ECOAT 2020
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Agenda

All Sessions
Speakers

Tuesday, April 19

Pre-Conference Events
7:00 a.m. - Registration & Information Open
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.  Golf Tournament (optional with additional fee)
8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.  Boot Camp Program - Day 1 (optional with additional fee)
For those new to e-coat or who could use a refresher, this will help set the stage for the next two days of technical presentations and panel discussions. Start with the technology and equipment basics, and continue with the ECOAT Boot Camp 201 Learning String on Wednesday. Learn more
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.  Welcome Reception
Start the Conference off right by meeting and mingling with other attendees over cocktails and appetizers.

​Hosted by:
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Wednesday, April 20

Group Sessions and Panels
7:00 a.m.  Registration & Information Open 
7:30 a.m.  Leadership Breakfast ​(optional with additional fee)
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Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, IIoT and Finishing

Matt Kirchner, ATS / LAB Midwest

Many finishers are under a threat they don’t even recognize.  In the next 10 years Industry 4.0 technologies like AI, ML, Digital Twins, Blockchain, Additive Manufacturing, 3D Scanning and others will totally upend every sector of the economy.  Those that don’t begin adopting these technologies now will likely no longer exist in ten years.  The Fortune 500 each have hundreds of people whose sole responsibility is to prepare their business models for this disruption.  Many finishers don’t even see what’s coming.

In this provocative, fascinating and entertaining presentation, author, podcast host and business leader Matt Kirchner will explain AI, ML and Industry 4.0 in a manner understandable by anyone He will then make 11 predictions for how the world of ECoat will be disrupted, and will provide a roadmap for how finishers can prepare for the future. 
Learn more

Admission to this event is a separate item in the registration process and has an additional fee.
8:00 a.m.  Group Breakfast
9:00 a.m.  Opening Comments & Keynote Presentation 

10+2 Years Later - What Has Changed and What Does Change Look Like in the Future?
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Jeff Oravitz, CEO, Seal For Life Industries


​Resurgence in manufacturing, growth of economies, improvements in employment, business health, and standards of living have occurred. Challenges with trade friction, income inequality, aging workforces/limited availability, concern for climate change, and now COVID-19 have been headwinds. All of these shape the environment for coatings and Electrocoat in particular. 
Learn more
​10:15 a.m. - Break
10:45 a.m.  Panel Discussion:  Considerations When Increasing Production
Moderator: 
​Gary Orosz, PPG


Panelists:​ 
Brad Andreae, Therma-Tron-X
Rob Schiller, BASF
David George, Henkel
David Myers, Modine Manufacturing
​Scott Yaeger, FAST International
Bert Stocker, Controlled Power Company

Topics:  Paint, Pretreatment, Systems, End User/Operati
ons, UF/Anodes, Rectifiers 
Learn more
12:00 p.m.  Industry Awards Banquet
​Recognizing the industry contributions of dedicated individuals is an ECOAT tradition. Enjoy a formal, plated lunch and help us honor the 2022 George E. F. Brewer Award and End-User Participation recipients. Awards from the Golf Outing will also be presented.
Learning Stations:  1:30 - 5:20 p.m.
Sessions run concurrently, with a 10-minute break between each. Select a Learning Station tab to access session titles and links to complete details.
  • Process Control/Maintenance
  • Sustainability
  • Management in Today's Smart Industries
  • Boot Camp 201
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1:30 p.m.  Rectifier Basics, Maintenance and Troubleshooting
John Bougneit, JP Tech

Learn how rectifiers are used in Electrocoating, proper maintenance techniques and tools, and how to quickly troubleshoot problems. Tank connections and safety will also be discussed. 
Learn more

2:10 p.m.  Anode Cell 101: Selection, Sizing and Best Practices for Standard and Exotic Anode Cells
Lucas Sinnott, Synder Filtration

This presentation will offer a comprehensive overview of anode cell use in ECoat industry, from selection and sizing to best practices and preventative maintenance. Learn more
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2:50 p.m.  How Industry 4.0 Delivers on its Promise for Electrocoating​
Frederick Hess, UFS Corporation

​Industry 4.0, believed to be the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is comprised of four pillars: 
1. Connectivity, data, computational power
2. Analytics and intelligence
3. Human-machine interaction
4. Advanced engineering

We will look at how the four pillars will integrate into our future E-coat Systems. Learn more


​​​3:30 p.m.  Impact of Oven Gas Makeup on the Cure and Surface Properties of Prototype E-coats
Lee Steely, PPG

This study examines the impact of gas makeup from the combustion of gas fired oven on the cure of ecoat. The driver for looking at these gases was to show how robust the coating appearance was in the presence of combustion of gas mixtures. Learn more


4:10 p.m.  Monitoring, Expected Life and Planned Maintenance of Anode Cells
Bert Stocker, Controlled Power Company

