well of experience to support David’s enthusiasm for the business. “Probably the biggest challenge for the business is space. Whether we are able to buy the front section of the property or we move to somewhere bigger, it’s something we are looking into at the moment. This business has been my life for a lot of years, so it’s nice to have David, as a younger guy, coming through building up a skillset to ensure the business thrives, R just like I did.”

A little ray of sunshine The dedicated members of the Western Sydney University solar car 6.0 team are determined to push the performance boundaries, including with the superb PPG paintwork.

ince it was founded in 2012, the

sponsorship logos and names. In contrast to

Western Sydney Solar Team has established an enviable reputation for excellent results. This includes 2018, when it not only became the first team to represent Australia in the American Solar Car Challenge, but it actually won the prestigious event. Now the student-based team out of Western Sydney University is ramping up its program to tackle the 2025 running of the biennial World Solar Car Challenge (24th to 31st August). The team’s latest ‘racing’ car, Unlimited 6.0, is designed to travel from the start in Darwin, 3022km through the Australian outback to the finish in Adelaide using only the energy it’s able to generate from the sun’s rays. That means applying incredible attention to detail to every facet of the low-carbon-footprint design, including the slick, professional paint scheme, says Trevor Duke, PPG National Training Manager. “The carbon-fibre material the car is made from didn’t throw up any challenges – we have step-by-step processes that cover the entire preparation, priming, basecoat and clearcoat. The challenge was doing it in multi-colours and applying all the

many of the competitors who wrap their cars, everything is painted, which is more time-consuming but weighs less and is more streamlined, so it takes less energy to drive the car. Given the car is aimed at having a low carbon footprint, I think it’s also important that we use more sustainable PPG product technologies. For example, it

was primed with LVP-565 Air Dry Primer, followed by Envirobase High Performance waterborne basecoat and then finished with LVC-171 Rapid Performance Clearcoat. Although it was being done in Western Sydney Solar Team’s signature colours, we wanted to change it up a bit this year, so we added an Xirallic tinter. To make it as aerodynamic as possible, we sanded the whole car back to get rid of any lines or raised surfaces and then flowcoated it with LVC-171 with Xirallic in it. It really adds pop and sparkle in the sun and makes it look completely different to anything else out there. This year, the paint finish is next level, and it was great to see the excitement on the team members’ faces when we handed the car over. We can’t wait R to see it on the starting grid.” For more information on the World Solar Car Challenge, go to: www.worldsolarchallenge.org/

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CUSTOMER SHOWCASE

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plan and make the decisions, and that’s what happens. We’ve got the reins, and if it fails, we can only blame ourselves.”

Born from a desire to bring custom car shows back to their traditional roots, the Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo is now the largest event of its kind in New South Wales.

ndy Minas has been building highquality hot rods and custom cars since 1974. Through his business, Andy's Restorations in south-eastern Sydney, he has earned a reputation for expert craftsmanship and is a respected figure in the Australian custom car scene. But Andy's love of hot rods and custom cars doesn't stop at the workshop floor. After decades of attending car shows as both a judge and entrant, he decided to take things a step further. In 2014, he and his wife Donna launched what is now one of

Australia’s leading custom car events, the Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo. “Our first event had only a couple of thousand people attend. It was just mainly friends, relatives and owners of the cars,” says Andy. “Now, 12 years later, we're pumping 15,000 people through the gate.” But the role of event owner and planner was not one Andy ever expected to find himself in. “I never thought I'd be running the event, but when the Sydney Hot Rod Show came to an end, people asked me,

‘Why don’t I run an event’? I said no, I’m too busy with Andy’s Restorations, and it’s too expensive. But when I spoke to my wife, she said we could do it, and within 12 months from the Sydney Hot Rod Show’s last event in 2013 to our first one in 2014, we booked a venue, got a licence and insurance, and we had our first show.” The Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo takes place in May at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse in Sydney's west, bringing together the best of Australia’s car culture. The event attracts 300 entries from all over the country across all the judging categories, as well as international guests. American Charley Hutton, one of the custom car world’s most popular painters, once painted cars live at the event with Lowbake’s portable booth on a semi-trailer. The event also features display cars, a show and shine, motorcycles, car clubs,

a trade show, exhibitions, entertainment and more. “It's a family-friendly event, and there is literally something for everyone,” says Andy. “We have everything from live music and engine start ups to a kids’ corner with animals and face painting. We change it up every year. A fan favourite is Nostalgia Lane, a special section for classic cars, where entrants judge themselves. The best part about the event is that the weather doesn’t matter because it's all indoors, and there is free parking.” For an event of its size, you’d expect Andy to have a team of people working year-round to bring it altogether, but that's not the case. “Two people, myself and my wife, run the whole show. It takes us 11 months to plan everything, and we’re already gearing up for 2026. On the event weekend, we have around 20 volunteers helping with everything from looking after the gates to serving behind the counters and selling our t-shirts and merchandise. Since there are only two of us, it’s easy because we just make a

Andy is always looking for ways to improve and grow the event, making sure he brings something new to it each year. In 2026, the Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo will shift to a one-day format on Saturday 23 May, with extended hours to maximise the experience for visitors and exhibitors. The competition format will also get a shake-up with the number of trophies reduced to a carefully selected ‘Top 20’ to make judging fairer. Looking ahead, Andy has his eye on further growth. With access to an additional 5,000m2 of space at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, he’s already thinking about what else is possible in the future. “The long-term goal is to fill the whole venue. I'm thinking about maybe doing a Porsche exhibition in there, if I can find a sponsor to support it.”

