In this conversation, our hosts, Mark, George & Tej discuss the implications of the Republican trifecta in government, focusing on regulatory changes, energy policy, and the anodizing industry. Joined by Charlie Simmons, a legal expert, provides insights into the expected executive orders and cabinet picks under the new administration, emphasizing the potential rollback of previous regulations and the impact on environmental policies. The discussion also touches on the future of energy, including the role of nuclear power and artificial intelligence in shaping energy demands. The conversation delves into the implications of leadership changes in the energy sector, particularly focusing on Chris Wright's role at Liberty Energy and his stance on energy policy. It transitions into discussions about the Labor Department and OSHA regulations, highlighting the proposed heat injury prevention rule and its potential impact on workplace safety. The dialogue further explores the evolving landscape of intellectual property within the anodizing industry, particularly in relation to new technologies and regulations.

Takeaways

+ The Republican trifecta will significantly influence policy direction. + Executive orders are expected to reverse many previous regulations. + Energy policy will shift towards fossil fuels under the new administration. + AI's demand for energy will drive changes in energy sourcing. + Nuclear energy is gaining attention as a reliable power source. + The anodizing industry may experience regulatory changes affecting operations. + Cabinet picks will play a crucial role in shaping environmental regulations. + The sue and settle practice will likely be banned again. + There is a growing interest in reprocessing nuclear fuel to reduce waste. + A balanced energy portfolio is essential for future sustainability. Chris Wright is a significant figure in energy policy. + Expect deregulatory changes under the new administration. + Robert Kennedy Jr. may push for new health regulations. + The Department of Labor's role is crucial in workplace safety. + OSHA's proposed heat injury rule may face legal challenges. + Employers must be proactive about heat safety measures. + Intellectual property developments are crucial for the anodizing industry. + New patents are emerging for non-Chrome 6 substitutes. + The anodizing industry is adapting to regulatory changes.

About The Alumnium Anodizers Council

The Aluminum Anodizers Council (AAC) is the international trade association of firms engaged in aluminum anodizing and whose mission it is to support members and users of anodized aluminum through education, advocacy and promotion.

AAC is a progressive and influential industry force, a reputation proudly earned through years of dedication, commitment, and involvement by its members. Members gain exposure to non-members and potential customers through the AAC brand.

https://www.anodizing.org/

In part one of a two part series, Mark, George & Tej sit down with Anne Deacon Juhl and discuss the anodizing industry, exploring her journey, visionary perspectives, unique expertise, and the challenges and opportunities within the field. We delve into the importance of education, sustainability, and customer relations, while also addressing misconceptions and defining what makes a world-class anodizer. This discussion highlights regional variations in practices and emphasizes the need for a more open and innovative approach to anodizing. In this conversation, the crew discuss the significance of collaboration in the anodizing industry, the increasing involvement of women, and the technical aspects of pulse anodizing. We explore how pulse anodizing can enhance efficiency and energy savings, while also engaging with the next generation of professionals eager to learn and innovate in the field in part two. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of pulse anodizing, discussing its benefits, the Scandinavian optimization process, and the importance of consistency and education in anodizing operations. We explore the readiness for implementing pulse anodizing, the translation of lab recipes to production, and the value of being part of anodizing organizations. Our discussion emphasizes the need for a structured approach to anodizing to meet customer demands and improve efficiency.

About The Alumnium Anodizers Council

The Aluminum Anodizers Council (AAC) is the international trade association of firms engaged in aluminum anodizing and whose mission it is to support members and users of anodized aluminum through education, advocacy and promotion.

AAC is a progressive and influential industry force, a reputation proudly earned through years of dedication, commitment, and involvement by its members. Members gain exposure to non-members and potential customers through the AAC brand.

https://www.anodizing.org/

For 25 years my professional life has centered around aluminum and anodizing. 

Anodizing has great advantages.

Firstly, it is the most sustainable surface finish of aluminum out there.

Secondly, anodizing (when done right) can make aluminum parts last a lifetime. A benefit to both you, your customers and the environment.

And thirdly, anodizing can make your products, buildings, airplanes etc. look beautiful.

I’ve seen almost everything that can go wrong in the anodizing process, or when you order parts from an anodizer and haven’t gotten your specifications right. 

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annedeaconjuhl/

AluConsult - A Knowledge-based Company AluConsult is an engineering consultancy company that was set up by Anne Deacon Juhl, on 1st March 1999. During her first assignment, she joined one of the leading Danish companies specializing in anodizing, where she was employed for three years, as Quality Assurance & Development and Research Manager. In order to accomplish AluConsult's vision, i.e. to become a competent, professional sparring partner assisting the aluminum industry, Anne Deacon Juhl decided to devote all her time to AluConsult as from Summer 2002. Since then, she has been involved in highly stimulating aluminum projects, international networking and a wide array of activities which have familiarized her with the companies operating in the aluminum industry. To be internationally involved a move to San Diego, California was done during the period 2008 - 2009. Here AluConsult LLC was started in order to create value for our clients through knowledge and openness. After 10 years of consultancy for AluConsult, Anne Deacon Juhl, worked fulltime as ME and Supervisor for the Surface Treatment department at Terma Aerostructure. Here new knowledge and a lot of great hands on experience was gained with chromic acid anodizing and chemical milling of aluminum, passivation of stainless steel, which were all some of the processes done by Terma Aerostructure. Now back in business as fulltime consultant for the world wide aluminum industry Anne Deacon Juhl wants to fulfill her life mission to help companies use aluminum at its optimum.

https://aluconsult.com/

In this episode of ANO-talk, the official podcast of the Aluminum Anodizers Council, hosts George, Mark & Tej give us a detailed preview of the upcoming 33rd Aluminum Anodizers Council Annual Conference in Cleveland October 1st-3rd. This years exciting theme, "Anodizing: The Rockstar Finish," ties into Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Gain insights into ths years program's lineup, including technical sessions on wastewater treatment and pulse anodizing, leadership talks, and the integration of academic research with industrial applications. The episode also emphasizes the value of AAC membership renewal and the networking opportunities available at the conference.