By utilizing the proper anode monitoring techniques, coaters/metal finishers can determine the expected life of their anodes and better plan for maintenance of their system to prevent quality issues with the coating and unexpected downtown resulting from anode degradation. Learn more

4:50 p.m.  Improving Performance and Efficiency of Pretreatment Chemistry Through Process Analytical Technology
Kraig Kmiotek, Metrohm

The audience will learn how analytical techniques such as titrations, photometric analyses, direct measurements, and near-infrared spectroscopy can be automated for real-time process control of E-Coat baths. The audience will be able to identify where Process Analytical Technology can be deployed to improve performance and efficiency within their process. Learn more
1:30 p.m.  Waste Water Recovery and Reuse from Electrocoat Rinse Waters
Kirsten Kulik & Scott Yaeger, FAST International

There are several operations where rinse water in both pre and post treatment are discharged to centralizes waste treatment. This presentation will provide an option using Spiral Tangential Flow Membranes to recover and reuse this wastewater reducing waste treatment and city water usage. Learn more
2:10 p.m.  An Innovative Approach to Final Rinse Operations in E-coat Systems Using Membranes
Ben Weaver, Solecta Membranes

The presentation will discuss a novel approach for the final rinse process that can help coaters reduce fresh water consumption, reduce operating costs and meet sustainability goals. A practical example of this approach will be shared. Learn more
2:50 p.m.  New Advancements in the Design of the Spiral Wound Elements
Kirsten Kulik & Scott Yaeger, FAST International

Since the development of spiral wound element, there has been continuous advancements in membranes. Although membrane technology is constantly improving the spiral wound element design has not. This presentation will provide new examples to advance the design of the spiral wound element, increasing membrane effectiveness and increased production of permeate. Learn more
3:30 p.m.  RO Reject Water Recovery and Reuse Using Waste Heat and Membrane Distillation
Scott Yaeger, FAST International

Membrane distillation is a process where water contaminated with dissolved solids is evaporated across a membrane barrier creating clean water without the dissolved solids. The process uses heat to drive the evaporation and is a major part of the cost of this process. Waste heat can be low-cost driver. Learn more
4:10 p.m.  Innovative Membrane Solutions for the Automotive Industry
Mark Rizzone, Koch Separation Solutions 

​Attendees can expect to learn what membrane solutions are, how they work and how innovation in the membrane filtration industry can be applied to cost-effectively meet end user needs in electrocoat, pretreatment, water and wastewater treatment. Learn more
1:30 p.m.  E-coat Lines in the Smart Industries
Javier Navarro and Silverio Leandro Jr., Erzinger Industria' Mecanica

Erzinger has developed Ecoat lines along the last twenty years providing solutions for their customers. At this presentation the attendees will be able to know how it’s possible to make big improvements with simple technologies. In this presentation we will show our system “Smart in Line'' developed for smart industries. Learn more
2:10 p.m.  AI Machine Learning Application to E-coat Process
Nan Wei, John Deere

Attendees will learn AI and machine learning concepts, a data centered management of a machine learning project, the training of a machine learning model, and the verification of a machine learning model.  The power and limitations of applying machine learning to E-coat process will also to discussed. Learn more
2:50 p.m.  E-coatonomics: Costs and Options to Optimize Ecoat System Operation, Efficiency and Profitability
Chuck Orr, ​Axalta Coating Systems

Determining the cost of electrocoat is more than just multiplying the part area by the cost of paint and chemical per square foot.  There are many options that must be considered to maximize the E-coat system’s potential. Learn more
3:30 p.m.  Impact of Transformation Technologies 4.0 in the Surface Finishing Industry
Pedro Castillo, Therma-Tron-X Inc.

This session will discuss the impact that disruptive transformation technologies 4.0 bring to the surface finishing industry, and the effects on operations, commercial efforts, competitiveness, economic life of capital equipment, organizational culture, governance, education, IT security, among other perspectives. The advance of disruptive technologies at a global level. Learn more
4:30 p.m.  I Want To E-coat, Now What?
Suresh Patel, Chemetall, Rob Schiller, BASF & Todd Turnock, George Koch Sons

Learn about assembling the appropriate team of suppliers and choosing the appropriate pretreatment chemistries and ecoat to achieve your desired performance. Learn more
Optional with additional fee.
1:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.  Process Control​​
Brian Phillips and Dan Rose, Axalta Coating Systems

This session discusses the importance of charting results of operating parameter changes to effectively evaluate changes in your process performance over time. Parameters such as voltage, temperature, conductivity, P/B, pH, and UF flux rate are considered along with how deviations from the norm can wreak havoc on your system. Learn more
2:25 p.m. - 3:10 p.m.  Testing
 Jonathan Quick, BASF