Sponsors and partners are vital to the success of the event, and Andy says it’s all about building good relationships. “I’ve been around for a long time, and over the years I’ve made good friends with people who have all come through the trade. Since the beginning in 2014, PPG has always supported the event. They’ve never missed a beat. They always have a trade stand and really pump up the show.” But for Andy and Donna, the event is also about giving back. Over the years, the Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo has helped raise thousands of dollars for sick children. In 2025, the Sydney Kids Committee raffled a family holiday to Thailand and will return in 2026 with another exciting fundraiser. The Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo will take place on Saturday 23 May 2026, so mark it in your calendar now. For more information, visit: https://hotrodandcustom.com.au R

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FEATURE STORY

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More than half a century of local engineering and manufacturing has given Kenworth Australia a ‘superpower’ that has helped it become a perennial market leader.

Prime movers and shakers ‘A

ustralian Made. World’s Best.’ is not a Kenworth Australia marketing slogan that simply pays lip service to reality. In fact, the legendary trucking brand has been manufacturing locally since 1971. Fifty-two years later, in late 2023, the 80,000th locally built Kenworth rolled out of the manufacturing plant in the Melbourne suburb of Bayswater, and the site is now well on the way to reaching 90,000. The PACCAR Australia (Kenworth Australia’s parent company) facility originally encompassed 24 acres, but over time, has been expanded to take in around 53 acres today. It’s the same for the actual manufacturing facility. The three modest sheds where the story began are still there, but regular investments over the years have dramatically expanded the size, sophistication and capabilities for manufacturing and parts warehousing. At the same time, PACCAR Australia has invested heavily in developing a team of highly skilled people to ensure this world-class production facility hums with efficiency. When you take in manufacturing, engineering and support services, the site employs around 1,400 people. As well as catering to the Australian market, locally built Kenworths are also exported to New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

Superpowered connection to customers Around the globe, PACCAR operates nine truck manufacturing plants, along with several engine building facilities, which produce around 800 trucks per day. Although the Australian production numbers make up just a fraction of this, it’s the ability to locally engineer each model and then run them down a highly versatile production line that has drawn an exceptionally loyal customer base to the brand. It starts with the different environments the trucks need to operate in. For example, Australia has some of the most demanding road conditions of any country on the planet. Often, trucks are tasked with hauling loads over vast distances on bumpy, corrugated roads and through extreme heat, humidity and even talcum-powder-like bull dust. Kenworth also recognises there is no such thing as a standard freight task – each load and situation is unique. Where many brands offer an off-the-shelf, take-it-orleave-it option, you can think of a Kenworth Australia-built truck as a perfectly tailor-made solution, designed and built specifically for purpose, explains Marcel Hunt, Operations Director PACCAR Australia. “Our trucks are more than just manufactured locally – they are designed locally. Local design ensures that the product is a

reflection of the demands of the market, as well as the operating conditions prevalent in Australia. For example, the Australian market typically has significantly higher payloads, along with multiple trailer combinations – very few other countries in the world run multi-trailer combinations. In addition, they operate in an environment where ambient temperatures are higher, the distances travelled are much further, and the engine run time is very high. It’s not uncommon to find a prime mover that does 500,000km per annum with a multi-trailer set. Imported trucks are typically not designed for such high utilisation. They tend to reflect the needs of their home market, which means they often come with specifications not intended for tasks in Australia.”

Custom built flexibility While tailor-made is a solution customers love, producing that level of personalisation

can present real challenges on the production line. Thanks to military grade precision, meticulous production planning and incredible attention to detail, the PACCAR Australia production line is able to cater to a mix of virtually any model from the range and any configuration running line astern along the U-shaped production line together. As each truck progresses to each work station along the line, the crew is faced with something different. It could be something as simple as a component moved to a different location, or it could be something as complex as an entirely different model. No matter what is thrown at them, each of the skilled crews is able to automatically adjust and achieve extraordinary flexibility, as well as accuracy, according to Marcel. “Whilst the fundamentals of truck construction are the same, every PACCAR plant has process variations that reflect the needs of the local market. Volume is a key consideration, as is the level of customisation. Australia is a smaller market,

REFINISHER

FEATURE STORY

so our plant is lower volume, but at the same time, we are building highly customised vehicles. Our customers can option almost any feature onto a truck and it will be built. As a consequence, we are far more reliant upon the work of our people in order to achieve this high level of customisation. In many ways, choosing a Kenworth truck is a bespoke purchase.”

to 8,000 colours where PPG has supplied data to PACCAR Australia so it can offer its customers more choices. When robots are used to paint, we also support their paint team with programming for each individual colour application. And, because we know their operation so intimately, we are able to constantly work with the PACCAR team to introduce innovative new products and processes that further refine their painting process.”

