Powder Coating Week 2004 Technical Conference April 14th

TECHNICAL CONFERENCE BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Click on presentation titles for complete descriptions.

TECHNICAL CONFERENCE
BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

2:00 pm

Session #3

ABCs of Implementing an Efficient Batch Powder Coating System(90)

John Sudges Midwest Finishing Systems, Inc.

Frank Mohar Nordson Corporation

Mike Withers Axalta Powder Coatings

There are many factors to consider when installing and running a powder system, with the initial design layout being at the forefront. Three field experts will explore different sizes and styles of pretreatment systems, dry-off and cure ovens, as well as powder booths and manual guns, all designed to fit your application needs. In addition, they will help you calculate overall footprint sizes to help you determine what system is right for your space and budget.

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

2:00 pm

Session #4

First Steps to Flawless Finishes – Pretreatment Pros Tell All

Improving the Sustainability of Your Pretreatment Process

Max George DuBois Chemicals

Improve the energy costs and spend of your pretreatment line! Learn how low temperature cleaners and zirconium can do just that.

Pretreatment Options for Small Shops, Manual Operations, Limited Space, Tight Budgets

Jeff Blain Circle-Prosco, Inc.

In this session we will discuss powerful pretreatment options for small shops, manual operations, and contexts requiring low water use. Need better performance? Tired of throwing labor into blast, sanding, or wiping parts down with acetone, but not to setup for a large multi-stage washer? Dealing with wastewater a challenge? Floorspace and budget constraints tying your hands? There may be lots of reasons traditional pretreatment approaches don't make sense. Come to this session to hear about technology developed with these challenges in mind.

Best Practices for Manual Pretreatment Applications

Kirk Beaster BASF/Chemetall

This presentation discusses the best practices recommended to provide consistent results when applying pretreatment using manual equipment. Using the best practices to develop the proper SOPs and conducting regular hands-on training is vital to providing consistent finished product quality. Cleaning, rinsing and conversion coating best practices will be presented for thin film (“zirconium”, non-phosphorus, etc.) processes as well as the conventional iron phosphate processes utilized in many facilities.

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

2:00 pm

Session #5

Going Green: Advancements in Sustainable Powder Coatings

Advances in GMA Acrylic Resins: Addressing New Challenges

Dehui Han Anderson Development Company

The powder coating industry continues to pursue advancements in environmental safety, energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and performance properties. GMA acrylic powder coatings are renowned for their excellent weatherability, chemical resistance, clarity, and surface smoothness. Novel approaches employing the use of GMA acrylic powder technologies such as low-temperature cure, polyester compatibility and gloss control will be discussed in detail to not only maintain the expected inherently high performance but to unlock potential of GMA acrylic technology to expand beyond current market spaces.

Advanced Bio-Circular Materials

David Marriott Arkema

Polyamide 11 (Nylon 11) thermoplastic powder coating, a 100% bio-based material from castor beans, can make a lasting contribution to reducing your carbon footprint, while ensuring an unparalleled lifespan. Castor grows best in marginal soils so it does not compete with food and takes advantage of the natural rainy seasons. This eco-responsible coating has demonstrated increased longevity, over 25 years, even in highly corrosive environments like sea water or chemicals. Replacement of coatings derived from fossil fuel with polyamide 11 based coatings leads to improved sustainability while maintaining high performance. These advantages will be illustrated by concrete examples/cases studies, emphasizing the “Life Cycle Analysis,” and sustainability aspects.

Furthering Sustainability in Powder

Sameer Shaikh Arkema

Those of us in the powder coating industry know our technology platform brings inherent sustainability benefits, but further innovations are needed throughout the value chain in order to keep this technology on the leading edge of sustainability. The powder industry is uniquely positioned to bring real, viable, and innovative solutions to facilitate circular economy advancements in the coatings market. This goes beyond the well-known VOC and waste reduction benefits of a powder coating to driving important improvements in terms of service life, energy consumption, and CO2 footprint. This presentation will discuss key advancements to achieve those ambitions, with a deeper technical dive into incorporation of rPET into polyester powder resin in appliance and office furniture paint formulations.

