Todd Luciano’s Post

GrayMatter Robotics has developed AI-powered robotic cells for high-mix manufacturing, offering advanced sensing, perception, and flexibility. In the July issue of Products Finishing, Scott Francis writes on how these solutions handle various parts and materials, adapt quickly to production changes, and ensure high-quality output. Enhanced safety features also make them a safer option for manufacturing environments. According to the company, "These cells can be easily reconfigured to handle different types of parts and materials and can be programmed to perform a wide range of tasks." The day of fully automated finishing (from rack-to-pack) is getting 1-step closer. You can read the full article right here: https://lnkd.in/gEx7NmSV #AIManufacturing #RoboticsInnovation #SmartManufacturing

Before you head into the holiday weekend, take time to reflect on the birth of American independence and while you're at it, grab a copy of the July issue of Products Finishing, the leading industrial finishing trade journal over the past 88 years. In this months edition, Scott Francis writes on an AI startup who offers automation innovations for high-mix, high-variability, manual surface finishing applications, Lori Beckman highlights Miramar Metal Processing, a 2024 Top Shop who made it's goal to become recognized as one of the best in the business, Travis Johnson from Cooperative Plating provides a platers approach to deciding which EN chemistry is the best choice, Robin Deal from Hubbard-Hall Inc. talks on how choosing the right equipment and understanding maintenance, lifespan and chemical impact for a wastewater treatment system is critical, the 2024 Parts Cleaning Conference is only 3 months away and we provide exclusive coverage on what you will learn at this years edition and much, much more. The printed copies are hitting the streets as we speak but if you absolutely CANNOT wait, just click here (we got you covered): https://lnkd.in/gu8BK_-F #SurfaceFinishing #Electroplating #LiquidCoating #PowderCoating #Anodizing #PartsCleaning MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions Veterans Metal Dürr Haviland Enterprises, Inc. Industrial Heating Equipment Association (IHEA) Axalta Giering Metal Finishing Inc JOMESA North America PAVCO, INC. Steelhead Technologies Saint Clair Systems ChemQuest Powder Coating Research, a division of The ChemQuest Group, Inc. Powder Coatings by AkzoNobel BYK-Gardner Instruments Matt Kirchner

Heath Walters' journey from mortgages to running a thriving powder coating business is truly inspiring. Lori Beckman, Senior Editor of Products Finishing, writes how he identified a gap in the market and successfully transitioned to creating a top-notch coating facility with a focus on customer service. “It just seemed like an opportunity to enter this market,” says Walters. His story is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability, which you can read right here: https://lnkd.in/gkc-EQpY #Entrepreneurship #CustomerServiceExcellence #PowderCoating

This past week, I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, the PGA TOUR's stop in Detroit. It was more than just assisting the RMC team in hosting a world-class golf event; it was a chance to connect with this vibrant community I called home for many years. What made it so special? The shared passion the many volunteers and spectators I met, who, like me, have a deep love for the game and a strong sense of Detroit pride. It also provided a fantastic platform to connect with local business leaders and broaden my professional network. I'm incredibly proud to represent the "D" at such a prestigious event, and I can't wait for the RMC25 next year! #RocketMortgageClassic #DetroitGolf #VolunteerLife

Wet blasting for coatings prep offers numerous advantages. As Chris Owen, from Vixen Surface Treatments Ltd mentions in the June issue of Products Finishing, "Wet blasting ensures a cleaner surface with minimal dust, improving coating adhesion." The technique not only enhances surface preparation, but also reduces environmental impact. It's a win-win for industries aiming for efficiency and sustainability. To read the entire article, just click here: https://lnkd.in/gc6EfrJu #SurfacePreparation #SustainableManufacturing #IndustrialCoatings

Mark Burger is #hiring. Know anyone who might be interested?

I had a great time in Minneapolis last week, spreading the gospel of Products Finishing to whoever would listen. One of the key meetings was at Sherwin-Williams General Industrial Coatings, where we had a productive discussion about their marketing goals for the upcoming year and explored ways our brand could assist them in achieving those goals. It wouldn't be a work trip without some fun, so thanks to Michelle Striggow, Angela Scavo Kokesh, Bob Bonsall, and Joel Lynch for hosting the annual Twin Cities golf outing, a chapter event of the Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI). It was a fantastic week up north, and I look forward to heading back! #IndustrialCoatings #MarketingStrategies #CCAI

As the Executive Director of the BRITISH VALVE AND ACTUATOR ASSOCIATION LIMITED, Rob Bartlett has been intimately involved in the valve & actuator community over in Britain for over 30 years. In the Spring issue of Valve magazine, brought to you by Gardner Business Media, Inc. and the Valve Manufacturers Association, Rob shares some insights into the latest initiatives happening over the pond and an update on regulations & standards impacting the EU. Interested in learning more? Just click here: https://lnkd.in/grZrASJB #IndustryStandards #ValveTechnology #ManufacturingExcellence

Switching from TGIC-based polyester powder coatings to TGIC-free alternatives is not only beneficial for health and safety but also ensures compliance with evolving regulations. In the June issue of Products Finishing, Kevin Biller writes on how this transition will support a safer work environment while maintaining high performance and durability in coatings. Embracing these innovative solutions reflects a commitment to sustainability, which is an important initiative for many within the powder coating industry. To read more about this important shift, just click here: https://lnkd.in/gdfGSNrK #SustainableCoatings #HealthAndSafety #PowderCoating

Straight outta Nati-lanta (that's Cincinnati for those not in the know), the Products Finishing crew just dominated SUR/FIN in the ATL! A big thanks to The National Association for Surface Finishing for another epic event - electroplating knowledge bombs were dropped left and right! In all seriousness, SUR/FIN never disappoints. We connected with industry family, learned a ton, and maybe even snuck in some peach cobbler in between sessions. Already counting down the days until Chicago next year! #SURFIN2025 #ElectroplatingEnthusiasts #CantStopTheFinish