Leaning on local suppliers

Prime movers and shakers

REFINISHER

A Kenworth truck from Bayswater is literally built from scratch. For example, each chassis is fabricated from raw steel and cabins are assembled from stamped panels, in some cases using robots. Depending on the model and specification, a Kenworth truck comprises around 60 per cent Australian-owned resources, brought in from more than 70 suppliers, and this helps to bolster local manufacturing, says Marcel. “We have a very broad local supply base that assists us in achieving our goals of being Australian Made. World’s Best. Having a local supply base means we are positioned very well to respond to whatever needs a customer has, and we can respond in a timely manner. This is not only for new trucks – the local supply base is also integral to supporting our trucks operating out in the market for many, many years after they have been built. We see the local supply base as an integral part of our success, and our success is also their success. PACCAR Australia and our supply base are in business together to promote ‘Australian Made’ and we are very proud of the contribution we make to the Australian economy.”

A GLIMPSE BEHIND THE SCENES

For the long haul

Colourful partnership

Specialised onsite support

One of PACCAR Australia’s longest partnerships is with PPG, which has been supplying the Bayswater site for around 50 years. Recently, this saw PPG singled out to receive the coveted Kenworth Overall Supplier of the Year award for the second time. It’s the epitome of a win / win partnership, according the Marcel. “The local office of PPG supports us in offering a truly bespoke product in the marketplace. We are one of the few automotive manufacturers, anywhere in the world, that will offer a selection of premium paint colours, including metallics, for not only the chassis but also the cabin. And we offer the cabin in a multi-colour arrangement – PPG supports us to make this a reality. In addition, PPG bring us to market with innovations in the quality of the paint as well as improvements in application and hardness. Without local support, many of these innovations would take longer and possibly face more challenging implementations. Locally, PPG are responsive to our needs, changes in demand or requirement in a way that an offshore office simply could not manage.”

PACCAR Australia’s paint facility is made up of eight spray booths, including a chassis booth, and application is via both robots and traditional hand spraying. Since 2016, PPG Key Account Manager, Mark Elliott, has been embedded with the PACCAR team at Bayswater. “In a perfect world, everything goes smoothly, but this is not a perfect world. That is why I aim to keep everything ahead of the game, such as always ensuring the right products are in the right place, at the right time. I am also the link between PACCAR and PPG support services, including the PPG Clayton R&D Laboratory and the Colour Laboratory. In terms of colour, there is something like 7,000

PG supplies almost 100% of the coatings used at PACCAR Australia’s Bayswater plant, and the majority of those are manufactured at PPG’s Clayton production facility. Recently, a number of PPG staff took the opportunity to tour the PACCAR Australia manufacturing plant, including Product Planners, Sonia McGivern and Jason Tran. “It provided the opportunity to see firsthand how the products developed and manufactured at PPG Clayton are directly applied in the production process at the PACCAR factory”, says Sonia. “It brought a tangible sense of accomplishment while also emphasising the importance of continuous innovation and quality assurance in our coatings to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry.” According to Jason, seeing the scale of PACCAR Australia’s operation gave real context to the hard work PPG employees put into the partnership day in, day out.

“Seeing our products ‘brought to life’ by being applied to such quality-made machinery is very motivating for my day-to-day role with the PPG supply chain team. I found the entire manufacturing process fascinating – I don’t think I will ever look at trucks the same way again.”

Whether it’s a quad road train hauling through the Western Australian outback, a K220 shuttling freight up and down the Hume Highway or a T320 operating around the Sydney suburbs, Kenworth has carved out a hard-won reputation for reliability and durability. Because virtually every part is available for any Kenworth that was built locally, since the very beginning – and many are ready-to-go on the shelf – the lifespan of one of these trucks is almost unlimited. This is why many of the more than 80,000 locally produced models are still running and why there is no reason a new Kenworth truck built today R won’t be still going strong in another half a century or more!

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TALKING TRAINING

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The popularity of pastel vehicle colours has highlighted an unexpected blending challenge. As a result, PPG has created a special process to get it done with ease and accuracy.

BLENDING pastel colours O

ver the past few years, the growing popularity of pastel colours has seen many vehicle OEMs add these fashionable types of finishes to their colour palette in an effort to attract customers to their brand. On the showroom floor, pastel colours didn’t appear to throw up any red flags for refinish technicians, but that all changed when accident-damaged vehicles began arriving at collision repairers, says Trevor Duke, PPG National Training Manager ANZ. “I think everyone thought these pastel colours were going to be nice and easy to deal with – until they started doing them! As they completed the refinish process, technicians were very surprised to see a dark halo on the end of the blends, which sounds really strange for a solid colour. If you were doing a job edgeto-edge and

you had the colour match and application right, the final colour was fine. However, this was not the case when it came to blend situations, and it’s due to something called ‘pigment floatation’.”

Pastel colours and pigment floatation A typical pastel colour features soft, muted tones, and this is essentially created by adding white pigment to the base colour. The more white pigment that is added, the softer the pastel effect becomes. Although they originally arrived on automotive colour palettes as clear-over-base solid colours, some vehicle OEMs are now coming out with pastel colours that include metallic particles. The greater the amount of white pigment in a pastel colour, the greater its impact on pigment floatation. This is a phenomenon that comes about due to the different densities of the tinters being used in the formulation. White is generally denser and heavier, while at the other extreme, black is typically less dense and lighter. As a result, the lighter pigments can migrate upward towards the surface of the coating, where they can create a colour variation, often seen as a halo at the back of the blend area. Pastel colours are also sensitive to the application technique, which then goes on to affect pigment floatation. Putting a pastel colour on too wet allows for a greater chance of pigment migration across the layers, resulting in a variation in colour. It’s also interesting to note that some pastel colours are more challenging than others, and this all seems to come down to the combination of toners used.