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

3:45 pm

Session #6

Batch vs. Automated Finishing Systems: Which is Right for You?

Nick Dawson Koch Finishing Systems

Frank Mohar Nordson Corporation

Jeff Blain Circle-Prosco, Inc.

Whether your company is looking to upgrade an existing powder finishing system or install a new one, identifying the proper method of processing parts will contribute to the overall success of your powder coating operation. This session will explore the main drivers of batch vs. automated finishing processes, how and when to introduce automation, and best practices for obtaining a higher throughput of products. With labor at a premium, companies aiming to improve throughput by increasing efficiency or adding automation will benefit from the cost-saving considerations outlined in this session.

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

3:45 pm

Session #7

Continuous Improvement for Personnel and Productivity

Writing Clear and Concise Job Instructions and Training Plans for Continuous Improvement

Ryan Allen Gema USA Inc.

With the current job market flex, companies need to look at their current and prospective labor resources. As industry works through forecasting, companies may need to shift personnel into positions to properly manage the business. Major factors to being successful in this venture include proper training and showing work force opportunities to advance within the structure. This presentation will show how to set up on-the-job training programs, document clear/concise operating instructions, and set milestones for growth potential.

Using Racks to Increase Part Density, Efficiency, and Productivity in Powder Coating Operations

Jeremy Davitz Magic Rack\Production Plus

Inefficiency often results when operators have inadequate instruction on how their parts will interface with the stages and components of their powder coating operations. Using the knowledge gained in the first portion of this session, this presentation will summarize methods for maximizing the return on investment in powder coating systems by using racking to increase productivity.

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

3:45 pm

Session #8

New Technologies

Presenters in this session are permitted to use product and trade names in their discussion as they are presenting new technologies to the industry.

OptiSpray All-in-One: Fusion of Electrostatics and Dense Phase Powder Delivery

Jeff Hale Gema USA Inc.

This new technology presentation will review Gema's new OptiSpray All-in-One unit. The OptiSpray All-in-One merges charging technology with the proven linear SIT dense phase powder delivery for straight-line powder transport through the pump in one very compact device. The unit allows a maximum coating performance and extends the application range significantly; covering high quality coatings, complex geometries and large area objects. OptiSpray All-in-One specifically targets users who are looking for high end performance and consistent coating results.

Enabling High Quality Finishes Using Heat Curing Sealers

Marie Borong Sika USA

Sika has developed a top-of-the-line heat-curing seam sealer designed to cure at temperatures between 190 - 230°C, while providing a Class A finish with a variety of powder coat chemistries. It can be applied on multiple substrates including aluminum, steel and galvanneal. This product was developed specifically for the power coating industry to improve end product quality and appearance. SikaSeal®-330’s innovative chemistry allows powder to electrostatically adhere to it and maintain flexibility after curing in the high temperature oven while not becoming brown or brittle.

Sustainable Stone-Effect Coating for Modern Architecture

Arturo Lugo AkzoNobel Powder Coatings

Stone-Effect coating, showcased on the LEED Gold-certified Ragon Institute building (MGH, Harvard, MIT) in Cambridge, MA, sets a new standard for sustainable innovation. This prominent research hub in infectious disease features aluminum surfaces with a stunning natural stone appearance, without the expense or complexities of using real stone. This coating fulfills the rising demand for stone-effect finishes across North America, offering a durable, eco-friendly alternative. Unlike natural stone, which deteriorates over time, this solution provides lasting protection free from harmful VOCs.