Three main categories of performance criteria are reviewed: appearance, physical properties and durability, including weathering and corrosion resistance. Testing methods for various defects will be presented. Learn more
3:20 p.m. - 4:05 p.m.  Preventative Maintenance
Jonathan Quick, BASF

Following a discussion of general preventive actions that can be taken to avoid problems with equipment, we venture into more detail on the circulation system, anolyte system, UF systems and e-coat oven. The discussion will turn to bacteria - how to remove and keep it out of your system. Learn more
4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.  Process Contamination
Sarah Sisley, PPG Industries

This session looks at the troubleshooting process and how you begin to look through your system should you experience a flaw. We will examine some common defects on actual panels/parts and contemplate others that are not as common. Learn more
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​5:30 p.m.  Exhibit Night

After a long day of learning, it's time to kick back with industry suppliers in a no-pressure, fun atmosphere. Discuss your product and process issues with sales professionals who have the knowledge and tools to improve your system or help you evaluate a new one.  Enjoy food and beverages amongst decorated salons and tabletops...you might even be treated to some themed entertainment.  This supplier-hosted evening is an attendee favorite and sets ECOAT apart from other conferences.

Thursday, April 21

Group Sessions & Panels
7:30 a.m. - Registration & Information Open
8:00 a.m. - Group Breakfast
8:30 a.m. - Opening Comments & Keynote Presentation 
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Transformation is the Only Thing that is Constant
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Peter Votruba-Drzal, Global Technical Director of Corporate Science and Technology, PPG

Today's business environment demands continual adaptation and transformation to meet customer expectations. Share in the experiences and reflections of an industry leader who has, and continues to, actively participate in this transformational period.  Learn more

9:30 a.m. - Break
10:00 a.m.  Panel Discussion:  Preventive Maintenance / Troubleshooting for Your Ecoat Line
Moderator:  
Ken Kaluzny, Quaker Houghton


Panelists:​  
Dan Rose, Axalta Coating Systems
Tom Neeley, George Koch Sons
Suresh Patel, Chemetall
Michael Ratliff, PPG Coating Services
John Bougneit, JP Tech

Frederick Hess, UFS Corporation

Topics:  Paint, Systems, Pretreatment, End-User/Operations, UF Learn more
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11:30 a.m. Group Lunch
Learning Stations:  12:30 - 4:20 p.m.
Sessions run concurrently, with a 10-minute break between each.  Select a Learning Station tab to access session titles and links to complete details.
  • Equipment/Material Handling Considerations
  • End User Perspectives
  • Corrosion and Technology
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12:30 p.m.  A New Approach to Material Handling Through an E-coat Line
Joe Laubenthal, Therma-Tron-X Inc. 

A new flexible, automated, cutting edge material handling innovation could transform your idea of an electrocoating line. Battery powered, individually programmed vehicles run wirelessly on simple I-Beam without chain. It is modular, scalable, efficient, and designed with safety in mind. Learn more
1:10 p.m.  ECOAT Masking Innovations & How to Avoid Costly Mistakes
Cliff Shepard, Echo Engineering 

In this presentation, we'll cover the basics of masking for ecoat processes, how to avoid costly mistakes, and some of the more innovative masking projects we've developed over the years. Learn more
1:50 p.m.  Finishing Beyond the System
Daniel Davitz, Prism Strategy and Design 

Attendees will learn about special hook designs developed to solve common problems encountered on E-Coat lines including: grounding, part control, drainage, and parts without holes.  Optimum parts racking solutions, and efficient parts handling, will also be discussed. Learn more
2:30 p.m.  In-house Chemical Paint Removal: The Ideal Choice for Hook and Rack Cleaning
Michael Burbey, Atotech & Joe Wildenberg, Therma-Tron-X Inc. 

The removal of unwanted cured paint from part racks, hooks, and fixtures is often outsourced due to the hazards associated with conventional methods.  With the proven team-approach by Therma-Tron-X and Atotech USA, LLC, new process improving efficiencies can be gained by bringing paint removal in-house. Learn more
3:10 p.m.  Part Design and Racking Efficiency
Isiah Haley, Production Plus Corp. (Magic Rack)

We will discuss how to utilize racking and hanging solutions to maximize line space and increase part density, how to become more efficient using off-line loading, and how to re-think hook designs for improved grounding and less parts lost in the tank. Learn more
3:50 p.m.  Electrocoat Oven: The Final Frontier
Robert Hart, Axalta Coating Systems & Chris Stammer, Therma-Tron-X Inc.