PPG developed pastel blending process The challenge with pastel colours comes when you get into a blend situation where the pigment floatation sits differently on the blend area. This is because, as we transition the colour into the blend area, the coating goes on lighter and, therefore, not as wet as on the main application area. To come up with a simple, easy-to-understand and follow solution, the local PPG technical team carried out extensive trialling with a wide variety of pastel colours. The result is a PPG technical bulletin that outlines a straightforward, stepby-step process that has proven to work really well in the field. The key component is a simple mixture of Envirobase T490 HP Tinted Clear Additive which is a clear binder basecoat that is reduced at a ratio and then added to the existing colour to be applied over the blend area.

Example Say you are tackling a typical job, such as replacing a front door and blending into the adjacent panels. When it comes to the basecoat, start by applying coverage over the replacement door with blends into the front door and the same into the front guard. Dry thoroughly. Then use a portion of the remaining mixed colour and dilute it with the Envirobase T490 HP Tinted Clear Additive blend mix for pastel colours. You can find the ‘blending mix for pastel colours, mixing ratio details on PaintManager® XI or PPG LINQ™

Color platforms. Use this diluted mix at a ratio of 50 per cent colour and 50 per cent blending mix for pastels to transition back over the blend areas on the adjacent panels and back into the colour – in this case, in towards the front door.

All the support you need Although the process for dealing with a pastel colour blend is quite straightforward, the PPG team is happy to support users with anything they might need. For a start, there is a comprehensive technical bulletin, which clearly outlines the correct step-by-step process to follow and achieve the required

result. If you would like some extra guidance, don’t hesitate to contact your PPG Territory Manager, who will be happy to help or get a Technical Demonstrator or Training Manager involved if necessary. Paint technicians can also take advantage of regular training courses at PPG’s network of regional training centres, which can also be eligible for I-CAR accreditation points. R For more information, contact your PPG Territory Manager or call PPG’s Customer Service Hotline 13 24 24 (Aust) or 0800 320 320 (NZ).

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CUSTOMER PROFILE

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Born in South Africa, built in New Zealand

Left to right: Ross White, Ken Hunter

When we first met Ken Hunter back in 2015, he shared his incredible self-made success story. Ten years on, things have gone from strength to strength for his New Zealand-based refinishing business.

en was searching for a better future for his young family when, in 2007, he packed up everything and moved thousands of kilometres across the world from South Africa to New Zealand, a country he knew little about. “All we knew about New Zealand was the All Blacks,” Ken laughs. “I’d also read there were no dangerous animals or snakes, so I worked with an agent and was here for only four days when I got a job offer and a visa. It was pretty quick and easy, and that’s how it all started.” A qualified spray painter and panel beater, Ken had always

aspired to run his own shop. Over a casual drink with his boss, that dream became a reality. “I was working for Ross White, and in 2009 while having a beer, I told him I had always wanted my own shop. He said, ‘Well, make me an offer’. I did. We came to an agreement, and I became the owner of Ross White Panel and Paint in 2012.” Ross White Panel and Paint is based in Taupoˉ on New Zealand’s North Island,

approximately 270km southeast of Auckland. The early growth of Ken’s business was fast, expanding from two small buildings and eight staff to four adjoining buildings and 12 staff within the first three years. By 2015, he had relocated his workshop to a 1,250m² building after outgrowing his original premises. Fastforward to 2025, and his business has doubled in size once again. “We are in a building that is 3,000m² with a parking area that is another 3,000m². So now we have 6,000m² of space in total and 30 staff.” Ken runs his operation alongside his wife, Sonja, and their two adult children. His daughter, Centine, manages reception and social media, while his son, Saxon, who is a qualified panel beater, is gradually taking on more responsibility. “Handing over the reins has been easier than I expected,” says Ken. “Saxon is doing a great job, and hopefully, he’ll take over the business one day.” Fittingly, Ross White, the man who gave Ken his opportunity in New Zealand, continues to work for the business. Now retired, Ross spends a few days a week in the workshop, not out of necessity, but because he genuinely enjoys it. “He’s part of the family and gave us a chance that no one else would,” says Ken. “Everyone always asks, ‘When will I change the name of the business?’, but I would never do that because it’s not an ego thing. When someone calls and asks for Ross, I still put the call through to him.” When it comes to capability, Ken’s workshop is built to handle just about anything that rolls, flies or floats through the door. When upgrading to his new workshop in 2019, Ken invested in spray booth infrastructure to meet increasing demand. “I’ve got two Seetal spray booths, a full downdraft and a semi-downdraft, and I had them made slightly longer. They are about 8.5m long instead of the 7.2m, so we’ve got a bit more space. “We also added a 20m-long by 5m-wide and 5m-high truck booth, and can paint four cars in there at any one time. I’ve also done a 14m crane in there and a helicopter, and we’ve started doing campervans and motorhomes. My target is to do around 50 vehicles a week, that’s cars, helicopters, boats and everything.” Ken’s connection with PPG runs deep, and long before he moved to New Zealand