Silica-Based Alternative to PTFE Texturing Agents for Powder Coatings

Bernhard Resch Evonik Corporation

Keeping up with latest formulation challenges on sustainability and regulatory compliance, finding alternatives to PTFE texturing agents for powder coatings is a hot topic. PTFE has been the go-to product for creating fine-texture coatings, transforming irregular surfaces into attractive and wear-resistant finishes. This study reviews additive technologies which influence powder coating surface texture, benchmarking key coating properties, and highlighting a new sustainable texturing alternative.

Unlock Growth With Automation on the Plant Floor and Front Office

Jeff Halonen Steelhead Technologies

Staying ahead of the competition requires more than just hard work - it demands smart, streamlined operations. This presentation will explore how to harness the power of automation to elevate your job shop's efficiency and profitability. From financial analysis to quoting and operator instructions, learn how comprehensive automation solutions can revolutionize every aspect of your business.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

8:00 am

Session #9

All Aboard! A Journey Through the World of Powder Coatings

Steve Houston Vitracoat Inc.

John Cole Parker Ionics

Brian Korecky Bulk Chemicals, Inc.

This interactive session will take the attendee on a journey through the world of powder coatings. In this session the attendee will take a train ride with stops at certain locations where major components of the powder coating process will be discussed, led by the expert from each location. Once this session is complete the attendee will have the tools to optimize his/her powder coating operation.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

8:00 am

Session #10

Quality Control Tool Advancements

Precision Control of Exacting Coating Applications

Renee Basset BYK-Gardner USA | Paul N. Gardner Company

This innovative technology leverages ultrasound to measure pulse echo layer thickness, setting a global standard for high-resolution, multi-layer precision thickness gauging. It offers non-destructive, high-resolution measurements, enabling precise control by measuring every layer individually and simultaneously up to 5 layers on almost any substrate. This technology is crucial for applications requiring exacting standards, such as automotive and automotive-type paints, wind turbine blade protective coatings, steel coil coatings, shipping container anti-corrosion coatings, and more.

Leveraging New Digital Tools to Optimize Powder Coating Operations

Julia Haponski PPG

Powder technologies are evolving but so are digital tools to support businesses that use them. Discover the latest online tools to help streamline powder buying, order tracking, inventory management, in-field QC, color matching and accessing important technical information with just a few clicks.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

8:00 am

Session #11

From Raw to Ready: Powder Coating Production and Selection

Not All Powders Are Created Equal: What to Look for to Ensure Durability & Finish Quality

Kristin Bartlett PPG

Powder coatings are only as good as the sum of their parts. Learn the role that resins, pigments, crosslinkers and additives play in finish quality and performance. This session will highlight the importance of sourcing quality raw materials and what to look for when evaluating powders at various price points.

Powder Coatings – How They Are Made

Kevin Richardson IPCO

This presentation will focus on how powder coatings are made, and the various steps and equipment used in their manufacture. The discussion will follow the powder coating production process – raw ingredients, mixing, feeding, extruding, cooling, flaking, and milling. Also, details will be presented on the making of different powder types such as textured, gloss, and metallics. This session will include videos of the steps and equipment to give an interactive view of the process.

Evaluating the True Cost of a Coating: Using Applied Cost to Justify Product Selection

Matthew Rush PPG

The price performance of powder coatings involves more than just cost per pound. This session will review all the factors that influence the true cost, including the specific gravity (SG) of a coating and how it impacts transfer efficiency, application ease, and overall coverage. You will learn what information to look for on a technical data sheet to help calculate the real cost versus the purchase price.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

9:45 am

Session #12

Start to Finish: Mastering Equipment, Ovens, and Booths for Powder Coating Success

Get What You Ask For: Just Ask for the Right Equipment

Marty Powell Trimac Industrial Systems

You are ready to make a big investment in buying new equipment for your finishing system. Do you need to write a specification? How do you compare the vendors and select a trustworthy supplier? How do you translate all the technical jargon into real value for your company? Find out how to write the right specification the first time so you don’t waste time and money searching for a supplier.