There are numerous electrocoat oven types, designs and concepts available. How do you choose an oven? How is an oven maintained? Why do ovens get dirty? These questions, oven basics and the chemistry behind curing will be explained. 
Learn more
12:30 p.m.  Applied Costs of Electrocoating
Michael Walsh, PPG Coating Services
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This is an updated discussion of The Electrocoat Association's "Applied Costs of Electrocoating: Considerations and Calculations" brochure. Specific examples will be examined. Learn more
1:10 p.m.  E-coating is an Electrifying Business
George Lovell, Lippert 

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The Electric Vehicle Market is electrifying on all fronts. Several conferences ago our industry was struggling with the downturn in the economy. Jeff Oravitz was a Speaker/Moderator, and he made a comment that resonated with me. “Our E-Coat Industry needs to follow the Money”. True then and True Now. Learn more
1:50 p.m.  E-coating Units and Assemblies with Mixed Metals Construction
Thiru Munisamy, Raytheon Technologies 

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Challenges of E-coating of mixed metals units and assemblies, Mixed metals design considerations for e-coat, Critical E-coat process parameters for uniform coating thickness on mixed metals, Issues and troubleshooting during the e-coating of mixed metals units and assemblies. Learn more
2:30 p.m.  The Culture Fix
Chuck Gault, Max Coatings

A company's core values, properly defined and properly promoted, can serve as the foundation for having a company culture that promotes team member engagement and success.  This presentation will define the steps we have taken at Max Coating to make our core values a part of our daily routine. Learn more
3:10 p.m.  What Are You Doing With Your Maintenance Today to Prepare for Tomorrow?
Ben Hill, Brose

We have all heard and experience the many technological changes occurring by Industry 4.0. This paper explores the questions to ask yourself when determining how to implement these changes. Learn more
12:30 p.m.  E-coat for High Profile Substrates
Kelly Moore and Amy Harrison, ​PPG

E-coat has been overlooked as a coating solution for high profile substrates due to limitations in film build capabilities and the ability to cover a rough, high profile substrate.  This presentation details new advances in electrocoat technology which make it possible to be a superior solution for these applications. Learn more
1:10 p.m.  Advantages of Hyper Nucleating Zinc Phosphate Systems Over Traditional Titanium Based Zinc Phosphate Systems
Brian Anderson, PPG
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Attendees can expect to learn more about the zinc based rinse conditioners and how their impact can change their zinc phosphating process for the better. Learn more
1:50 p.m.  Neutral Descaler Rust / Scale Removal Process for Mixed Metals
Mike Kripl & David George, Henkel

Recent trends toward the use of light-weighting substrates combined with increased corrosion performance requirements in the automotive industry have led to the development of neutral descalers. The application, technology and benefits of neutral descalers for rust and scale removal (specifically in weld areas) will be reviewed. Learn more
2:30 p.m.  Novel Magnesium Pretreatment Coatings Offering Excellent Corrosion Protection
Lyanne Valdez, PPG

Magnesium alloys show promise for automotive, industrial and aerospace applications due to their low density, high strength-to-weight ratio, good machinability and low cost. These alloys have the potential to lighten cars and aircraft, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. A major drawback to the use of magnesium alloys is their highly reactive nature and tendency to corrode. As a result, most existing pretreatment systems for these alloys require the use of chromium, which is increasingly coming under regulatory pressure, as a corrosion inhibitor. Through a project funded by the Department of Energy and administered by the U.S. Automotive Materials Partnership (USAMP), PPG developed chromium-free metal pretreatment solutions for ZEK-100 and AZ21 magnesium alloys, coupled with tin-free electrocoat. In a major technical advance, several chromium-free cleaning and pretreatment processes were developed that offer excellent corrosion protection when compared to a typical automotive pretreatment systems. These pretreatment solutions were optimized for use in multi-metal applications: compatibility with magnesium and other metals was demonstrated without the need for additional process steps.  Learn more
3:10 p.m.  The Use of Electromagnetics to Remove Weld Balls from E-coat Process Streams
Mark Milhous, ​Milhous Company & Scott Ray, Milhous Company

Electromagnetic Fluid Filtration (EMF) has been used in various industries for decades to remove iron particles from process streams. Recently the Milhous Company's EMF has been explored, tested and accepted as a viable method within the multilevel filtration process of E-coat systems. Learn more
3:50 p.m.  Advancements in Gas Metal Arc Welding Technology for Improved Silicate Performance
Taylor Dittrich, Lincoln Electric & Anthony Nagy, ​PPG

Increasing automotive requirements for improved corrosion life on frames and chassis components have created a challenge for OEMs and suppliers to improve corrosion resistance of painted welds.  Lincoln Electric has developed a new weld wire and PPG has created a pretreatment process to properly prepare parts on production lines. Learn more
Group Keynote Presentation & Closing Comments
4:30 p.m.  To Manage or To Coach, That is the Question
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Amber Carlson-Hays, President, Archway Learning Solutions

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In this session, you will learn the differences between managing and coaching, assess your coaching mindset, learn the SMART+ method of setting positive goals for employees, understand the Do’s and Dont’s of providing verbal feedback, and review powerful coaching questions that expand learning and open fresh perspectives. Learn more
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