That relationship with PPG also led to a unique

In addition to using PPG products in the workshop, Ken remains closely connected to the broader PPG community. He’s an active member of the PPG MVP Business Solutions Round Table Group, which brings together like-minded shop owners from across Australasia to share ideas, innovations, and business practices. “What I enjoy most is you get to hang around like-minded CUSTOMER PROFILE people, and you get to see how others are doing things and Ross White take away ideas Panel and Paint you can adopt Owners: in your own Ken and Sonja Hunter business.” Staff: 30

and became a business owner, he was a Regional Manager for PPG in South Africa. Ross White Panel and Paint remains a proud PPG customer today, PPG Product: Envirobase using a variety of products High Performance and systems to meet the Territory Manager: demands of modern-day Dave Mills repairs and specialist jobs. “PPG was always the product that suited my spray style. I stuck with it because it just worked, and I’ve never had a problem with it. In 2015, we switched to PPG waterborne products, which have worked well for us.” Ken has also invested in tools like the PPG DigiMatch™ Spectro, which his team use for smoother and faster colour matching.

opportunity in 2024, when the Supercars series raced in Taupo. ˉ With the track just two kilometres from his workshop, Ken offered up the premises for a PPG-hosted customer night. “We had eight Supercar drivers come along and about 100 guests in the shop. It was a great night. The drivers were fantastic, and the locals loved it.” It’s been an incredible journey for Ken and his family, starting from scratch in a new country to becoming one of Taupo’s ˉ most respected refinishing operations. Through hard work and a fanatical approach to customer service, Ken’s journey is a R standout success story.

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MVP BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Green Belt

LT G E B IN N E AIN E GR TR

champions When the MVP Business Solutions team floated the idea of running a specialised Green Belt training course in Tasmania, the response from local repairers was overwhelming!

ucked away, across Bass Strait from the mainland, Tasmanian collision repairers can be forgiven for feeling a little isolated. Despite this, there is a hunger for targeted information to help drive continuous business improvement, and that quickly became evident when talk turned to the highly respected Green Belt training course, says Mindy Roberts, MVP Business Solutions Manager Victoria / Tasmania. “One Tassie repairer was so keen, they were prepared to send team members to Melbourne for a Green Belt training course. Instead, I offered to put the feelers out in Tassie to see if anyone else might be interested. To be successful and really get the learning atmosphere going, you need a minimum of 10 participants, and we were not sure we would get those numbers. In the end, the response from Tasmanian repairers was outstanding, and we actually had 20 people signed up and eager to come along.” The multi-day course was run in the northern Tasmanian town of Devonport in May 2025 with Greg Tunks, MVP Business Solutions Manager ANZ, presenting alongside Mindy. Although it might be a little cliché, the philosophy behind Green Belt training is about learning to work smarter, rather than harder. However, perhaps the more poignant message, in this day and age, is to process more work with the existing staff you have, Greg explains. “Essentially, Green Belt training is about providing the tools to increase production without increasing the workload on staff.

At a time when it’s difficult to find skilled staff, this is a crucial element. Throughout the course, we challenge the participants to change their thought process. Instead of just doing things the same way they have been done for so long, it’s about analysing each aspect of production and thinking differently or thinking outside the square to come up with new and better solutions that fit into your individual collision centre situation. From a practical standpoint, Green Belt training is a powerful tool, but it’s also a very simplistic way of looking at your business and sometimes even goes back to basics in order to make sure we have the foundations of good business practices in place.”

The overall aim of Green Belt training is to introduce repairers to a range of practical information and proven strategies, such as 5S methodologies, eliminating waste, value stream mapping, X-Ray Repair Planning®, leadership and leading change and much more. Importantly, the course content is delivered in plain, simple terms that are easy for participants to understand. At the same time, links and connections are constantly drawn between the activities in Green Belt training and how they relate back to what happens on the workshop floor. One aspect of bringing like-minded people together is that it generates a Green Belt learning atmosphere, which tends to drive powerful group discussions, according to Greg.

“Apart from the Green Belt training information we deliver, there is a lot of interaction within the group. As they settle in, participants are comfortable asking questions and sharing information and experiences. This is particularly valuable when it comes to common industry issues, such as finding and retaining good staff, how to get staff involved in the process of ‘change’ and how to keep your team on track to achieving goals. We often find that there is a lot of good ideas out there. Whether they are a panel beater, a spray painter, a manager or a business owner, one viewpoint I try to emphasise is that everyone should think of themselves as a problem solver. Then, when the inevitable roadblocks or hurdles occur – let’s face it, these things happen every day – it’s about solving problems, as well as ensuring they don’t continually reoccur day after day.” Following an energy-charged Green Belt training course, everyone leaves with a real sense of excitement about taking what they have learnt and using it to make positive changes in their workplace. However, that is not the end of it. Afterwards, your local MVP Business Solutions manager will check the progress of each repairer along their individual transformation pathway and determine what support they need to ensure it becomes a continuous improvement strategy.