Gas Catalytic Infrared: Hypothesis or Noteworthy Science?

Eric Bellon Vulcan IR Systems

This presentation will provide a lighthearted, science based delve into the plausibility of utilizing gas catalytic infrared to improve industrial heating processes, including the benefits of gas IR booster ovens when paired with existing or new convection lines. Information on conservation, the future of clean energy solutions and how current gas infrared ovens can be converted to use said future, alternate fuels will aso be discussed.

Help! I Am Ready to Install A New Powder Coating Booth & Guns, Now What Do I Do?

Jeff Hale Gema USA Inc.

Each year, new powder coating booths and guns are installed in new buildings erected on greenfield or brownfield locations as well as within existing active manufacturing plants. To assist individuals who may be in this situation, this presentation will outline some of the tools and actions that are commonly overlooked leading up to and during and installation process. This presentation will provide some tips and advice to help make the installation process a success.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

9:45 am

Session #13

Grounded for Success: Conquering Powder Coating Gun Techniques

A Ground Fanatic’s Approach to Powder Coating

John Cole Parker Ionics

Attendees will learn the foundation of why a good earth ground is paramount to successful powder coating. They will also learn the many modes of failures attributable to a bad ground. Good, better, and best scenarios will help attendees understand where they currently are and what they must strive for when it comes to part grounding.

Best Practices for Manual and Automatic Gun Settings

Dan Bowens Nordson Corporation

The presentation will include best practices for the following topics: first pass transfer efficiency, coating defects, manual and automatic application techniques, how to overcome faraday cage, understanding the corona field and voltage and air settings.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

9:45 am

Session #14

Powder Coatings: Versatile Solutions for Unique Surfaces

UV and Powder Coatings Working Together to Solve Customers Needs

Michael Kelly Allied Photochemical LLC

Both UV coatings and powder coatings offer excellent coating solutions for end-customers, but in today's manufacturing environment, single-type coating operations can cause bottlenecks/inefficiencies. North American manufacturers are always looking to increase efficiencies, especially with renewed reshoring efforts, so a dual-coating strategy is more practical. An example is to off-load coating operations that require high-speed linear coating and/or high-volume discrete pieces to UV coatings process. Several cases studies will be presented.

New Developments in Powder Coatings on Wood-Based & Other Heat Sensitive Substrates

Mike Knoblauch Keyland Polymer UV Powder, LLC

With lower cure temperatures and advancements in powder coating technology, the market for powder coating wood-based substrates continues to grow. Powder coating is not only a viable solution for finishing MDF, medium density fiberboard, but a variety of hardwoods and softwoods including birch plywood, oak, maple, and other heat sensitive materials. These include composites, plastics, carbon fiber, assembled products. This presentation will discuss advancements in both powder formulations and application technology. It will cover the sustainability, productivity, and performance of powder coating on wood-based and other heat sensitive substrates. The presentation will show the energy cost, time saving, and environmental benefits of UV cured powder coating.

A Real-World Look at the Advantages of Fast-Cure Powders

Matthew Rush PPG

Are you looking for faster line speeds, lower energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint? Fast-curing powders might be the answer. Join us to review the productivity, sustainability and cost benefits of these newer powders that cure in less time and at lower temperatures than standard powders. Learn about cure curves and how to use them to maximize oven time and energy efficiency and how these powders can accommodate substrates of varying thicknesses.

Registration

PCI is hosting four separate events in Orlando during Powder Coating Week 2025 (Powder Coating 101 Workshop, Custom Coater Forum, Powder Coating 2025 Technical Conference and Powder Coating 2025 Tabletop Exhibition) and each event has a separate registration fee. We are offering discounted combination fees to attend the Technical Conference with either the Powder Coating 101 Workshop or Custom Coater Forum.