Listeners are encouraged to attend the conference, whether they're seasoned anodizing professionals or newcomers to the industry, with the promise of valuable learning experiences, networking opportunities, and a touch of fun with the "rockstar" theme.

For more details visit: www.anodizing.org

George Oh & Judy Runge join Jason Weber of the AEC to discuss their upcoming Anodizing Essentials Workshop at this years ET'24 event in Orlando. For more details visit: ET In-Conjunction Workshops | Aluminum Extruders Council (aec.org)

8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Fee: $495 AAC members / $895 nonmembers Instructors: AAC member anodizing experts

Anodizing Essentials is part of the Aluminum Anodizers Council's (AAC) "School for Anodizers" that teaches more than the fundamentals of anodizing. This one-day class is designed to increase the knowledge and ability of anyone involved in operating an anodizing line. Anodizing Essentials Class details the foundation of quality anodizing, taking the learner through the entire process - beginning with the metallurgical properties of aluminum alloys commonly anodized through to the final rinse and sealing processes.

The program is designed to benefit anodizing production personnel at every level-from the line operator to the production manager, particularly if they are new to the business. Workshop topics include:

• Anodizing Overview and Anodizing Video
• Metallurgy Basics for Aluminum Surfaces
• Racking
• Cleaning & Rinsing
• Etch, Desmut & Bright Dipping
• Anodizing Basics for Aluminum Surfaces
• Power - Rectifiers & Transformers for the Aluminum Surface Treatment Industry
• Dyeing & Electrolytic Coloring
• Sealing the Anodic Oxide

Tin Electrolytic Coloring with Pinakin Patel 

Electrolytic (or two-step) coloring is one of the most durable metal coloring methods on the market, even outperforming paint. Electrolytic coloring is primarily used on extruded aluminum parts for the architectural (store front), and automotive trim industries due to its durability. Our hosts Tej Patel of Techevon LLC and George Oh of Quaker Houghton discuss the process of tin electrolytic coloring with Pinakin Patel, owner of Techevon LLC, a global anodizing chemistry supplier in Chicago, IL. Electrolytic coloring, as noted by our hosts, is a combination of “science, sorcery, and luck”. Pinakin describes the basic science and history of electrolytic coloring and colors available for aluminum anodizing. One of the biggest advantages of electrolytic coloring is its light- and weather-fastness. In this episode, Pinakin focuses on the tin electrolytic coloring method and specific equipment, chemicals and processes that need to be considered to ensure consistent color. 

Pinakin Patel on Mid-Temperature Sealing 

Our hosts, George Oh of Quaker Houghton and Tej Patel of Techevon, talk with anodizing industry expert Pinakin Patel, owner of Techevon LLC, a global anodizing chemistry supplier in Chicago, IL. Pinakin explains what mid-temperature seals are, the types of mid-temperature seals, his patent on sealing of aluminum oxide, nickel-free mid-temp seals, types of surfactants and how they interact with sealing methods. Comparison of different sealing methods to mid-temperature seals and its environmental impact. Be sure to join us at the 2023 Anodizing Conference on October 10-12 in Bellevue/Seattle, Washington. Learn more at www.anodizing.org/AnodizingConference where Pinakin will also be speaking. 

2023 Anodizing Conference Preview

George Oh of Quaker Houghton and Co-Chair of the AAC Education Committee, Tej Patel of Techevon, and Mark Spencer of AaCron Anodizing talk with AAC President Jeff Henderson about what to look forward to at the 32nd Annual Anodizing Conference & Exposition, October 9-12, 2023 in Bellevue/Seattle, Washington. Listen to this episode to get a feel for what to expect, what you’ll learn, and how you will benefit by joining us at the 2023 Anodizing Conference. Visit www.anodizing.org/AnodizingConference for program and registration details.

Heavy Metal-free Dyes 

Mahe Chandrasekaran, Chemical Engineer with Techevon, LLC, joins our hosts George Oh, R&D Senior Chemist with Quaker Houghton and Tej Patel, Director with Techevon, to discuss which heavy metals show up in the anodizing industry, heavy metal-free dyes, why use metals in dyes compared to metal-free dyes, which heavy metals are used in dyes for the anodizing industry, and the advantages and disadvantages for each dye type.  They also discuss the types of colors one can get using various dyes for aluminum anodizing. To hear more of this type of educational content, be sure to attend the 2023 Anodizing Conference & Exposition on October 10-12 in Bellevue (Seattle), Washington. Visit www.anodizing.org/AnodizingConference for program and registration details. 

The Environmentally Friendly Anodizing Line

Rob Pawson of Haviland Products talks with Mark, George, and Tej about creating an anodizing line that is environmentally friendly. PFAS regulations, dealing with other city, state and federal water regulations, the cost for installing scrubbers, and solutions for water discharge treatment are covered. Rob discusses how chemical manufacturers are continually coming up with more environmentally friendly solutions—from non-nickel seals and spray rinses to metal-free dyes—to help anodizers reduce water use and reduce the environmental impact of wastewater discharge.

Promoting Careers in the Anodizing Industry

Kevin Janis, Business Development Manager for Reliant Aluminum Products, talks with hosts George Oh and Mark Spencer about his career path versus his expectations, challenges in hiring for the anodizing industry, what might attract young people to the industry, doing more to share information about the beauty of anodizing, and more.