M S TA

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I N A

As well as receiving a full toolbox of knowledge, processes and practical solutions, there is an added bonus of completing Green Belt training – it’s a valuable way to earn points towards I-CAR Gold Class status. As the collision repair industry continues to modernise and upskill, I-CAR Gold Class status has not only become a badge of achievement and honour, but it has also seen some work providers make it a requirement. When it comes to attaining this prized accreditation, completing Green Belt training actually contributes significant points towards a repairer achieving I-CAR Gold Class. When it comes to laying the groundwork for a better business future, this R is a definite win-win! PPG’s MVP Business Solutions program is available as part of PPG’s comprehensive support package, and its aim is to help customers improve performance across the full spectrum of business activities in order to enhance profitability. Enquire at mvp.anz@ppg.com or contact your PPG Representative or PPG’s Customer Service Hotline 13 24 24 (Aust) or 0800 320 320 (NZ).

Gene Finn – owner FINN’S BODYWORKS, LAUNCESTON, TAS. “I believe that Green Belt training gives my employees a more in-depth understanding of lean principles and 5S methodologies that they would otherwise not get. They always return to work more engaged and in line with what we are trying to achieve as a business. At the same time, we always seem to implement a new idea or two that helps drive overall productivity.”

PPG PEOPLE 26

Nick Blake

P P G S TA F F P R O F I L E

Collision / CT Operational Product Manager ANZ

ook back over Nick’s interesting and varied career, and it seems an ideal preparation for his current role. A love for art and colour saw him begin a signwriting course, but when that didn’t quite cut it, he took up a spraypainting apprenticeship. After six years at a collision repairer, followed by four years as a painter at Bucher Municipal, Nick

was keen to give himself a new challenge by joining the Australian army, based in Townsville. Having spent five years scratching that itch, he returned to Bucher Municipal for a five-year stint as Paint Shop Leader. When it came time for another change, an ad for a PPG Customer Service Technician caught his eye.

“A key part of the role was giving overthe-phone technical advice. I enjoyed it, and five years went by very quickly, but then I jumped at the chance to take on this Collision / CT Operational Product Manager role early in 2024. In basic terms, it’s about maintaining PPG’s current refinish product lines, including Envirobase High Performance, Delfleet Evolution, Deltron, the Vibrance Collection, Autothane and OneChoice. I also play a key role in trialling new products and then going through the process of launching them to the local market. There are lots of challenges, but I wanted to really invest myself in the role and get to know the products inside and out. I like that I am not stuck to a desk, but I can get out and about and support the PPG refinish sales team. I pride myself on helping people, and I get a real sense of accomplishment when I can do that.” R

MORE ABOUT NICK • Favourite hobbies/pastimes? Gym is my stress release. Spending time with my young kids. • Favourite food? Steak. • Favourite drink? Lemon lime and bitters. • Favourite music / band? A bit of everything. • Favourite car / motorcycle? ’57 Chev Belair. • Favourite holiday destination? New Zealand and exploring Australia.

Connect. Automate. Digitise. The end-to-end digital ecosystem bringing advanced, game-changing technologies to your collision centre

Scan the QR code to see how PPG LINQTM can benefit your business! youtu.be/t4isZfVLwzw

Introducing the 3D digital sprayout

Compact, fast, easy-to-use spectrophotometer

This advanced, 3D digital colour visualisation tool smoothly interfaces with the next-generation PPG DigiMatch™ camera-equipped spectrophotometer to totally transform the user experience of selecting the best colour match formulation from PPG’s extensive library.

PPG’s high tech DigiMatch spectrophotometer features a digital colour camera to significantly boost performance. The camera’s six imaging angles combine with six reflective angles to provide additional texture information to help quickly and precisely retrieve the correct formula match.

Explore the PPG LINQ™ Digital Ecosystem. Visit PPGLINQ.com

REFINISHER

MIRKA POWER TOOLS

REFINISHER

Mirka DEROS RS 600 ®

The future of sanding technology Meet the Mirka DEROS® RS 600 – a rotary sander designed for heavy-duty, coarse sanding applications as well as general-purpose sanding on a wide range of surfaces. It’s the newest addition to the trusted DEROS® range of power tools. While you might have used Mirka electric sanders in the past, this is the first heavy-duty rotary sander of its kind to join the Mirka family, and it provides more power than ever.

Smooth moves, silent operator

he DEROS RS 600 is perfectly engineered for demanding workshop tasks such as sanding, stripping, and removing paint and composites. But don’t let all that muscle fool you; it performs all the heavy lifting with ease, proving you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for power. ®

Packed with power and lightweight The RS 600 packs a punch with 750W of power, but it’s also light on its feet, weighing in at just 1.8 kg. Its long-life, brushless motor is engineered for endurance and intensity, and with a 150mm pad diameter, you can power through demanding tasks.

Loud, clunky sanders are so last year. Offering very low noise levels and minimal vibration, the RS 600 hums quietly at just 61 dB and exhibits a vibration output of 1.6 m/s², resulting in less fatigue and greater precision. With a low 11.5cm profile, it retains all the hallmarks of the DEROS® power tool family that you’re accustomed to. It’s easy on the ears and even easier on your arms, designed with ergonomic features that make it comfortable to handle, even on the big jobs.

Smart speed control With an adjustable sanding speed of 700 to 2,500 rpm, this sander lets you stay in control no matter the material you’re working on.

A clearly visible LED rpm indicator ensures you always know what setting you’re on, and a slow-start function helps ease into action for delicate work. There’s a momentary switch (start button) feature for when you need short-burst operation and a lock function that allows you to run continuously without needing to keep the start button pressed.