Note: The Powder Coating 101 Workshop and Custom Coater Forum registration fees alone do not include admission to the Technical Conference. Admission to the Tabletop Exhibition is included on Monday evening only for Custom Coater Forum attendees not registered for the Technical Conference. Powder Coating 101 Workshop attendees may visit the tabletops on Monday evening and during lunch on Tuesday only.

See the Combination Registrations below for available discounts.

If you are registering 3 or more people, please contact PCI at 859-525-9988 about the availability of a group discount rate.

View the Registration Brochure

Two-Day Technical Conference Registration (April 15th & 16th)

End Users of Powder Coatings & PCI Member

$725

End Users of Powder Coatings Non-Member

$925

Member Exhibitor

$695

Non-Member Exhibitor

$750

Non-Exhibiting Supplier to the Powder Coating Industry

$2,500

Two-Day Technical Conference Fee Includes:

Admission to any Technical Conference session on April 15th & 16th
Admission to the Tabletop Exhibition on April 14th & 15th
Continental breakfast, refreshment breaks & lunch for the duration of the Technical Conference on April 15th & 16th
Access to Technical Conference presentation link

Tabletop Exhibition Only Registration (April 14th & 15th)

See the Schedule of Events for Tabletop Exhibition Hours

End Users of Powder Coatings & PCI Member

$325

End Users of Powder Coatings Non-Member

$395

Non-Exhibiting Suppliers to the powder coating industry may not register for the Tabletop Exhibition Only (see Two-Day Technical Conference registration)

Tabletop Exhibition Only Fee Includes:

Admission to the Powder Coating 2025 Tabletop Exhibition on April 14th & 15th
Tabletop Exhibition receptions on April 14th & 15th
Lunch on April 15th

Powder Coating 101 Workshop Registration (April 14th & 15th)

Member

$725

Non-Member

$830

Workshop Fee Includes:

Powder Coating: The Complete Finisher's Handbook 5th Edition ($120 value)
Continental breakfast April 14th & 15th
Refreshment breaks on April 14th & 15th
Lunch on April 14th
Admission to the Tabletop Exhibition and Reception the evening of April 14th & Tabletop Exhibition Lunch on April 14th
(it does NOT include admission to the Technical Conference nor the Tabletop Exhibition and Reception on the evening of April 14th )
Workshop handouts
Certificate of Completion

NOTE: This does not provide admission to the Powder Coating 2025 Technical Conference. You must register for the Technical Conference in addition to the Workshop. See the Combination Registrations available for discounts.

Custom Coater Forum Registration (April 14th)

Member

$175

Non-Member

$275

Custom Coater Forum Fee Includes:

Admission to all Custom Coater Forum Sessions
Refreshment breaks on April 14th
Lunch on April 14th
Admission to the Tabletop Exhibition and Reception on April 14th

NOTE: This does not provide admission to the Technical Conference nor the Tabletop Exhibition on April 15th. You must register for the Technical Conference & Tabletop Exhibition in addition to the Custom Coater Forum.

See the Combination Registrations available for discounts.

Combination Discount Registrations

Save 20% when you register for the Two-Day Technical Conference & PCI Powder Coating 101 Workshop OR the Custom Coater Forum!

The discounted prices listed below will automatically be applied during the registration process when you select one of the two combinations listed below:

Two-Day Technical Conference & Powder Coating 101 Workshop

End Users of Powder Coatings

PCI Member $1160
Non-Member $1404

EXHIBITING SUPPLIERS

PCI Member $1136
Non-Member $1264

NON-EXHIBITING SUPPLIERS

PCI Member $3225
Non-Member $3330

Two-Day Technical Conference & Custom Coater Forum

End Users of Powder Coatings

PCI Member $720
Non-Member $960

Group Registration Discounts

Send three or more people from the same company and take an extra 10% off each registration fee.

All must register together (use ADD ANOTHER REGISTRANT) to receive the group discount. Please contact Leslie Muck at 859-525-9988 for the group discount promo code.