Dust? What dust? Sanding can be messy, but the RS 600 keeps things clean with a specially designed shroud (sold separately) that guides dust directly into extraction channels. Combined with Mirka’s dust-free sanding system, this tool not only protects your lungs but channels dust away from your work surface.

Tech-savvy and ready to connect Yes, it’s a sander, but it’s also smart. The RS 600 is Bluetooth®-enabled and pairs with the myMirka App, giving you real-time vibration data and tool health and usage insights. The App is free to download from Google Play and the App Store and can be connected with all your existing Mirka power tools that have the Bluetooth connectivity feature. Sanding technology has come a long way from noisy, bulky machines that would shake your bones to today’s ergonomic, smart-connected Mirka tools. The RS 600 represents the next step forward in sanding technology, not just in power, but in how work is performed. With less strain, more comfort and greater precision, this isn’t just another power tool.

With its purposeful design, signature DEROS® profile, and compatibility with Mirka’s accessories like pad savers and shrouds, this sander definitely stands out R from the crowd. Please contact your PPG Distributor for more details on the Mirka DEROS® RS 600.

vs Refinish OEM same goal, Refinishers, on the other hand, rely on their skill and experience to hand-spray coatings and paint. They contend with the complication of performing their job in small workshop spray booths and working on complete vehicles with sensitive electronics and interiors. They also face the added pressure of perfectly matching colours to hundreds of different vehicle makes and models, which is where PPG technologies such as the PPG LINQ™ Ecosystem can come in handy.

different approach

When it comes to coating and painting, the end goal for both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and refinishers is the same. Application techniques Baking and curing process Achieve a smooth, flawless Let’s start with the application of coatings The way paint is baked and cured is critical finish and showroom shine. and paint. The environment, tools and to its appearance and longevity, and the techniques used to apply coatings at the product systems and processes in the Both are navigating the same factory couldn’t be more different from factory are unique compared to those on challenges: to lower emissions, those used in the workshop. the shop floor. reduce operating costs and OEM coatings and paints are applied in Traditionally, in OEM production, metal controlled environments that are designed to body panels are baked at 140°C for 20 improve turnaround times.

ut it’s the difference in application techniques, baking and curing processes and the specific paint systems used that make things interesting. From high-tech assembly lines to handson refinishing shops, how do global manufacturers and local repairers go about reaching the same finish from vastly different starting points?

deliver consistency at scale. Body coatings are typically robot-applied using rotary bell and electrostatic spray applications, then baked at high temperatures. Plastics such as bumpers generally require a low-bake, non-electrostatic application. Even with state-of-the-art technology, colour-matching between these two processes is complicated due to the distinct surfaces and application methods.

minutes to cure clearcoats made from acrylic resin and crosslinker (hardener) in one container, a formula that won't cure at room temperature. Because of this, OEM paints can be mixed in large batches and stored for future use. In the refinish world, painters work with complete vehicles, so they’re limited to bake temperatures of around 60–65°C. Anything hotter risks damaging interior components

or electronics. Older refinish systems require 60°C for as much as 40 minutes to cure, but newer PPG product technology, such as LVC-177 Rapid Performance Clearcoat from the PPG Envirobase® High Performance range, can air dry in as little as 20 minutes at 20°C. Refinish clearcoats use acrylic/ isocyanate chemistry, which reacts at room temperature, meaning they must be mixed just before use. There is no bulk batching or long shelf life here. Newer OEM systems are transitioning towards the use of acrylic/isocyanate clearcoats to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. For manufacturers adopting these new systems, it can often mean a significant investment is required to upgrade infrastructure. In some countries, such as the US, new buildings must comply with updated environmental and safety standards, which can add another layer of complexity and cost.

Evolving vehicle and paint technology It’s not just paint technology that is evolving. Advances in motor vehicles themselves are also influencing changes to paint technology. In recent years, we've seen the introduction of electric vehicles to our roads. With many of these vehicles using lithium-ion batteries, refinish paint can't be baked at high temperatures due to the risk of fire. This is where newer, low-energy products, such as those with a low bake temperature (40°C) or no bake (air dry at 20°C), are becoming more widely used in the refinish world.

OEM and refinish painting systems Many OEMs commonly choose PPG’s cutting-edge technology, including B1:B2™ and 3C:1B waterborne painting processes, which offer efficiency

and cost-effective benefits. PPG’s B1:B2™ Compact Paint System, developed by PPG's award-winning scientists, allows customers to reduce VOC emissions, energy consumption and associated CO2 emissions, while lowering initial capital and operating costs by eliminating the need for a standalone primer and its associated processing. This reduces the factory’s overall footprint and increases output. In pursuit of the same cost and energy-efficient solutions as OEMs, many collision repairers are now using PPG ENVIROBASE® High Performance, an advanced waterborne system that delivers better durability and best-in-class colour accuracy with OEM finishes. With a longer shelf life, accelerated cycle times, lower VOC emissions and easy application, it’s a cost-effective and R practical refinish system.

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COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT

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A scientific approach Taking advantage of its superb depth of know-how and craftsmanship, the team at Beavertail Trailers builds durable, functional products that customers can be proud of.

ecause there are basic techniques to follow, the task of designing and building a trailer can seem pretty straightforward. However, there is a lot that can go wrong if you don’t get the formula right, according to David Ure, Sales Manager at Beavertail Trailers. “There is a lot of science behind a good trailer design that does what the customer wants, does it safely and lasts long into the future. That is where the know-how within this business gives us an advantage. When a customer comes looking for a new trailer, we ask the right questions. For example, what are you looking to carry? How much does it weigh? Where is the load going to be placed? What is it going to be towed with? The more information, the better, to the point where we ask for photos, sketches and other detailed information. Once we have everything in hand, we can make any adjustments to the configuration, such as the location of the axles, to suit their

needs. After all the engineering work is done, the fabrication team on the workshop floor get specific CAD drawings to work with and make it happen.”

Room to grow Located in the city of Ballarat, about 115km west of Melbourne, Beavertail Trailers first threw open its doors in 1987. Over the years, the company passed through a couple of hands before the current ownership structure bought it around three years ago. This group of local directors have since set about investing in the operation to build on its reputation for producing rugged and reliable trailers that get the job done with efficiency. At the end of 2024, Beavertail Trailers moved from its previous facility, spread across two locations, into spacious nearby premises that have had an instant positive impact, David explains. “Compared with where we operated out of previously, our build times are literally cut in half from start to finish. The workshop floor team has more space, and a lot of the processes have been simplified for them. And, because everyone is now under the one roof where they can communicate freely, it’s easier for everyone to be on the same page and ready for the next step. From a management point of view, it really helps us maintain the

schedule and watch the entire process to ensure quality is spot on. Interestingly, as we have gotten quicker, the quality is actually improving, even from the high standard we had before. When it comes to quality, our trailers are proven in the test of time. For example, I have just delivered a new trailer to the Northern Territory Government in Alice Springs. They had a 20-year-old Beavertail Trailer which had spent much of its life going out bush into some pretty rough terrain ,and it was pretty much the only trailer they had which had not broken.”

PPG partnership Included in the new facility is a large blasting booth next to a spray booth big enough to take the longest trailers. It also continues the strong partnership that was established with PPG around 18 months ago, says David. “We pride ourselves on sourcing

local materials and being Aussie-built. Obviously, PPG manufactures locally and it’s a quality product, but the really good thing is the service we get from them. Jarrod Bickley (PPG Territory Manager) has been fantastic – if we need anything, he is onto it straight away. Although white and black are what most people choose, with PPG’s support, we are happy to try and match any colour for a customer – we have done trailers in pink, bright orange and Kermit green. Customers see colour and finish quality as being important because it becomes part of their image and branding.”

Beavertail Trailers take advantage of high-quality products from PPG’s Commercial Performance Coatings range. Mixed colour is supplied from the PPG Paint Powerhouse store in Ballarat, where Jarrod Bickley is based.

REFINISHER

COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT

A scientific approach

The pride of Ballarat

“At the start, we were able to set Beavertail Trailers up with products, processes and training, and we continually follow up to make sure they have the best solutions. They take advantage of BAR Barrierprime, which has good film-build and lays down smoothly over the blasted metal. Best of all, it doesn’t need sanding before topcoating, so they save a lot of process time. With 625 Polythane topcoat, they get a great finish and we are able to colour match it to virtually anything the customer wants.”

Innovation in the tail The company originally made its name with an innovative version of a ‘tag trailer’ it dubbed ‘beavertail’. Where most tag trailers have a flat deck that goes right back to the folding ramps, Beavertail Trailers introduced a deck that angles down at the end. With the ramps down, it creates a more friendly angle for loading equipment. These days, orders come in from all over Australia and, while the beavertail model is still the company’s bread and butter, customers can choose from a wide selection of models. This includes ‘pig trailers’ (where the axles are in the middle), ‘dog trailers’ (axles at either end), flat top trailers, crane trailers and 45-foot drop deck trailers. It means the production schedule needs to be nimble, says David. “Orders chop and change. For example, crane operators might be the flavour of the month, but next month it might be earthmovers. Then we might have demand for tri-axle trailers and, when that slows down, demand might rise on single axle trailers. It changes all the time

depending on what is happening in the marketplace. We have to continually adjust and keep our finger on the pulse of what is happening out in the industry around the country. For example, who is doing major roadworks and where, who has some sort of other project going on and what tenders there are coming up.”

Each Beavertail Trailer takes between three and five weeks to complete, depending on the model, and the 30-person team puts out around 250 trailers each year. Being located in Ballarat has few downsides and plenty of upsides, according to David. “There is easy access to main roads, an airport and the rail link is close by. Ballarat is also quite a hub for manufacturing, so there are a lot of skilled people. As a result, we have managed to source some really high-quality tradespeople who have been doing this type of work for a long time. They have exceptional knowledge of what works and what doesn’t on the production floor – some of them could do it blindfolded! That not only makes them quick and efficient, but they are also happy to teach apprentices or less experienced tradespeople. To support them as we continue to grow and expand, we need to make sure we keep everything structured. At the moment, we are spending a lot of time researching and working on our processes. That is not just throughout the workshop but also internally, in the office, to make sure it all works smoothly and try to eliminate any possibilities of where processes could breakdown. I really enjoy the process, from detailing the specifications with the client, right through to the physical product being driven off by a happy customer. That is my buzz, and I think it’s something all the guys and girls here get a R kick out of!”

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